IELTS Writing Task 1 - charts and graphic - raw data sample
In this great video from the show Saturday Night Live, the cast picks on Fox News TV Host by portraying them as interepreting each and everything they see in the literal sense. For instance a pie chart is depicted as pie from which a slice has been eaten.
(look for it at 0:55) |
Example 1: IELTS pie chart
The writing part of the IELTS comprises of two tasks.
In the first task you are asked to describe and analyze raw data that may come in the following format: - table chart - pie chart - graph - diagrams - timeline |
DOs:
1 Use appropriate tense to describe the data. -Use the present tense to explain what the chart is about: Ex: The chart demonstrates, shows, represents, indicates that …. -If the data shows a time progression, use the past tenses to describe past trends. Ex: the graph shows that women tended to practice more sports (to exercise (more) in the 80s. 2 Use transitional words to link the information together. This will prevent your essay from looking like a grocery list. “besides, as well as, likewise, in addition, conversely, in contrast, on the one hand, on the other hand, however, yet, while..., although, even though” 3 Make sure you mention the initial, highest, lowest and projection points. 4. Don't forget to cross-reference the data to spot and analyse reversals, overtime changes, unusal facts and contrast worth pointing out. 5. Imagine you need to give the main information you can draw from the graph or pie to someone who hasn't seen it. If your essay can answer all the questions he or she can have (what, where, when, what for, highest/lowest, contrasts- kids/adult/senior - gender- any reversals or changes?) Then chances are you'll fare well on this part. Don’ts:
Avoid the following pitfalls (écueil) •Do not describe all the data and facts presented in the graph. •Don't extrapolate from the data. Explain what the graph is about but stick to the fact. Don’t include your own opinion •Don’t suggest any solution to what you may see as a problem. Just report the data. Don't use contractions (can not=can't, do not =don't etc, will not=won't) in your writing. Contractions may be use in the speaking part. |
Practical information:
There are frequent test dates, usually on Thursdays or Saturdays. Fees are set by test centers and vary from one country to another. Expect to pay around £115, €220. Click here for the next available IELTS dates in France. Requis par: Universités et Services d'immigration en Australie, Nouvelle Zélande, au Canada et au Royaume-Unis Oral: oui (entretien avec un examinateur) Écrit: oui, manuscrit (essai et synthèse de données brutes - type tableau) Tarif (fee): 220€ Prochaines dates: cliquez sur ce lien pour consulter les prochaines dates de l'IELTS en France. |