Academic Writing Task 1 · map

Comparison of Two Underground Tunnel Systems in Australian Cities

The maps show two different underground tunnel systems for cars in two Australian cites.

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

Tunnel System 1

Tunnel 1

  • Location: Under a bridge
  • Soil type: Sand
  • Tunnel depth: 1.5 meters
  • Tunnel length: 2.2 kilometers
  • Build period: 1986-1998
  • Cost: $555 million
  • Capacity: 2 lanes
Tunnel System 2

Tunnel 2

  • Location: Under a city
  • Soil type: Stone and clay
  • Tunnel depth: 2.5 meters
  • Tunnel length: 3.6 kilometers
  • Build period: 2002-2006
  • Cost: $1.1 billion
  • Capacity: 3 lanes

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 diagrams illustrate the specifications of two distinct underground tunnel systems constructed in Australian cities. Overall, it is evident that the second tunnel, built later, is more extensive in length and depth, accommodates more traffic, and required a substantially higher financial investment compared to the first tunnel.

The first tunnel, constructed between 1986 and 1998, was built under a bridge in a sandy environment. It spans a length of 2.2 kilometres at a depth of 1.5 metres. The total cost for this project was $555 million. In terms of capacity, the tunnel features two lanes, with each lane accommodating two vehicles side-by-side.

In contrast, the second tunnel was built beneath a city area between 2002 and 2006. This project involved excavating through stone and clay at a greater depth of 2.5 metres. Stretching 3.6 kilometres, this tunnel is significantly longer than the first. Reflecting its larger scale and more complex construction, the cost rose to $1.1 billion. Furthermore, this tunnel provides a higher capacity, featuring three lanes that allow for a greater volume of traffic compared to the earlier system.

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

How to write about maps

substantially
to a great or significant extent or degree
distinct
recognizably different in nature from something else
in contrast
used to show that something is different
accommodate
to provide enough space for a specific purpose
span
the full extent of something from end to end
reflecting
showing or representing something in a certain way

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Frequently asked questions

What should the overview say?

The two tunnels differ significantly in their construction duration, cost, physical dimensions, and traffic capacity, with the second tunnel being larger, more expensive, and more complex to build.

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.

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