As an IELTS instructor with over two decades of experience, I often encounter students grappling with the same question: “What tense should I use when describing maps in IELTS Speaking Part 2?” This is a valid concern, as using the correct tenses is crucial for demonstrating your grammatical range and accuracy, directly impacting your overall band score.
Understanding the Significance of Tenses in Map Description
In the IELTS Speaking test, particularly in Part 2 where you might be asked to describe a map showing changes over time, accurate tense usage paints a clear picture of the scenario for the examiner. It reflects your ability to articulate the chronology of events – whether something was present in the past, is currently in existence, or will be a feature in the future.
Deciphering the Time Frame and Selecting the Appropriate Tenses
The key to choosing the right tense lies in correctly identifying the time frame presented in the map task. Let’s break it down:
1. Describing the Past:
-
Simple Past Tense: Use this tense to describe features that existed in the past but are no longer present.
- Example: “There used to be a market area in the northwest corner.”
-
Past Perfect Tense: Employ this tense to highlight an action completed before another past action or time in the past.
- Example: “The park had been expanded before the new housing development was built.”
2. Describing the Present:
-
Simple Present Tense: Use this tense to describe features that currently exist.
- Example: “The town is situated on the east bank of the river.”
-
Present Perfect Tense: Use this to indicate changes that started in the past and continue to the present.
- Example: “The main road has been pedestrianised in recent years.”
3. Describing the Future (If Applicable):
-
Future Simple Tense: Utilize this tense for predicted or planned changes.
- Example: “A new sports centre will be constructed next to the school.”
-
Future Perfect Tense: Use this to indicate an action that will be completed by a specific time in the future.
- Example: “By 2025, the old factory will have been transformed into a museum.”
Illustrative Examples from Real IELTS Maps
Let’s analyze a scenario: You’re presented with two maps, one depicting a town center in 1990 and the other showing the same town center in the present day.
- Past: “In 1990, the area had limited green spaces. A small park was located near the library, but it was quite small.”
- Present: “Currently, the town center boasts a much greener environment. The park has been significantly enlarged, and a new pedestrian zone has been created along the main shopping street.”
Essential Tips for Map Description Success:
- Analyze the Maps Carefully: Before you begin speaking, take a moment to understand the time frame presented and the types of changes depicted.
- Use a Variety of Tenses: Avoid sticking to just one or two tenses. Demonstrate your grammatical range by using a mix of past, present, and future tenses (if applicable).
- Practice Makes Perfect: Familiarize yourself with different map types and practice describing them using appropriate tenses.
Remember, using the correct tenses in your IELTS map description is not just about grammatical accuracy; it’s about effectively conveying the story behind the changes, painting a vivid picture for the examiner, and ultimately, achieving your desired band score.