Academic Writing Task 1 · map

Comparison of Park Layout Changes Between 1980 and the Present

The picture below shows the changes in the park from 1980 to now.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant. Write at least 150 words.

Park Layout Changes

1980

Gate at top left
Trees in top right triangle
Pond in middle left
Three benches around pond
Flowers in bottom left
Gate at bottom middle

Now

Trees in top right
Chairs, desks, and barbecue area in top right
Pond in middle
Three benches around pond
Bush in bottom middle
Playground in bottom right

Chart redrawn by BandLadder from the data in the original IELTS practice task. Many IELTS practice tasks come from the Cambridge IELTS series (Cambridge University Press & Assessment); all rights in the original tasks remain with their owners.

Band 8 sample answer

The provided maps illustrate the transformation of a park between 1980 and the present day. Overall, the park has evolved from a primarily aesthetic space into a more functional area designed for leisure and social activities.

In 1980, the park featured a pond surrounded by three benches, with a flower bed located in the bottom left corner and a triangular section of trees in the top right. Access was provided by two gates, one at the top left and another at the bottom middle. The layout was relatively simple, focusing on greenery and seating.

By contrast, the current layout shows substantial changes. While the pond and its three surrounding benches remain, the flower bed has been replaced by a bush area. Furthermore, the top right section, which previously contained only trees, now includes a picnic area equipped with chairs, desks, and a barbecue. Additionally, a new playground has been constructed in the bottom right corner of the park. These developments indicate a shift towards accommodating more diverse recreational needs, transforming the park into a more versatile public space compared to its original 1980 configuration.

184 words. Every figure in the answer comes from the chart above.

How to write about maps

Overview: how much the area changed and what stayed the same.
Use location language: to the north of, adjacent to, replaced by.
Group changes by area or by type, such as housing, roads and green space.

transformation: a thorough or dramatic change in form or appearance
evolved: developed gradually from a simple to more complex form
replaced: taken the place of something previously in use
equipped: supplied with the necessary items for a purpose
constructed: built or erected something, typically a large structure
configuration: an arrangement of elements in a particular form

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Frequently asked questions

What should the overview say?

The park has undergone significant structural modifications, most notably the replacement of flower beds with recreational facilities and the addition of a designated picnic area.

How long should an IELTS Task 1 answer be?

At least 150 words; 170 to 200 is the safe range. Spend about 20 minutes on it and leave 40 for Task 2, which carries twice the marks.

How do I describe maps?

Overview: how much the area changed and what stayed the same. Use location language: to the north of, adjacent to, replaced by. Group changes by area or by type, such as housing, roads and green space.