Academic Writing Task 1 · mixed chart

Diagrams illustrating the Eiffel Tower and its proposed underground extension: IELTS Writing Task 1 sample answer

An IELTS Writing Task 1 mixed chart question with a Band 8 sample answer, the chart redrawn with its data, the vocabulary that lifts the report and how to write about mixed charts.
  • 189 words
  • Mixed charts
  • Academic
  • 20 minutes

The question

The diagrams below give information about the Eiffel Tower in Paris and an outline project to extend it underground.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant. Write at least 150 words.

Location of the Eiffel Tower in Paris

Paris Map

  • Eiffel Tower: West
  • Ecole Militaire: South-West
  • Seine River: North
  • Madeleine: North-East
  • Opera: North-East
  • Louvre Pyramid: East
  • Invalides: South-East
Eiffel Tower Underground Extension
  1. 1.Current structure height 324m
  2. 2.Total weight 10,100 tonnes
  3. 3.First level height 57m
  4. 4.Second level height 115m
  5. 5.Proposed underground extension with glass ceiling

Chart redrawn by BandLadder from the data in the original IELTS practice task. Many IELTS practice tasks come from the Cambridge IELTS series (Cambridge University Press & Assessment); all rights in the original tasks remain with their owners.

Model answer

Band 8 sample answer

Band 8189 words. Every figure in the answer comes from the chart above.

The provided diagrams illustrate the geographical location of the Eiffel Tower within Paris and outline a design proposal to extend the monument underground. The map highlights the tower's position in the western part of the city, situated near the Seine River and the Ecole Militaire, while other landmarks like the Louvre and the Opera are located further east.

The second diagram details the physical specifications of the Eiffel Tower, which stands at a height of 324 metres and has a total weight of 10,100 tonnes. The structure features two distinct observation levels, with the first located at 57 metres and the second at 115 metres above the ground.

The proposed extension project involves creating a multi-level underground complex directly beneath the tower's base. This design incorporates a glass ceiling at ground level, which would allow natural light to penetrate the subterranean floors. The extension appears to consist of several levels, potentially providing additional space for visitors or facilities while maintaining the iconic silhouette of the tower above. Overall, the project represents a significant architectural intervention designed to increase the capacity of this historic site without altering its external appearance.

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Mixed charts

How to write about mixed charts: tips and vocabulary

  • →Write one overview sentence that links the two visuals.
  • →Give each visual its own detail paragraph.
  • →Point out where one chart explains the other.
  • prominent

    important, famous, or noticeable to most people

  • subterranean

    existing, occurring, or done under the earth's surface

  • specifications

    a detailed description of the design and materials

  • intervention

    the process of becoming involved in a situation

  • silhouette

    the dark shape and outline of someone or something

  • situated

    fixed or built in a certain place or position

Frequently asked questions

What should the overview say?+

The Eiffel Tower is a prominent landmark in western Paris, and the proposed project aims to expand its utility by constructing a multi-level underground facility beneath the existing structure.

How many words and how long for IELTS Writing Task 1?+

At least 150 words; 170 to 200 is the safe range. Spend about 20 minutes on it and leave 40 for Task 2, which carries twice the marks.

How is IELTS Writing Task 1 scored?+

On four criteria: task achievement, coherence and cohesion, vocabulary, and grammatical range and accuracy. A clear overview of the main features is what most separates Band 6 from Band 7 and above.

How do I describe mixed charts?+

Write one overview sentence that links the two visuals. Give each visual its own detail paragraph. Point out where one chart explains the other.

Keep practising

More mixed charts

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