TASK 1 Line Graphs

IELTS PRACTICE TASK

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The graph below shows changes in the distribution of average household income
between 1965 and 2015.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make
comparisons where relevant.

Write at least 150 words.

Distribution of household income

Year

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 TASK 1 Bar Charts

IELTS PRACTICE TASK

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The charts below show how often people in three age groups did various
different evening activities in 1980 and 2010.

Write a report for a university lecturer summarising the information shown in the
charts.

Write at least 150 words.

1980

2010

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 TASK 1 Tables

IELTS PRACTICE TASK

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The table below shows the type of accommodation chosen by foreign students studying
English in the city of Hamilton and other related information.

Write a summary of the most important statistics shown in the table.

Write at least 150 words.

Foreign Student Accommodation in the City of Hamilton

Rating for
Average distance
English
Type of % of $ per from city centre Overall
language
Accommodation students week in kms rating
development

Homestay 31 175 15 ***** ****

Staying with relatives 11 65 20 ** **

Shared student flat 34 195 5 *** *****

Student hostel 15 160 4 ** *

One-room apartment 8 250 5 * **

Own home 1 — 20 * ****

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 TASK 1 Pie Charts and Multiple Charts

IELTS PRACTICE TASK

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The diagrams below give information about internet use in different regions of the
world.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make
comparisons where relevant.

Write at least 150 words.

Internet use by world regions

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 TASK 1 Diagrams

IELTS PRACTICE TASK

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The diagram below shows the stages in the production of silk.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make
comparisons where relevant.

Write at least 150 words.

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 TASK 1 Maps and Plans

IELTS PRACTICE TASK

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

Below is a map of the town of Riverton. A new sports centre (S) has been planned
for the town. The map shows two possible sites for the sports centre.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make
comparisons where relevant.

Write at least 150 words.

Map of Riverton with two proposed sites for a sports centre

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 TASK 2 An Agree/Disagree Essay

IELTS PRACTICE TASK

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

International sporting events like the Olympics and football World Cup place huge
financial burdens on host nations that cannot be justified.

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?

Give evidence to support your ideas and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge
and experience.

Write at least 250 words.

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 TASK 2 A Discussion/Opinion Essay

IELTS PRACTICE TASK

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

People with ten or more years’ experience at work are far more knowledgeable
than people still in their twenties.

It is therefore logical that employers should always choose older people over
young people for work.

What are your opinions on this?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge and
experience.

Write at least 250 words.

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 TASK 2 A Problem/Solution Essay

IELTS PRACTICE TASK

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

In the last few decades, an increasing number of animal species have become
endangered or have died out completely. It appears likely that this situation will
continue.

What do you think are the causes of this problem and what measures could be taken to
prevent it?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or
experience.

Write at least 250 words.

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 SAMPLE WRITING ANSWERS

TASK 1 Line Graphs

Sample answer Band Score 8
The line graph shows how a typical household distributed their earnings over the 50-year period
ending in 2015.
In 1965, households saved 11% of their income, a figure which remained stable until 1990. Then it
started to fall, reaching just 4% in 2015. In a contrast to this, approximately 10% of household
earnings was spent on accomodation until 1990, but this then climbed to 17% over the next 25
years. It was the highest single spending of income. Recreation, food and transport all rose steadily
from around 3% to approximately 6%. Expenditure on gas and electricity etc. showed a similar
general trend, but the increase in spending came much later, starting only in about 2005. Finally,
spending on home improvements was neglegible until the 1990s, but had reached 3% at the end of
the period.
To sum up, spending on accomodation increased significantly over the period while most
households saved less. (152 words)

Task Achievement: 8 The answer covers all requirements of the task sufficiently and presents the key
features of the graph clearly and appropriately.
Coherence and Cohesion: 8 The information and ideas are sequenced logically. The writer manages all
aspects of cohesion well.
Lexical Resource: 9 The writer uses a wide range of vocabulary with very natural and sophisticated control of
lexical features. There are rare minor errors of spelling that occur only as 'slips'.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: 8 The writer uses a wide range of structures and the majority of
sentences are error-free. There are only very occasional grammatical errors or inappropriacies.

