IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Overview

Types of Visual Data

• Pie charts
• Line graphs
• Bar charts
• Tables
• Maps
• Diagrams

Task Requirement

• Describe and summarize information from visual data.
• Write at least 150 words.

Key Assessment Criteria

1. Task Achievement

   • Identify the main features and make comparisons.
   • Provide a clear overview of trends, differences, or stages.
   • Use synonyms and paraphrasing effectively.

2. Lexical Resource

   • Use precise and varied vocabulary.
   • Employ uncommon and appropriate words.
   • Show collocation ability (e.g., "do your best").
   • Minimize spelling and word formation errors.

3. Grammatical Range and Accuracy

   • Use complex structures with minimal errors.
   • Apply correct punctuation.
   • Use a variety of grammatical structures.

4. Coherence and Cohesion

   • Organize ideas logically with clear structure and paragraphs.
   • Use cohesive devices to link sentences smoothly.

Strategy for Writing

Task Analysis

• Identify key elements and overall purpose.
• Develop a clear overview statement.

Lexical Resource

• Use synonyms to vary vocabulary.
• Example conversions:
  • Households -> Families
  • Electrical appliances -> Labor saving devices
  • Time spent -> Time devoted
  • Ownership -> Possessed

Grammatical Structures

• Use future tense and passive voice for planned changes.
• Example verbs for future: "will be," "is to be."

Coherence and Cohesion

• Logically link sentences and paragraphs.
• Use sequential connectors: "first," "then," "after that," etc.

Sample Task Example

• Task: Changes in electrical appliances ownership and time spent on housework (1920-2019).
• Overview Sentence: There is a clear relationship between increased appliance ownership and decreased time on household tasks.

Detailed Description

• Use of synonyms to describe trends: grow, climb, rise.
• Percentages and fractions to describe data: 3/4 (75%), 1/4 (25%).

Maps and Future Changes

• Describe future plans using predicted and planned structures.
• Example project: School expansion from maps (2004 to 2024).

Process Descriptions

• Describe steps and their consequences using sequential and causal language.

Final Tips

• Avoid personal opinions or conclusions in Task 1.
• Substitute opinions with factual descriptions.

Preparation Resources

• Consider online courses for detailed preparation.
• Explore sample answers and vocabulary resources.
• Watch lessons on writing introductions for Task 1.

Note

This guide captures essential tips and strategies for approaching the IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 and aims to help in achieving a higher band score.