Ti

c 9 November 17
im
IELTS
Writing
nh th
2016
no?
DIAGRAMS
101
Cho cc bn,

Mnh l V Hi ng, admin trang

Facebook Ti c 9 im Vit
IELTS v founder ca IELTS Kungfu,
lp luyn thi IELTS do chnh mnh
ging dy.

Cm n cc bn ng h nng
nhit ebook u tin ca mnh, Ti
c 9 im IELTS Writing nh
th no? vi con s n tng 50.000
downloads ch sau hai ngy pht
hnh.

Tip tc vi series Ti c 9 im IELTS Writing nh th no?, ngy hm nay, mnh tip tc gi ti

cc bn mini ebook v Diagrams, dng bi kh nht ca IELTS Writing Task 1. y l n phm ngn gn
vi ch 8 trang l thuyt nhng s trang b cho cc bn phng php hon ton mi v nhng cng c ng
php v t vng hiu qu nht c th chinh phc dng bi kh chu ny.

Ngoi ra, ebook ny cn c 8 bi lun diagrams t band im 8 v 9 bn tham kho. Xin lu , y

KHNG PHI l cc bi lun c vit bi tc gi; ngun tham kho c ghi r trong tng bi. Nhng
bi mu ny c ni dung a dng, cha ng nhng ni dung ng php v t vng hu ch cc bn
ng dng. Hy xem phn gii thch t vng v ng php do IELTS Kungfu bin son di mi bi hiu
thu o.

Chc cc bn thnh cng!

V Hi ng

1
L mt trong 10 ngi Vit Nam c B Ngoi giao Vng quc Anh trao hc bng danh gi
Chevening theo hc kha hc Thc s ti Vng quc Anh nin kha 2008/09

Mt trong t ngi Vit Nam t im 9 k nng Vit, im tuyt i k thi IELTS

Gii NHT cuc thi Vit New Zealand Chn tri mi 2014

im tuyt i [im 10]

trong k thi vit Essay ca
i hc H Ni nm 2004

im tuyt i [im 10]

trong k thi Ni ca i
hc H Ni ngay t nm
u i hc

Gim kho cuc thi Nc

Anh trong mt ti do Hi
ng Anh t chc trong hai
nm 2012/13

Gii T cuc thi sng to Slogan Du lch Vit Nam do Tng cc Du lch t chc nm 2002

Kinh nghim 10 nm dy km IELTS min ph [bt u t khi hc Cp 3]

Bng gii i hc Ngoi ng H Ni

Khch mi ca B Ngoi giao n 2008, B Du lch Malaysia 2007

Gim kho cuc thi nh Ngh trong th k 21 do bo in t VNExpress t chc 2014

Gii thng Ban Gim c khu vc Chu Thi Bnh Dng 2010 [B Ngoi giao Vng quc Anh]

Admin trang Facebook Ti c 9 im Vit IELTS

2
Contents
DIAGRAMS Nhng chin lc chung
Ti sao y li l dng kh chu nht 5
Li khuyn quan trng nht 5
Chin lc chung 6
D hiu, mch lc v r rng 7
Hng dn cch s dng bi mu 7
Hng dn vit M bi, Tng quan v Chi tit bi Diagrams 8
T vng v Ng php cho dng bi Diagrams 9

DIAGRAMS Bi mu
Bi mu 1: Life cycle of the honey bee 14
Bi mu 2: Solar energy 16
Bi mu 3: Hydro electric dam 18
Bi mu 4: Skeleton systems 21
Bi mu 5: Bow tie 24
Bi mu 6: A volcanic island 27
Bi mu 7: A map 30
Bi mu 8: Carbon cycle 33

3
 DIAGRAMS
Nhng chin lc chung

4
Ti sao diagrams li c nh gi l dng bi kh chu nht?
S hay diagrams thng l dng bi thi cc th sinh IELTS ngn nht bi hai l do:

V hnh th, diagrams trng phc tp v nguy him hn charts v graphs.