TASK 1 Bar Charts

Sample answer Band Score 8
The bar charts show information about five evening entertainment options among three age groups
over a 30-year period from 1980. Overall, the most significant change relates to internet use,
because no-one spent time online in 1980. But by 2010, people of all ages above 15 were
entertaining themselves at home on the computer about 14 evenings per month. This was the most
popular of the activities.
Apart from this, among 15 to 25-year olds, eating out, going to movies and shopping all increased in
popularity. They all rose from around once in a week in 1980 to roughly five times in a week 30
years later. In contrast, a figure for visiting relatives and friends was stable at five times weekly. For
people aged 26 to 50, eating out trebled in popularity. But the other three activities were being done
only slightly more frequently by 2010. Finally, those over 51 changed little about how they spent
their evenings. (158 words)

Task Achievement: 8 The writer has covered all the requirements of the task sufficiently well and illustrated
the key feature clearly and appropriately.
Coherence and Cohesion: 7 There is a clear progression of information and ideas throughout the answer.
Use of a wider range of cohesive devices would result in longer, more complex sentences.
Lexical Resource: 8 The writer uses a wide range of vocabulary fluently and flexibly to convey precise
meanings and skilfully uses less common lexical items.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: 8 The majority of sentences are error-free and the writer makes only
occasional minor errors with collocations etc. On the whole, a wide range of structures have been used.

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 SAMPLE WRITING ANSWERS

TASK 1 Tables
Sample answer Band Score 8
The table shows information about six forms of accommodation used by English language students
in Hamilton city. Overall, living with a homestay family or sharing a student flat were the most
popular options, although each sort of residence had advantages and disadvantages.
Over 30% chose homestays or flats, which were more expensive forms of accommodation at $175
and $195 per week respectively. Flats had the advantage of being closer to the city centre – 5 kms
compared to 15 kms – although students thought that homestays were better for English language
development. Hostels cost a slightly less than both of them and were located close to the city centre,
but were less good for English language development. Accommodating with relatives was much
cheaper at just $65 but a long way from the centre. A single room apartment was the most
expensive accommodation at $250. It was not seen as a good way for English language
development and it was chosen by only 8% of students. (161 words)

Task Achievement: 8 The writer highlights the key features of the table clearly and appropriately. All
requirements of the task are covered sufficiently well.
Coherence and Cohesion: 8 Ideas and information are sequenced logically. The writer manages all aspects
of cohesion well and has used paragraphing appropriately.
Lexical Resource: 7 The writer uses a sufficient range of vocabulary to allow for some flexibility although at
times there is repetition of key vocabulary. The writer has produced minor errors in word choice.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: 8 The majority of sentences are error-free and the writer makes only
occasional errors. A wide range of structures have been used.

TASK 1 Pie Charts and Multiple Charts

Sample answer Band Score 7.5
The diagrams illustrate how the internet was used in various world regions in 2014. The pie chart
shows how internet usage was divided across populations, and the bar chart indicates what reason
the internet was accessed.
From the pie chart we see that at 44.8%, the vast majority of internet users were located in the
Asian continent. We can also see that European users have represented about half this percentage
at 22.1%, followed by North Americans at 12%. Internet users in Oceania/Australia and the Middle
East only account for 1.1% and 3.4% respectivelly.
The bar chart tells us the main reason for using the internet in 2014 was instant messaging. We also
can understand that just over 50% of users watched online videos, while the same number of users
at 40% listened to music and also spent time in social networking sites. In summary, we observe the
greatest usage of the internet occurred in Asia, and that instant messaging was also its primary
function. (164 words)

Task Achievement: 8 The answer satisfies all requirements of the task. The key features of the two diagrams
have been highlighted clearly and appropriately.
Coherence and Cohesion: 7 Information is organised clearly and logically. A range of cohesive devices are
used, although there is some slight over-use.
Lexical Resource: 8 A wide range of vocabulary is used so that meaning is clearly conveyed. There are a
couple of minor spelling mistakes.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: 7 A variety of complex structures are used and there is generally good
control of grammar and punctuation. A few errors are present but do not impede communication.

