IELTS Writing Task 1 – Sample Question & Model Answer

IELTS Writing Task 1 - Sample Question & Model Answer

Using sample questions to study for IELTS Writing Task 1 can help you be aware of IELTS question types and give you practice analysing a task. Of course, the question that you get on the exam will not be exactly the same as this sample question, but the strategies you use when you practice can help you on exam day.

In this post I have also included a model answer for this sample question and a few comments. Don’t try to memorise the model answer, instead analyse the structure and language used and see what you can learn from the model answer.

IELTS Writing Task 1 Sample Question:

IELTS Writing Task 1 - Sample Question & Model Answer

IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer:

The line graph shows the changes in the use of pieces of technology, the internet, the home computer, the mobile phone and the CD player, in the UK from 1996 to 2003. Overall, there was an upward trend in the access to all four home appliances and the CD player was the most used piece of technology.

In 1996/1997 nearly 60% of UK households used a CD player and this percentage increased to just over 80% in 2002/2003. In contrast, it is noticeable that there was no internet access in 1996/1997. In the following year 10% of UK homes had internet access and this increased steadily to about 45% in 2002/2003.

Access to home computers and mobile phones stood at 28% and 18% respectively at the beginning of the period. Home computer access saw a steady, even rise over the seven year period and reached a peak of just over 50% in 2002/2003. There was some fluctuations in access to mobile phones but the overall trend rose quite quickly. 70% of UK households had access to mobile phones in 2002/2003.

It is important to note that this model response is not perfect, it could be improved. It is equally important to note that you are not aiming for perfection.

The function of each of the paragraphs is very clear, an introduction followed by to paragraphs describing two groups of data. Also notice how the word “access” was used in different ways, this would contribute to a good lexical resource score.

Improve Your IELTS Writing SkillsThis sample question was taken from “Improve Your IELTS Writing Skills”. The model answers on this page are not from the book, they are my own words.

I often use this book when teaching my private students the skills needed for the Academic IELTS Writing Exam. To get all of the great practice tasks and IELTS Writing Sample Questions you can purchase the book here.

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