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IELTS Academic Writing Task 1

This page will help guide you through the writing section of the IELTS exam. 

IELTS practice Academic Writing test - Task 1

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How to approach Academic Writing Task 1

In the IELTS Academic Writing test, you will have one hour to complete both of the two set writing tasks. Keep an eye on the time it takes you to complete practice Tasks 1 and 2 to make sure you don’t go too far over, and to use as a benchmark for how long you can expect each task to take you.

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In the actual test, you will move from the first to the second task without a break. However, while practicing, you may wish to reflect on the outcomes of practice Task 1 using the model answer provided before moving on to practice Task 2. Or you may wish to complete them both before looking at the model answers to give you a more accurate sense of timing.

An easy reminder…

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Q: How long should I spend on IELTS Writing Task 1?

A: We suggest 20 minutes – saving 40 minutes for Task 2.

 

Q: How many words for IELTS Writing Task 1?

A: 150 words is about the right length, but don’t be afraid to go a little over.

 

Q: Should I be formal or conversational in style?

A: You should write in a formal style, suited to an academic environment.

 

Q: What are the do’s and don’ts in IELTS Writing task 1?

A: Do pay attention to time - task 1 is worth one third of the total marks (while task 2 is worth two

thirds), Don’t let nervousness stop you from trying your best.

 

Get more tips to help you prepare for the writing tasks

 

Task 1 – Take a look at the chart below and perform the task as outlined:

 

This graph shows the proportion of four different materials that were recycled from 1982 to 2010 in a particular country.

 

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

ac_writing_task_1_0.png

What should I do next?

 

Once you’ve finished, you can download the model answer for Writing Task 1 and see how your work compares.

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This sample offers a useful guide for how to structure your answer for IELTS writing task 1, as well as the style of writing expected.  A good way to improve is to reflect on how your answer compares to the model answer – and, of course, keep practicing.

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If you want to see an example of an actual answer sheet for the IELTS Academic Writing test (‘on paper’ version), you can download a sample copy below.

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External Link : https://takeielts.britishcouncil.org/take-ielts/prepare/free-ielts-practice-tests/writing/academic/task-1

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WRITING TASK 1 – Ideal Answer

 

The chart shows the percentages of paper and cardboard, glass containers, aluminium cans and plastics that were recycled in one country between 1982 and 2010.

 

In 1982, about 65% of paper and cardboard was recycled. This figure fluctuated before rising steeply to reach a peak of 80% in 1994. From then on, however, it decreased steadily to a level of 70% in 2010. In 1982, half of all glass containers were recycled; after dipping to a low of 40% in 1990, the glass recycling rate gradually increased to 60% by 2010.

 

Aluminium cans were first recycled in 1986, starting at about 5%, but this figure climbed rapidly over 25 years and by 2010 it had reached 45%. Recycling of plastics, on the other hand, was not introduced until 1990 and, although the growth in this category was also constant, it was very slow, rising from about 2% to around 8% over the period.

 

Overall, the proportion of paper and cardboard that was recycled was the highest of the four classes of material, but this category experienced a decline after 1994, whereas there was a continuing upward trend in the recycling of the other materials.

 

194 words 

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External Link https://takeielts.britishcouncil.org/sites/default/files/bc_ac_writing_answers.pdf

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IELTS Practice Sections

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