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 SAMPLE WRITING ANSWERS

TASK 1 Diagrams
Sample answer Band Score 8
The production of silk
There are seven key stages involved in the production of silk. At the beginning of the process, a
Bombyx mori moth lays around 350 to 450 eggs on a leaf. About seven to twenty days later, tiny
black silkworms hatch from these, and by eating very large quantities of mulberry leaves, they
eventually can grow to approximately three inches in length. It is about 70 times their original size.
Then, after a period of between 25 to 28 days, the young silkworms can be ready to spin a cocoon
around themselves, and this is all held together by a substance called silk gum. Following this, the
cocoons are boiled in some hot water until the silk gum softens, which makes it easier for unwind
individual silk filaments. After the filaments have unwound, they then can be spunned into a single
thread which is very fine and strong. Finally, at the last stage of the production process, the thread
can be weaven into a silk fabric. (165 words)

Task Achievement: 9 The task requirements are fully satisfied, with the key features well presented and
expanded on.
Coherence and Cohesion: 8 There is clear sequencing and staging, and all aspects of cohesion are
managed well.
Lexical Resource: 8 There is a wide range of vocabulary, which is used flexibly to convey precise meaning.
There is some skilful use of uncommon lexical items but a couple of inaccuracies in word formation.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: 7 A range of complex structures are used, and sentences are frequently
error-free.

TASK 1 Maps and Plans

Sample answer Band Score 8
The map shows a plan for two potential sites for a sports centre in the town of Riverton. These two
areas can be seen to the north-west of the map and at the south end of the town centre.
The first possible location, S1, is closer to the residential area than S2. It is also located near the
main road which goes from the bottom of the map to the top. One disadvantage of locating the
sports centre here is that there will probably not be much parking, because the town centre is a
traffic-free zone.
The second site under consideration, S2, is south of the shopping mall zone and above the area
called farmland. Although this site is further away from the residential area, people will be able to
easily access it by road or by rail. Locating it here may also encourage shoppers from the mall to
use it. Furthermore, lying just below the site is the river, which would provide a nice view. (166
words)

Task Achievement: 8 The task requirements are satisfied and the key features are appropriately presented
and developed.
Coherence and Cohesion: 8 Information is arranged clearly and logically. There is appropriate use of
paragraphs, and ideas and information are linked.
Lexical Resource: 6 An adequate range of vocabulary is used for the task.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: 8 A range of complex structures are used, and the majority of sentences
are accurate.

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 SAMPLE WRITING ANSWERS

TASK 2 An Agree/Disagree Essay

Sample answer Band Score 7.5
There is little doubt that today's global sports competitions like the Olympic Games and FIFA World
Cup are extremely popular. Countries compete hard to win hosting rights and potentially television
audiences are enormous. But is money spent on hosting these events actually well spent?
On the one hand, the cost are very high. Doing a campaign to win hosting rights is very expensive,
even before we address allegations that the process is corrupt anyway. Building infastructure such
as stadiums, pools and transport facilities costs a huge amount of money and is so difficult that it is
not always possible on time, such as in Brazil in 2014. Maybe it would be better if this resource was
directed towards vital services, like health and education.
On the other hand, there are many benefits. For the London Olympics, a run down and deprived part
of the city was regenerated by building new facilities. What is more, a great number of jobs and
employment were created, both preparing for the games and holding the event itself. Any large
sporting competition brings thousands of visitors to the host country, which contributes to the
economy. And afterwards, the local community can enjoy the use of truly world class sports' venues.
On balance, there are obviously risks involved in hosting these events. But if it is managed well, the
Olympics or World Cup can probably make a profit for the host nation. And there is also the 'feel
good' factor, which it is impossible to put a price on. (253 words)

Task Response: 8 The writer sufficiently addresses all parts of the task and presents a well-developed
response to the question with relevant, supported ideas.
Coherence and Cohesion: 8 Information and ideas are logically sequenced throughout the answer.
Paragraphs are used appropriately throughout.
Lexical Resource: 7 The writer uses a sufficient range of vocabulary to allow some flexibility. Less common
lexical items are used with some awareness of collocation. There are occasional errors in word choice, spelling
and formation.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: 7 A variety of complex structures have been used. The candidate
generally has good control of grammar and punctuation but makes a few errors.

