In this IELTS map sample, also sometimes considered as an IELTS plan, you have to compare the layout of a park in 1920 with today.
Organizing by the Features
When you write about an IELTS map or plan, you should make sure you mention all the features shown.
You could start by describing fully the first map then move onto the next, as is the case in this IELTS task 1 map. However, another way it to do it by the features (the items you see in the map).
This is an IELTS map sample where the latter organization is used, and each feature is discussed in turn.
Now take a look at the model answer.
IELTS Map Sample
| You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. The plans below show a public park when it first opened in 1920 and the same park today. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant. Write at least 150 words. |
Model Answer
The map compares Grange Park in 1920 with the current time. Several features have moved, but the main change is the development of an amphitheater, a water feature, and the removal of the fountain.
Looking at accessibility, the park kept its two original entrances on Arnold Avenue and Eldon Street that have been there since its opening in 1920, but on today’s map, we see they have added underground parking for cars off of Eldon Street as well.
In 1920 they chose to have seating placed all around the edge of the park, while the updated map shows that seating has now been concentrated around the central park feature. The same is true of the multiple rose gardens that the park originally featured which have now been concentrated into one central rose garden, with only one left in its original location.
They kept an entertainment area in the same location in the west of the park, though it has been upgraded from a stage to a full amphitheater. The park’s water attraction, formerly a pond with water plants in the northeast corner, has moved and is now a water feature where the glasshouse once stood.
While today’s park no longer features the central fountain, it does now include a cafe and children’s play area for visitors to enjoy, along with plenty of open space around the features.
(228 Words)
Evaluation of the model answer
Task Achievement: Band 7.5
The response provides a clear and concise description of the changes to Grange Park over time. It accurately identifies key transformations, such as the development of the amphitheater, water features, and the removal of the fountain. However, a few more details about minor changes, such as the movement of seating and the layout of the rose gardens, could enhance the completeness of the report. Additionally, more specific figures, like the exact location of the cafe or play area, would improve the depth of the description.
Coherence and Cohesion: Band 8
The response is well-organized, with a logical progression from one aspect of the map to another. The use of cohesive devices such as “while,” “though,” and “in the same location” helps guide the reader smoothly through the comparison of the two maps. The structure is clear, and the flow of information is well-maintained throughout the description.
Lexical Resource: Band 7.5
The vocabulary is appropriate and varied, with accurate use of terms such as “amphitheater,” “central park feature,” and “rose gardens.” There is some repetition of basic phrases like “kept” and “moved,” which could be replaced with synonyms for more variety. More advanced terms could be used to describe changes more vividly, but overall, the vocabulary effectively conveys the information.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 8
The grammatical structures are varied, with a good mix of complex and simple sentences. The passive voice is used correctly to describe changes in the park’s layout. There are no major grammatical errors, and the overall grammatical control is strong. Minor stylistic improvements, such as avoiding repetition in sentence structures, could raise the overall fluency of the response.
Overall Band: 7.5
This response is effective in describing the changes to Grange Park, with strong coherence and good grammatical control. To reach a higher band, the report could include more specific details, a wider variety of vocabulary, and slightly more advanced grammatical structures. Nonetheless, it is a well-organized and accurate account of the map comparison.
Leave a Reply