Mastering Writing Task 1

Today, I want to focus on Task 1 of the writing component.

You will be asked to write a summary consisting of 150 words on information presented in the question. This could be:

• pie charts

• bar charts

• line graphs

• tables

• flow charts

• diagrams

• maps

Therefore, it is important that you practise each of these types. The structure of these tasks is important. Follow the structure below and you will definitely impress the examiners:

Paragraph One:

Here, you should say what information is presented. Use the rubric from the question to help you but don't copy! For example...

• The pie charts illustrate the percentage of pupils who participated in a varied range of extracurricular activities; namely, tennis, football, art, debating and dance. A comparison is given between both genders and between the years, 2010 and 2020.

From my example above, you can see that I've tried to give synonyms (illustrate instead of show). This is important and will show the examiners that you have a varied range of vocabulary.

You don't need to include anything more here.

Paragraph Two/Three:

Now, you can start to present your main findings. Remember:

• Separate your data/information into paragraphs in the main body. This is important as otherwise, you will not score very highly for Cohesion. The difference between a band 6 and a band 7 for Cohesion is good paragraphing and linking devices. If you write one huge paragraph for your main body then you are not going to score higher than a band 5 or 6 for Cohesion.

• Make sure you write about everything! If you miss any information out, then you will not get higher than a band 6 for Task Response.

Paragraph Four:

Now you need to include an Overall Summary where you summarise the main trends. Some people choose to place this just after their introduction - that is ok too. If you choose to do this then, you only need to write a sentence for a quick conclusion.

However, you may decide to write your Overall Summary as part of your conclusion. This is often much easier and a neater way of finishing. Either way, whichever position you choose, the Overall Summary is VITAL! It makes such a difference to the band you get for Task Response:

• No Overall Summary = You won't get higher than a band 5 for Task Response

• At least 1 -2 Sentences for the Overall Summary = Band 6 for Task Response

• At least 3 Sentences for the Overall Summary = Band 7 or above for Task Response

Something to watch out for is giving your opinion. In Writing Task 1, your response should be purely factual. You must never give your opinion as you will not get higher than a band 6 for Task response. For example, "Female pupils enjoyed participating in tennis as they like the interaction." This is an opinion - you have no way of knowing this information.

That's all for today. I hope you have found this useful. Do comment below if you have any questions!