TASK 2 A Discussion/Opinion Essay

Sample answer Band Score 8
Nowadays, with high unemployment in many countries, there is a considerable competition for job
vacancies. Young people searching for work frequently find themselves applying for the same roles
as older, more experienced job-seekers. It is debatable, however, whether employers should regard
age as the key factor for choosing a potential employee.
On the one hand, we must certainly acknowledge that people in their thirties to sixties will usually
have wider experience of their specific field than recent graduates or people just starting on their
career journey. Furthermore, they will probably also have more self-confidence when it comes to
working within a team, delegating tasks, having the initiative for particular projects, and taking on
more responsibility. Having said this, even if you are in a job for a long time, it does not mean
necessarily that a person is suitable to managerial positions; not everybody has the right personality
or the skills to be an effective leader.
On the other hand, it is also an indisputable fact that jobs are created that did not exist ten or more
years ago. All kinds of technology-based positions are becoming available, and it is younger people
that have the education and training to fill them. Despite their lack of experience, the younger
generation can also demonstrate a fresh perspective to the way things are done at work. With the
right kind of encouragement, they can problem-solve and brainstorm just as well as their older
colleagues. In my opinion, and based on my own observations at work, I would say that employers
need to look at both the aptitude and attitude of a job applicant, and form their decisions on these
qualities rather than age. (280 words)

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 SAMPLE WRITING ANSWERS

Task Response: 9 All parts of the task are fully addressed. Relevant, fully extended and well supported ideas
are provided.
Coherence and Cohesion: 9 Information and ideas are logically sequenced. All aspects of cohesion are
managed well, with appropriate use of paragraphing.
Lexical Resource: 8 A wide range of vocabulary is used fluently and flexibly to convey precise meaning.
There are occasional inaccuracies in collocation.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: 8 A wide range of structures are used, and there are only occasional
errors.

TASK 2 A Problem/Solution Essay

Sample answer Band Score 8
In the past thirty years, many animal species have become extinct. This is a terrible tragedy but it is
also a needless one. Many of these species were wiped out because of human action, or in some
occasions, inaction. The question is whether we can learn from our errors, or whether we will
continue to ruin our ecosystem.
A major cause of species extinction is the destruction of habitat. This happens when forests are cut
down or jungle is devastated and the native animals not only can lose their place of shelter, but their
food sources. This is the case with orang-utans, bears, rhinoceros – all from different continents –
but facing the same problems. The creation of dams and the diversion of streams are also creating
problems for aquatic species. When this happens, they can no longer live, breed or migrate in the
water resources they need. Creatures living in water also face the extra problem of pollution. This is
going on in many places of the world: because of industry waste that pours into rivers, fish and frogs
are poisoned, and in the oceans, because of the rubbish that people throw away, marine species
are frequently killed when eating it.
Government action is what is required to tackle these issues. Our leaders need to create legislations
which protects the natural environment; developers must not be allowed to destroy areas that
endangered species require, and industries should be penalised for their waste. Furthermore, if we
want to ensure the survival of these species, we should all take responsibility and find out what we
can do to help. Because in the age of the internet, there’s no excuse for remaining in ignorance.
(280 words)

Task Response: 8 All parts of the task are fully addressed. A well-developed response to the question is
given, with relevant and extended ideas, and supporting examples.
Coherence and Cohesion: 7 Information is logically organised and there is clear progression. There is a clear
central topic within each paragraph. However, there is some over-use of cohesive devices.
Lexical Resource: 8 A wide range of vocabulary is used fluently and flexibly to convey precise meaning.
Some uncommon lexical items are used skilfully, but there are occasional inaccuracies in word choice.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: 8 A wide range of structures are used, and there are only occasional
errors.

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