Band 9 Vocabulary for IELTS Academic Writing Task 1: MAPS

Summary

This instructional video focuses on effectively describing map changes, specifically those of West Park Secondary School from 1950 to 2023. It emphasizes using varied vocabulary, appropriate verb tenses, and avoiding personal interpretations when summarizing. Key transformations include the demolition of houses for a car park, expansion of educational facilities with a new science block, and a reduction in recreational areas. The guide also highlights the importance of using the passive voice and proper grammatical structures for clarity in IELTS writing tasks, providing viewers with essential tips to improve their report writing skills.

Takeaways

• 😀 Understand how to describe maps effectively without repetition.
• 🗺️ Summarize main features of the maps and make relevant comparisons.
• 🏗️ Use specific vocabulary to describe changes, such as 'demolish,' 'construct,' and 'extend.'
• 📅 Employ appropriate verb tenses like past simple, present perfect, and past perfect in passive voice.
• 🔑 Highlight key changes, including what has been removed and what has been added over time.
• 📊 Organize your report logically, starting with a summary of the maps and following with detailed descriptions.
• 📝 Vary vocabulary to avoid redundancy and enhance the richness of the report.
• 📍 Use spatial terms effectively to describe the location of features in relation to each other.
• 🔮 When discussing future changes, utilize future tense forms appropriately to indicate planned developments.
• 📚 Consider utilizing supplementary resources for in-depth learning about vocabulary and grammar for IELTS writing tasks.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the lesson described in the video?

The lesson focuses on how to describe maps for IELTS Writing Task 1, including vocabulary, verb tenses, and structuring a report.

What should test-takers avoid when describing changes in the maps?

Test-takers should avoid interpretations and only describe observable changes shown in the maps.

What are some notable features discussed about the changes at West Park Secondary School?

Notable features include the replacement of farmland with a sports field, the expansion of the car park, and the addition of a science block.

Which verb tenses are emphasized for describing changes in the maps?

The passive voice is emphasized, particularly the past perfect tense for past changes and present perfect tense for ongoing situations.

How should vocabulary be varied when writing about maps?

Writers should use synonyms and both specific and general nouns to avoid repetition and enhance clarity.

What are some examples of positional phrases to describe locations on the maps?

Examples include 'at the top,' 'on the left,' 'in front of,' and 'next to.'

What is the recommended structure for an IELTS map report?

The recommended structure includes an opening statement summarizing the maps, followed by a logical flow of descriptions of the features.

Why is the passive voice preferred in map descriptions?

The passive voice is preferred because it emphasizes the processes and changes rather than who performed the actions.

What should candidates remember when discussing future changes indicated on the maps?

Candidates should differentiate between definite and potential future changes, using appropriate verb tenses.

What resources are suggested for further study of vocabulary and grammar for IELTS Writing Task 1?

The video suggests downloading a comprehensive PDF guide with vocabulary and the IELTS academic pack for in-depth lessons on grammar and vocabulary.