Understanding how to write a strong response to a bar graph in IELTS Writing Task 1 is essential for achieving a Band 7.0 or higher. In this post, we’ll explore a sample bar graph task, a model Band 7.0 response, and highlight advanced grammatical structures and high-scoring vocabulary.
Task Description
The bar chart below shows the percentage of adults in four countries (USA, UK, Canada, and Australia) who engaged in regular physical activity in 2010, 2015, and 2020.
Summarize the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.
Sample Band 7.0 Report
The bar chart illustrates the proportion of adults who participated in regular physical activity in the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia during the years 2010, 2015, and 2020.
Overall, all four countries experienced an upward trend in physical activity rates over the decade, with the most significant growth occurring in the UK. While the USA consistently had the highest percentages, Australia remained the lowest across all years.
In 2010, approximately 52% of American adults were physically active, which slightly rose to around 55% in 2020. Similarly, the UK saw a marked increase from 45% in 2010 to nearly 60% by 2020. Canada showed a moderate rise from 48% to 53%, whereas Australia’s figures remained lower, increasing from 41% in 2010 to just under 50% a decade later.
It is noteworthy that while all countries saw improvements, the rate of increase varied. The UK demonstrated the most substantial growth of roughly 15 percentage points, whereas Australia’s increase was more modest.
High-Level Grammar Features
- Complex Sentences and Subordination
- “While the USA consistently had the highest percentages, Australia remained the lowest…”
- “It is noteworthy that while all countries saw improvements…”
- Passive Voice
- “The bar chart illustrates…”
- “…was observed in all countries…”
- Cohesive Devices
- “Similarly,” “whereas,” “It is noteworthy that,” “Overall,” “In comparison,” “By contrast”
- Nominalization
- “The rate of increase,” “a marked increase,” “a moderate rise”
High-Level Vocabulary
| Basic Word | High-Scoring Alternative |
|---|---|
| Increase | Rise, Growth, Surge, Climb |
| Decrease | Decline, Drop, Fall, Reduction |
| Stay the same | Remain stable, Plateau |
| About | Approximately, Around |
| Shows | Illustrates, Depicts, Portrays |
Phrases Used in the Sample:
- “a marked increase”
- “experienced an upward trend”
- “proportion of adults”
- “remained the lowest”
- “most substantial growth”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake | Fix |
|---|---|
| Repeating the same words (e.g., “shows,” “increased”) | Use synonyms and varied structures |
| Not comparing figures | Always include comparative or superlative forms |
| Including irrelevant information | Stick to the years, countries, and activity rates |
| Misusing tenses | Use past simple for completed events (e.g., 2010) |
Do’s and Don’ts
Do:
- Use data grouping and comparisons
- Vary your vocabulary and sentence structures
- Use approximations (e.g., around, nearly, just over)
Don’t:
- Give personal opinions
- Describe every data point in detail
- Forget the overview paragraph
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use bullet points in IELTS Writing Task 1?
A: No. The task requires a formal, continuous paragraph style.
Q: Do I need to mention every number?
A: No. Focus on major trends and significant differences.
Q: Is it okay to estimate numbers (e.g., around 50%)?
A: Yes. Approximations are encouraged where exact data is not critical.
Top Tips for Band 7.0
- Begin with a clear paraphrase of the task.
- Group similar data together to avoid listing.
- Use at least 2–3 complex structures per paragraph.
- Avoid copying phrases directly from the prompt.
- Include an insightful overview.
Final Thoughts
To achieve a Band 7.0 or higher in IELTS Writing Task 1, especially for bar graphs, you must demonstrate a balance of accurate data reporting, comparison, clear structure, varied vocabulary, and sophisticated grammar. Practice with real visuals and analyze sample answers like this one to develop your skills.
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