The IELTS Writing Task 1 often presents candidates with data in various forms, requiring them to transform this information into well-structured, informative written reports. One common data type is a line graph, which frequently illustrates trends over time. A popular theme for such graphs is “House Price Trends in Major Cities.” This topic allows examiners to assess your ability to interpret visual data, identify key trends, and present your analysis using appropriate vocabulary and grammar.

This article provides a comprehensive guide to tackling IELTS Writing Task 1 questions centered around house price trends. We will delve into relevant vocabulary, analyze a sample line graph, and craft a band-scoring essay response. Additionally, we’ll highlight common pitfalls and essential tips to help you achieve your desired band score.

Sample IELTS Writing Task 1 Question

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The graph below shows the average house prices in three major cities – Tokyo, London, and New York – from 2000 to 2020.

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

House Price Trends in Tokyo, London, and New York (2000-2020)

Data Analysis

Before diving into writing, it’s crucial to analyze the provided graph thoroughly. Look for:

• Overall Trends: Is there a general upward or downward trend in house prices across the cities?
• Significant Changes: Are there any sharp increases, decreases, or periods of stability?
• Comparisons: How do the house price trends compare across the three cities? Are there any notable similarities or differences?

Sample Essay Response

The line graph illustrates the average house prices in three major global cities—Tokyo, London, and New York—over a two-decade period from 2000 to 2020.

At the start of the period, London had the highest average house price, standing at approximately £300,000, followed by Tokyo at around £250,000. New York had the lowest average house price, at roughly £200,000.

Over the next decade, house prices in all three cities experienced an upward trajectory. London witnessed the most dramatic surge, with prices peaking at nearly £500,000 in 2010, a significant increase of about 67%. Tokyo and New York also saw their average house prices climb steadily during this period, reaching around £350,000 and £300,000 respectively by 2010.

However, the trend shifted in the latter decade. While London experienced a slight dip in house prices after 2010, Tokyo saw a period of stagnation followed by a gradual decline. By 2020, the average house price in Tokyo had fallen to approximately £300,000. Conversely, New York’s housing market continued to grow steadily, reaching an average price of roughly £400,000 by 2020.

In conclusion, the graph reveals distinct patterns in house price trends across the three cities. While all experienced growth in the first decade, the latter decade witnessed contrasting patterns of stagnation, decline, and continued growth.

(Word count: 198 words)

Key Vocabulary and Grammar Tips

• Vocabulary: Use specific vocabulary to describe trends (e.g., surge, plummet, fluctuate, stabilize) and make comparisons (e.g., significantly higher, considerably lower, in contrast to).
• Tenses: Use the past simple to describe past trends and the present simple for general statements about the data.
• Data Accuracy: Report data accurately, paying attention to units and avoiding overgeneralizations.
• Conciseness: Avoid redundancy and irrelevant information. Focus on presenting the key trends and comparisons clearly and concisely.

Challenging Vocabulary

• Trajectory: (noun) /trəˈdʒɛktəri/ The path followed by an object moving under the action of given forces.
• Surge: (verb) /sɜːrdʒ/ A sudden powerful forward or upward movement.
• Stagnation: (noun) /stæɡˈneɪʃən/ A state of inactivity or lack of growth.
• Conversely: (adverb) /ˈkɒnvɜːsli/ Introducing a statement or idea which reverses one that has just been made or referred to.
• Distinct: (adjective) /dɪˈstɪŋkt/ Recognizably different in nature from something else of a similar type.

Conclusion

Mastering the art of interpreting and reporting on data presented in line graphs is crucial for achieving a high score in the IELTS Writing Task 1. By familiarizing yourself with relevant vocabulary, understanding key grammatical structures, and practicing data analysis and writing, you can confidently tackle any house price trend question that comes your way. Remember to focus on clarity, accuracy, and conciseness to effectively communicate the information and impress the examiner.