V ni dung, nhiu khi th sinh nhn vo diagrams v chng bit n l ci g, ting Vit cn
khng hiu, ni g n chuyn miu t bng ting Anh.

Thiu t vng

Li khuyn quan trng nht

Trong qu trnh n luyn, bn tuyt i ng bao gi c bi mu ngay lp tc. Thay vo , bn
cn phi t mnh hiu biu , t lp dn v t vit trc .

Vic ngay lp tc c bi mu cng ging nh vic bn va bt bi ht va ht theo; lc ny, bn

tng thuc bi, nhng hy th tt i i, bn s thy vic t ht khng h n gin, khng
qun ch ny th cng s sai nhc ch khc.

V th, vic ti quan trng l phi t lc cnh sinh.

5
Chin lc chung
ng hc thuc bi mu, trong iu kin thi c cng thng, thng l bn s khng nh c ci
g u, c bit l vn mu

Hy nhn diagram vi tm th nhn mt hnh v thi, 90% cc trng hp, bn s hiu c n l

ci g. Lu , bn cha cn phi ch trng vo vic tm v hiu cc t vng trong diagrams, hy
c xem hnh l chnh thi. Hy nh, nhn hnh v hiu hnh l quan trng nht.

Da vo vic hiu, bn hy t lp dn . Lu , vi nhng s c qu nhiu chi tit v t vng

miu t, bn ng qu i su v cc chi tit. Thay vo , hy ch tp trung vo nhng im chnh
lp dn bi. Bn ng vi dng ting Anh khi lp dn bi, vic dng ting Vit s gip bn tit
kim c thi gian.

Hy t mnh vit first draft (bn u tin) v hy hon thnh n tht nhanh, trnh va vit va sa
ch no khng bit th c tm chn ting Vit vo cng c. Thm ch 90% first draft l ting
Vit cng c.iu quan trng nht l bn ang thc s vit d hc bao nhiu l thuyt m
bn khng thc s cm bt ln vit th cng khng n thua u.

Hy hc thuc lng v hiu bn cht cch dng ca nhng t vng v dng thc ng php ph
bin dnh cho dng bi Diagrams. Chng khng nhiu, rt d hiu v d ng dng hy hc
thuc lng v s dng chnh xc.

6
D hiu, mch lc v r rng
y l tiu ch quan trng nht. Ti sao? n gin l bi, nu bi miu t ca bn cn phc tp
hn ci hnh v th h nhn ci hnh v lun ch c bi ca bn lm g.

Bn hy lm theo nhng li khuyn sau bi vit d hiu, mch lc v r rng:

Chia on r rng, xung dng khi ht mi on
Gii thch nhng ch cn gii thch
t bin bo ng ch (v d: the first diagram, the second diagram)
T ni quy trnh

Hng dn cch s dng bi mu

Thay v ngay lp tc lao vo bi mu hc thuc, n luyn theo phng php mi ny, bn s
s dng bi mu ch sau khi bit mnh thiu g v cn g. Quan trng hn, do bn thuc
diagrams ri, bn s hiu hn vic ti sao ngi ta li b cc bi nh vy, cch thc h miu t
nh th no. Tc l vic c s ch ng hn, thay v c b cun theo mch bi mu.

Hy nh, vic c bi mu Task 1 hon ton khc vi vic c cc vn bn ting Anh bnh
thng khc. Vi cc vn bn ting Anh khc, bn c th c mt cch th ng; trong qu trnh
c, c ci g hay th nh du li m thi. Cn vi bi lun Task 1, bn cn phi c mt frame
sn trong u ri, bn c bi mu ch lp y cc ch trng trong frames m thi.

Khi c bi mu, hy s dng mi s tr gip bao gm t in, thy c, bn b bo m bn

hiu thng sut ng php v t vng s dng. Bn cn phi hiu ton b ng php v t vng
trong bi mu; hy lu rng hiu khng phi l nh. Bn c hiu ht , sau , chn khong 3
cch din t hay nht t bi mu hc thuc.

