The global landscape of employment sectors is constantly evolving, influenced by factors like technological advancements, globalization, and economic fluctuations. Understanding how these sectors differ across countries is crucial for IELTS Writing Task 1, where you might be asked to analyze and compare data presented in charts, graphs, or tables.
This article provides a comprehensive guide to tackling IELTS Writing Task 1 questions related to “Employment Sectors in Different Countries,” a topic frequently appearing in the exam. We’ll analyze real exam data, craft a model answer, and equip you with essential vocabulary and grammatical structures to achieve a Band 7+ score.
Sample IELTS Writing Task 1 Question
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
The table below shows changes in employment figures in three different sectors in two countries between 2003 and 2013.
Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.
| Sector | Country | 2003 (%) | 2013 (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Agriculture | Country A | 12 | 5 |
| Country B | 20 | 10 | |
| Manufacturing | Country A | 35 | 25 |
| Country B | 25 | 30 | |
| Service | Country A | 53 | 70 |
| Country B | 55 | 60 |
Write at least 150 words.
Data Analysis
The table illustrates the percentage of employment distribution across three sectors – Agriculture, Manufacturing, and Service – in two countries (Country A and Country B) over a decade (2003-2013).
Model Answer
The provided table reveals the shifting employment patterns in Country A and Country B across three major sectors from 2003 to 2013.
Overall, both countries witnessed a decline in agricultural employment and growth in the service sector. However, Country B experienced an increase in manufacturing jobs, while Country A saw a decrease in this sector.
In 2003, agriculture accounted for 12% and 20% of total employment in Country A and Country B, respectively. By 2013, this figure had plummeted to 5% and 10% respectively. Conversely, the service sector dominated the employment landscape, rising from 53% to 70% in Country A and from 55% to 60% in Country B over the decade.
Interestingly, Country A experienced a significant drop in manufacturing employment, from 35% to 25%, whereas Country B witnessed a moderate increase from 25% to 30% in the same sector during the period.
Word count: 154
Key Points to Remember:
- Paraphrase the question: Begin by paraphrasing the information given in the task. Avoid simply copying the words.
- Overview: Provide a general overview of the main trends shown in the data.
- Group data: Select and group relevant data to support your main points.
- Comparisons: Make clear comparisons where relevant, using comparative language.
- Accurate language: Use appropriate vocabulary to describe trends (e.g., increase, decrease, fluctuate).
- Grammar: Pay attention to grammar, especially tenses when describing changes over time.
Vocabulary:
- Shifting patterns (n.): Changes in trends or structures.
- Account for (v.): To make up a particular amount or proportion of something.
- Plummet (v.): To fall suddenly and steeply.
- Conversely (adv.): In the opposite way.
- Dominate (v.): To be the most important or noticeable feature of something.
- Moderate (adj.): Average in amount or intensity.
Conclusion
Successfully navigating IELTS Writing Task 1 questions about employment sectors requires a clear understanding of data interpretation, accurate language use, and a structured approach. By practicing with real data and applying the techniques outlined here, you’ll be well-equipped to achieve a high band score in your IELTS exam.