IELTS Writing Task 1 - Line graphs

There are many different types of Task 1 in the IELTS test, but one of the most common types is a line graph. Line graphs usually ask the writer to describe changes over a period of time.

Students often make mistake with grammatical structures when writing about the changes.

Example:

The Task 1 will probably include more than one line on the graph; however, you must start by checking that you are using good English grammar to describe the data. The best way to do this is to look at one line first.

There are 3 structures which are appropriate for describing this line:



No. 1:   The figures increased sharply over the given period.

Subject  +   verb    +    adverb    +    time

No. 2:   There was a sharp increase in the figures over the given period.

There is/was  +  a  +  adjective  +  noun  +  in   +  subject  +  time

No. 3:   The figures witnessed a sharp increase over the given period.

Subject     +     witnessed     +    a     +     adjective     +      noun     +     time


It is important to check that you always use the correct grammar  - many students mix up these structures.

Below is a short quiz. If you want help with your grammar, send in your answers to contact@paradigm-language.com or post them on our facebook wall.

We will post the correct answers on the wall in one week for you to check.

Quiz:

What are the problem with the sentences below? Each sentence has one mistake:

1. The figures sharp increased between 1980 and 2000.

2. There was a dramatically rise in the figures from 1980 to 2000.

3. The figures rose steep over the 21 year period.

4. The figures witnessed substantial upward trend throughout this period.

5. There was steep climb in the figures over the span of 21 years.

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