©2015 paul read describing maps in task one 17331669/sizes/z/in/photostream

©2015 Paul Read http://www.theenglishsite.com

Describing Maps in Task One

http://www.flickr.com/photos/tosaytheleast/2317331669/sizes/z/in/photostream/


Describing Maps in Task One

• What kind of information is contained in a map?

• What makes a good answer?• How to plan an answer• Worked example• Extra practice

What kind of information is contained in a map?

• Usually shows the same place at two different times

• Usually shows the location of places or things, and how these have changed over time


What makes a good answer?

• The reader must understand what the main differences are between the two times

• You must select the main features: try to divide the picture into 2 or 3 areas or groups of locations

• Write a short introduction to explain what the map shows, without copying from the question

• Write a sentence to summarize the general changes shown by the map

©2015 Paul Read

http://www.theenglishsite.com

How to plan an answer

• Spend a few minutes looking carefully at the map. You will probably need to describe the same place at two or more times.

• Write a brief paragraph to explain to the reader what the writing is about – do not copy the information from the question

• You will probably need to use language of comparison, and the passive voice (...was built... was moved...).

• Try to divide the maps into 2 or 3 sections: areas or types of information (e.g. changes to transport links)

• Remember to include a short summary of the changes shown and don’t speculate about why things were changed.


Worked Example


The maps show the changes that have happened in a town called Paulton between 1990 and 2005.Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features and making comparisons where relevant. Write at least 150 words.

Worked Example - Introduction


The map shows the town on Paulton in two different years (1990 and 2005) and the to its infrastructure that have occured during this time. There were major changes to the transport links and accommodation in Paulton.

Worked Example – Main Body 1


One of the most striking differences between the two years is the increase in transport links to Paulton. In 1990 there was a railway station in the east of the town. By 2005 this had been joined by a ferry terminal next to it, connected with a second railway line. An airfield was also constructed next to the river.

Worked Example – Main Body 2


A second important difference is the amount and style of accommodation available in the city. In 1990 most people lived in houses to the west of the river, with a few houses near the railway station. By 2005, these houses had been replaced by tower blocks, greatly increasing the number of people who could live in Paulton. Houses near to the railway station were removed to make room for the ferry terminal.

Worked Example – Conclusion


In general we see a pattern of large changes to the transport infrastructure and housing facilities in Paulton during this time.

Extra Practice

• Go to The English Site website to find another table writing practice exercise

• Look at some student answers to the exercise and read my comments on these answers


©2015 paul read describing maps in task one 17331669/sizes/z/in/photostream

Documents