Comparing crime rates between different countries over a period of time is a commonly tested topic in the IELTS Writing Task 1. The IELTS examines your ability to summarize and compare given data, identifying key trends and significant differences. This topic can appear frequently in your exams as it tests multiple skills, including data interpretation, comparative language usage, and analytical writing.
For today’s lesson, we will create an example task, analyze it, and then go through a sample answer that you can use as a reference. This topic is particularly useful for practicing several core skills that are crucial for achieving a high band score in IELTS Writing Task 1.
Sample IELTS Task 1 Prompt
The graph below shows crime rates in Country A, Country B, and Country C from 2000 to 2023. Summarize the information by selecting and reporting the main features and make comparisons where relevant.
Analyzing the Task
When analyzing an IELTS Writing Task 1 prompt, it’s important to identify what kind of data is presented and plan the structure of your response. For the provided task, this means breaking down the information into manageable parts, noting significant trends, and planning comparisons.
Important Points to Note
- Identify the trends for each country.
- Compare the crime rates between those countries over various time periods.
- Note any significant events or anomalies.
Sample Answer
Below is a complete sample response for our given task. This response should give you a good idea of the structure, language, and level of detail necessary to achieve a high score.
Sample Essay
The line graph represents the crime rates in three different countries, namely Country A, Country B, and Country C, from 2000 to 2023. Overall, Country A exhibited a rising trend in crime rates, while Country B and Country C saw fluctuations over the same period.
To begin with, Country A experienced a significant increase in its crime rates. Starting at 20 incidents per 1,000 people in 2000, the rate rose steadily to 50 incidents per 1,000 by 2023. This upward trajectory was consistent, with only minor fluctuations throughout the period.
In contrast, the crime rate in Country B fluctuated over the years. Initially, it began at 30 incidents per 1,000 people in 2000, peaking at 45 incidents per 1,000 in 2008. However, it then experienced a sharp decline to around 20 incidents per 1,000 by 2015, followed by another increase to 35 incidents per 1,000 in 2023.
Country C showcased the most volatile trend among the three. Starting at 25 incidents per 1,000 people in 2000, its crime rate varied dramatically, peaking at 40 incidents per 1,000 in 2005 and plunging to 15 incidents per 1,000 in 2010. By 2023, the crime rate slightly increased to 22 incidents per 1,000 people.
In summary, while Country A saw a steady increase in crime rates, both Country B and Country C experienced more complex and fluctuating patterns. Country B exhibited a general declining trend towards the end of the period, whereas Country C displayed significant volatility with no clear trend direction.
Word Count: 248 words
Key Considerations for Writing
Vocabulary
- Fluctuate (verb) /ˈflʌktʃueɪt/: To rise and fall irregularly in number or amount.
- Trajectory (noun) /trəˈdʒektəri/: The path followed by a projectile flying or an object moving under the action of given forces.
- Volatile (adjective) /ˈvɒlətaɪl/: Liable to change rapidly and unpredictably, especially for the worse.
- Exhibit (verb) /ɪɡˈzɪbɪt/: To show or display a quality or type of behavior.
Sentence Structures
- Comparisons: Use structures such as “while,” “whereas,” and “in contrast” to effectively compare different trends.
- While Country A’s crime rate rose steadily, Country B’s rate showed significant fluctuations.
- Trends & Changes: Use verbs and phrases like “increased,” “declined,” “peaked,” “plunged,” and “fluctuated” to describe changes over time.
- The crime rate declined sharply to around 20 incidents per 1,000 by 2015.
Focus on Clarity
Ensure that your writing is clear and logical. Break down your analysis into distinct paragraphs that each focus on a specific country or trend. Use linking phrases to ensure smooth transitions between points.
Conclusion
To effectively tackle an IELTS Writing Task 1 question on comparing crime rates, always begin by thoroughly analyzing the data. Follow a structured approach, use appropriate vocabulary and make sure to make clear and detailed comparisons. Practice regularly with different types of data, and always review your work to identify areas for improvement. With consistent effort, you can achieve a high band score in the IELTS Writing Task 1.