With IELTS map writing, you often have to describe how a map has changed over a period of time.
If you have two maps, one from the past and one from the present day or just later in time, then you need to make sure that you describe each one and refer to each feature that is evident on the maps and how it has (or has not) changed.
For IELTS map writing, an important language when it is something like a city, town, or region, is the language of location, such as ‘north’ or ‘southwest’ etc.
Task 1 Map Sample (Before and After)
| You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. The two maps below show an island, before and after the construction of some tourist facilities. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features and make comparisons where relevant. Write at least 150 words. |
Model Anwer
The maps illustrate the changes that have occurred on an island due to the building of facilities for tourists.
The island originally consisted of just palm trees and the beach, yet now, although the palm trees remain, it hosts a wealth of attractions for holiday makers, from restaurants and swimming to accommodation.
The island is approximately 200 meters long, with a small beach on the western tip. It was deserted before, with only a scattering of palm trees. Now though, there is an abundance of places to stay in the form of fifteen beach huts situated in circular patterns in the centre of the island and to the west.
Between these two sets of accommodation, there is also a new large restaurant and a reception building, both served by new vehicle tracks. Situated in the south is a t-shaped pier for ships to dock, and sailing boats are now evident in this area of the sea. Footpaths have also been constructed, which traverse the island, leading to the new buildings and also the beach, where tourists can now swim.
(177 Words)
Evaluation of model answer
Your description of the map comparing Grange Park in 1920 with its current state is clear and provides a well-structured comparison of key changes. Here’s a detailed evaluation with some minor improvements:
Tone and Content: Band 8-9
- The description effectively highlights the major changes, including the development of new features like the amphitheatre, water feature, and the removal of the fountain.
- You’ve provided a good level of detail, making it easy to visualize the differences between the two maps.
Coherence and Cohesion: Band 8
- The description is logically organized, comparing the park’s past and present features in a clear and accessible way.
- However, there is some repetition in phrasing, particularly with the use of “concentrated,” which could be varied for better flow.
Language and Grammar: Band 7-8
- Apostrophe mistake: In the second paragraph, “kept it’s two original entrances” should be “kept its two original entrances” (without the apostrophe).
- Repetitive phrasing: The word “concentrated” is used twice in quick succession. You could rephrase the second use, for example: “The seating has now been focused around the central park feature.”
- Article use: “Off of Eldon Street” could be simplified to “off Eldon Street.”
- Punctuation: The last sentence has an extra period after “features.”
Task Achievement: Band 9
- The task is well-fulfilled, with clear descriptions of the park’s key changes and how the features have evolved over time.
- The summary at the beginning efficiently captures the main differences between 1920 and today.
Suggestions for Improvement:
- Avoid repetitive language. Instead of saying, “seating has now been concentrated,” you could say, “seating has now been centralized.”
- Fix minor grammar issues, particularly the apostrophe and punctuation mistakes.
Overall Evaluation: Band 8
This response demonstrates a strong understanding of the changes in Grange Park and presents them clearly. With a few minor adjustments to grammar and phrasing, it could be even stronger, but overall, it’s a high-level answer.
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