IELTS Writing Task 1 Map: Strategies, Samples & Structure

Introduction to IELTS Map Task 1

IELTS writing task 1 map questions require you to describe maps, layouts, or plans across different time periods and scenarios. These tasks typically present two maps, often comparing past, present, or future layouts of towns, resorts, or buildings. You must draft an essay of at least 150 words, describing the key features and physical elements in the maps. These could be roads, buildings, and natural features, using specific vocabulary such as directional language ( north, south, east, and west). The structure involves an introduction, an overview, and body paragraphs. Read the next section to learn about it in detail.

Structure to Write an Academic IELTS Map Task 1

The ideal structure for writing task 1 IELTS map essay involves 4 paragraphs - an introduction, an overview, and two body paragraphs describing the main features, and the conclusion. Here is a detailed overview of the structure.

Paragraph 1: Write an Introduction

In the introduction, you must state the question by paraphrasing it. Further, summarize the topic and purpose of the map provided in the question.

Paragraph 2: Write an Overview

In the second paragraph, you must highlight and describe the changes that have taken place in both maps.

Paragraph 3 & 4: Details About the 1st and 2nd Map

Paragraphs 3 and 4 of your map chart task 1 talk about the key features of the maps.

Paragraph 5: Conclusion

Lastly, paragraph 5 talks about the overall summary and the changes in the significant changes in the two maps.

This was all about the basic structure of the map in IELTS writing task 1 essay, which consists of five paragraphs.

IELTS Writing Map Task 1 Sample Responses

This section contains a few IELTS writing task 1 map sample answers for your reference. Read below:

Sample 1

IELTS Writing Map Task 1: Map of a Park

The map below describes changes to the park in 1980 and now.

Introduction:

The maps demonstrate the changes in the structure of the park from 1980 to the present day. It is transparent that the park has undergone several changes. The two maps illustrate that there are significant transformations in the park from its original layout to its current state.

Overview:

The few key changes that the redesigned park shows include the addition of recreational space for outdoor seating (chairs and desks), along with eating (barbecue). Further, flowerbeds on the lower right and side of the map have been transformed into a children’s playground. Moreover, the gates have been replaced with a passage or a path. The smaller flowerbed on the left-hand side of the map has turned into bushes. The original pond remains, but there are a few additional benches near the pond; instead of three benches, now there are a total of four benches.

Body Paragraph 1:

In 1980, the park contained a central pond surrounded by three benches, with two flower gardens positioned on the two sides(right and left). The trees occupied the top right corner, and there were two gates.

Body Paragraph 2:

On the current map, there are four benches near the pond, with a bush and a children’s playground. A space for outdoor seating and eating has been created, and there is a path.

Conclusion:

These modifications have significantly enhanced visitor amenities such as food services, seating facilities, and improved pathways, making the park more functional for everyone.

Sample 2

IELTS Writing Map Task 1: University Sports Courts

The maps below show university sports courts in 1990 and now. Summarize the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

Introduction:

The two maps illustrate how the university sports court has changed from 1990 to the present day. It illustrates that the area has undergone redevelopment, expanding it to its full capacity and diversifying the sports facilities.

Overview:

There are significant changes and modifications made in the university sports courts. These include the addition of a basketball court in place of the park. Further, the car parking area has been converted into a bigger tennis court. The outdoor swimming pool has been turned into an indoor pool. The cafe and reception area remain the same. However, the small changing room has been expanded notably. Furthermore, an additional fitness center has been introduced.

Body Paragraph 1:

In 1990, the sports courts comprisedof a small car parking area and a park on one side. Further, on the other side was a cafe, reception, and a changing room, along with an outdoor pool. In the bottom right corner, there was a tennis court.

Body Paragraph 2:

The present-day map shows that there is a separate section for the courts. The tennis court remains but has been expanded and relocated, the same is the case with the changing room. Besides, a new basketball court and a fitness center have been developed.

Conclusion:

These developments reflect the university’s emphasis on modern athletic infrastructure. It has been converted into a multi-functional space that provides several sports facilities under one roof. The transformation demonstrates a strategic shift toward accommodating diverse sporting interests.

Sample 3

IELTS Writing Map Task 1: Proposed Plan

The map below describes the current layout and the proposed future plan for the area.

Introduction:

The map portrays the layout now the the proposed future plan layout of a town and a proposed redevelopment plan for the area. It can be seen that there isn’t much change, in fact, only three major modifications.

Overview:

The proposed town plan for the area introduces a few upgrades to infrastructure and amenities. However, the proposed plan is carefully altered, keeping in mind and maintaining essential existing facilities. The most notable changes can be seen in the railway line, which runs parallel to the A2 road. Further, A4 is expanded and now intersects the town center, improving connectivity. Instead of the airfield,d an industrial estate has been developed, connection to the road. Moreover, the gas station and the town center remain the same. The A4 is now widened into a dual way linking to industrial zone to the town center, with a new roundabout.

Body Paragraph 1:

The existing layout of the area does have landmarks, such as the gas station, town center, and railway. However, there is just one roundabout on A2 road which connects you to the town center. Besides, there is an airfield on the A2.

Body Paragraph 2:

The plan emphasizes sustainability and will also ease traffic flow in areas like the railway junction, main street, and town center. The newly introduced A4 roads towards the end of the A2 road and from the town center will improve accessibility. Apart from that the new roundabout near the railway and the town center will also be beneficial in controlling traffic.

Conclusion:

These developments and redesigns will ensure that the area meets its future demands without disrupting existing patterns.

