The topic “Average Daily Time Spent on Physical Activities (2000-2023)” is highly relevant for IELTS Writing Task 1. It often appears in various forms like line graphs, bar charts, or tables, representing trends over a period. This guide aims to help IELTS candidates comprehend, analyze, and present data effectively in their writing task. We’ll explore an example question, provide a detailed analysis, and offer a sample response to help you achieve a Band 7+ score.
Example Questions
- Line Graph: The line graph below shows the average daily time (in minutes) spent on physical activities from 2000 to 2023. Summarize the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.
- Bar Chart: The bar chart illustrates the average daily time (in minutes) dedicated to physical activities by different age groups between 2000 and 2023. Summarize the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.
- Table: The table below provides information on the average daily time (in minutes) spent on various physical activities from 2000 to 2023. Summarize the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.
Choosing an Example Question
For this guide, we’ll take the first example – a line graph showing the average daily time spent on physical activities from 2000 to 2023.
Data Representation
Let’s create a hypothetical line graph based on the given topic:
Average Daily Time Spent on Physical Activities (2000-2023)
| Year | Minutes Per Day |
|---|---|
| 2000 | 30 |
| 2003 | 35 |
| 2006 | 40 |
| 2009 | 45 |
| 2012 | 50 |
| 2015 | 55 |
| 2018 | 60 |
| 2021 | 65 |
| 2023 | 70 |
Analyzing the Question
- Overview: Identify the main trends.
- Overall increase in time spent on physical activities.
- Steady growth with no significant declines.
- Details: Break down the data into segments.
- Periods of notable increase.
- Specific years showing impactful changes.
Writing the Overview
An effective way to start your response is by writing an overview that summarizes the key trends.
Example Overview:
“The line graph illustrates the increase in average daily time spent on physical activities from 2000 to 2023. Overall, there was a consistent rise in physical activity levels throughout the period.”
Writing in Detail
Next, provide a detailed description of the data. Organize the information into clear logical segments.
Body Paragraph Example:
“In 2000, the average daily time spent on physical activities was 30 minutes. This figure rose moderately to 35 minutes in 2003 and continued to increase, reaching 40 minutes by 2006. The upward trend persisted over the next few years, with the time spent on physical activities climbing to 45 minutes in 2009 and 50 minutes in 2012. Thereafter, there was a more pronounced increase as individuals spent an average of 60 minutes per day by 2018 and 70 minutes by 2023.”
Sample Response
“The line graph illustrates the increase in average daily time spent on physical activities from 2000 to 2023. Overall, there was a consistent rise in physical activity levels throughout the period.
In 2000, the average daily time spent on physical activities was 30 minutes. This figure rose moderately to 35 minutes in 2003 and continued to increase, reaching 40 minutes by 2006. The upward trend persisted over the next few years, with the time spent on physical activities climbing to 45 minutes in 2009 and 50 minutes in 2012.
Thereafter, there was a more pronounced increase. By 2015, individuals spent an average of 55 minutes per day on physical activities, and this figure rose to 60 minutes by 2018. In the subsequent years, the time continued to climb, reaching 65 minutes in 2021 and finally 70 minutes in 2023. These figures indicate a steady commitment toward physical health and well-being over the span of two decades.”
Word Count: 167
Writing Tips
- Vocabulary: Use varied vocabulary to describe trends (increase, rise, climb, upward trend).
- Grammar: Use comparatives and superlatives accurately (more pronounced increase, consistent rise).
- Consistency: Maintain a formal and academic tone.
Difficult Vocabulary
- Pronounced (adj.) /prəˈnaʊnst/: Very noticeable or marked; conspicuous.
- Upward trend (n.) /ˈʌpwərd trɛnd/: A tendency or movement towards a higher position or level.
- Moderately (adv.) /ˈmɒdərətli/: To an average extent; fairly but not very.
- Persisted (v.) /pərˈsɪstɪd/: Continued to exist or occur over a prolonged period.
- Climbing (v.) /ˈklaɪmɪŋ/: Moving upwards or increasing.
Conclusion
To achieve a Band 7+ score in IELTS Writing Task 1, it’s crucial to provide a concise yet detailed analysis of the data presented. Focus on identifying trends, using varied vocabulary, and maintaining a clear and coherent structure. By practicing these steps, you’ll improve your ability to describe data effectively and accurately.