Academic Task 1BeginnerTarget: Band 5.5–6.0

Map Template

Basic descriptions of what was built or removed over time using simple location vocabulary (North, South) and repetitive passive verbs.

Paragraph Structure

Introduction

The two maps show how Place changed from Year to Year.

Simply state what the maps show and the two years.

Overview

Overall, the place became more modern and there are more buildings now. Many trees were cut down to make room for houses.

Give a very general summary of the biggest change (usually 'more buildings, fewer trees').

Details 1 (The North/West)

In the North, they built a new Building. In the middle, the trees were cut down. A new road was also constructed here.

Describe changes in one half of the map. Use 'was built', 'was cut down', 'was opened'.

Details 2 (The South/East)

In the South, there is also a new Building near the river. The old houses are now bigger than before. The Original Building is still there but it was painted.

Describe changes in the other half of the map. Note anything that stayed the same.

Useful Phrases

The two maps show how...

Overall, the place became more modern

Many trees were cut down

In the North, they built a new...

In the middle...

A new road was also constructed...

In the South, there is also a new...

The old houses are now bigger than before.

Sample Answer

The two maps show how the town of Norbiton changed from 2010 to the present day. Overall, the place became much more modern and there are more buildings now. Many farm areas were cut down to make room for roads and houses. In the North of the town, they built a new housing estate. In the middle, the large farm was completely cut down. A new road was also constructed here to connect the houses to the roundabout. Moreover, a new school was opened near the East road. In the South, there is also a new medical center near the river. The old houses on the West side are now bigger than before. However, the original roundabout in the center is still there, but a new exit was added to it.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mixing up compass directions vs. relative directions

Writing 'At the top of the map' sounds like a child describing a drawing.

Fix: Always use compass directions: 'In the north', 'to the south-west', 'eastern border'.

Using active voice for buildings

Writing 'A hospital built a new wing' means the hospital itself grabbed some tools and built something.

Fix: Use the passive voice: 'A new hospital wing was built'.

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