Sample 4

IELTS Writing Map Task 1: Map of a City in 1950

The map below describes the layout of the city in 1950 and the current layout of the city.

Introduction:

The maps depict the difference between the structure of the city in 1950 and now. The city appears to have a well-designed layout now with distinct functional areas, connected by a network of roads and a bridge.

Overview:

There are certain transformations in the design of the city. The business district in the center position has expanded on either side of the lake. Further, the residential area appears to have been developed all around the business district in a circle. Possibly, housing workers are employed in the nearby commercial area.

A government building is introduced now and stands in the south business district area. The addition of new roads connects you to the primary route leading to a bridge that makes a path and connects the residential area to the lake. Besides, the other bridge that is in the middle stays the same, connecting the business district and the lake.

Body Paragraph 1:

The previous map illustrates a road system that connects in all directions - north, south, east, and west. A government building towards the south side of the river, and a business and residential area towards the north of the lake. A bridge connecting the two sides.

Body Paragraph 2:

The map reveals a clear separation of the areas, which is characteristic of 20th-century city planning. Besides, providing different zones for commercial, residential, and government, yet all connected, demonstrates an organized approach.

Conclusion:

The development and the new layout city illustrate the proper connectivity and transportation efficiency. The presence of the two bridges connects the residential and business areas well. Besides, the separation between residential and business zones indicates early urban planning considerations.

Sample 5

IELTS Writing Map Task 1: Floor Plan of a Home

The plans below show a home and plans for its redevelopment. Summarize the information by selecting and reporting the main features and making comparisons where relevant.

Introduction:

The two-floor plans represent the layout of a single-story home and its plans for redevelopment. The house includes a living room/social area, study/bedroom, ensuite bathroom, kitchen, and garden, creating a balance of personal and shared spaces.

Overview:

There are a few changes in the layout, and a new parking space has been introduced. Besides, instead of three study/bedrooms, there are now five spaces for study/bedrooms. Besides, one of the bedrooms is adjacent to an en-suite bathroom. The bathroom near the hall, entrance, and the garden in the north remains as it is. Further, the kitchen/social area allows interactions while preparing meals and engaging with guests.

Body Paragraph 1:

The previous layout has two gardens, an entrance, a living room, a bathroom, a hall, a kitchen, and three study/bedrooms in three corners of the home.

Body Paragraph 2:

The new layout ensures easy accessibility to all parts of the home. It has a garden, parking, entrance, bathroom, hall, kitchen/social area, an ensuite bathroom, and five study/bedrooms.

Conclusion:

The floor plan demonstrates a practical approach to modern living, it depicts a balance and maintains good connectivity between the areas. The key design elements include efficient space utilization.

These were a few IELTS writing task 1 map sample answers for your understanding.

Strategies to Succeed in IELTS Map Task 1

Proper IELTS preparation is essential to succeed in IELTS Map Task 1. You must first focus on understanding the task and then plan your response accordingly. Further, it is vital to use clear and concise vocabulary and also practice regularly. Here are the key strategies that will help you succeed in the task.

1. Understand the Task: Map questions in the IELTS writing task 1 require you to describe a map, a layout, or a potential plan in comparison to a previous version of it.

2. Plan Your Response: Read the specific requirements of the task before writing your response. Further, analyze the map, identify the features, and its key changes. This will help you organize your response and cover important information.

3. Use Precise Vocabulary: Using specific vocabulary, such as locations and prepositional phrases, will help you score well.

4. Structure Your Essay: Your map task 1 essay must include an introduction, an overview, and detailed paragraphs describing the features of the two maps.

5. Focus on Key Features: You must analyze and identify the key features and changes, and describe those properly.

6. Practice Regularly: It is vital that you practice regularly for the task so that you get familiar with the structure and you can identify the key features and draft your essay.

Conclusion

To wrap up, this is everything about the IELTS map task 1 in the writing section. Although writing task 1 map questions can be challenging, however, with the right preparation, regular practice, and study resources, you can improve your IELTS score overall. Besides, you can get Gradding's customized plan or self-help kit, so that you can ace the exam on the first attempt. They offer excellent IELTS training and help you prepare for all four sections of IELTS. Further, you can also check out their IELTS reading test practice to make sure you are well prepared and to review where you stand in your preparation journey.

Some Useful Links:

IELTS Process Chart

IELTS mixed chart

IELTS line graph

FAQ’s

1. Do I Need to Use Specific Vocabulary for Map Charts?

Yes, using specific vocabulary for IELTS map writing task 1 is essential as it not only helps you enhance your description but also makes it more precise, effective, and clear. With the use of specific vocabulary such as expanded, renovated, north, south, etc., you can achieve a higher band score.

2. What Kind of Map Charts Might Appear in the Test?

In map IELTS writing task 1, there are several kinds of map chart questions. Some common types of map charts that you might come across are as follows:

• Before and After Maps
• Proposed Changes Maps
• Comparative Maps
• Single Time Point Maps
• Tourist or Transport Maps

3. How Much Information Should I Include in My Description?

When describing map task 1 IELTS you mustprovide a brief a brief introduction of 1-2 sentences. The aim is to provide clear, concise information about the overall maps, first in the introduction and then in detail in two body paragraphs.

4. How to Get Band 7 in Writing Map Task 1 IELTS?

To get a band score of 7 or higher in map task 1 in the IELTS exam, you must use specific vocabulary, include data or figures in your overview, and summarize the main features properly.