7
Hng dn vit M bi, Tng quan v Chi tit bi Diagrams
M bi: vit li bi bng ngn ng ca ring mnh

on tng quan:
nu l quy trnh th n bt u bng vic g, kt thc bng vic g, c bao nhiu bc
hon thin quy trnh
nu l my th gm nhng b phn chnh no

Lu : on tng quan ny c th ch cn mt cu v c th gn vi m bi

Thn bi
Do s lin quan ca cc quy trnh, vic bn trnh by tt c cc bc ca quy trnh trong mt
on l hp l. Tuy nhin, bn vn nn tch thnh 2 on thn bi bi lun bt nng n v cu
trc.

8
T vng v Ng php cho dng bi Diagrams
Key words cn thuc lu
Khi miu t diagrams, bn s lun cn n nhng t vng nh quy trnh, cc bc trong quy
trnh, b phn, chi tit cu thnh my mc. Hy hc thuc nhng t sau:

a step: mt bc
a stage: mt giai on
a process: mt quy trnh
a cycle: mt vng tun hon
a detail: mt chi tit
a part/a component: mt b phn

the start/the end of a cycle: im bt u/kt thc quy trnh

The diagram illustrates/describes/shows

The diagram gives a description of.

There are five key steps to complete a full cycle: C nm bc

chnh hon thnh mt vng khp kn
There are four main stages in the development/construction/: C
bn giai on chnh trong s pht trin/trong vic xy.

T ni quy trnh
At/in the first stage,. | At/in the following stage,. | Next, |
Finally,.
then
During the first/second/third/final stage of.

Passives: cu trc b ng
Dng thc b ng c s dng rt nhiu trong IELTS Writing Task 1, th sinh cn nm chc
ng dng. Mt cch nh n gin nht l vi loi ng php ny, ting Anh v ting Vit rt
ging nhau.

Ting Vit: Ti b nh. | Ti c cho tin

Ting Anh: I was beaten. | I was given money.

Nh vy, nu b v c l du hiu ca dng thc b ng trong ting Vit, be l du hiu

ca b ng trong ting Anh. Cng thc ca b ng rt n gin nh sau:

be + past participle of main verb

hiu th no l main verb, chng ta s xem v d di y:

The machine continues to grill bricks at a temperature.

Bricks continue to be grilled at a temperature.

Phn tch: cu trn c 2 ng t, nhng ng t c s dng cho passives l grill v l

hnh ng trc tip tc ng ln s vt y.

9
Thi ca ng t s dng

Hu ht cc diagrams u miu t mt quy trnh lp i lp li, mt hin tng t nhin hay cu

trc my mc. V vy, th sinh nn s dng thi hin ti n gin.

Trong mt s trng hp, th sinh cng c nhu cu s dng thi tng lai; v d: sau khi gch
c nung, chng s c lm ngui trong mt bung ring. Lc ny, bn c th la chn s
dng hai cch sau din t thi tng lai:

After bricks are baked at a temperature, they will be cooled down in a separate chamber.
After bricks are baked at a temperature, they are to be cooled down in a separate chamber.

Cu trc be + to do (ch ng) v be + to be done (b ng) th hin sc thi ngha tng lai
hay trch nhim cn lm. Ci hay ca cu trc ny l y l thi tng lai trn l thuyt, tc l
theo quy trnh , th tip theo, iu g s xy ra, ch khng phi l sc thi tng lai v thi gian.
V c im ny, cu trc be + to do c khuyn khch s dng hn so vi will + do.

Hy xem mt s v d khc:

The city authority is to plant 3,000 trees this year.

Phn tch: (Theo k hoch) thnh ph s trng 3.000 cy xanh trong nm nay. (s th hin k
hoch thc hin, ch khng phi thi tng lai chc chn)

In the next step, the air is to be sucked back into the column to turn the turbine.
Phn tch: Trong bc tip theo, khng kh s b ht li vo trong ng v lm quay tuc bin. (s
th hin s tun t thi gian ch khng phi l thi tng lai.)

Noun phrases

Noun phrase l mnh nhng c s dng trong cu nh mt danh t, tc l c th m

nhn v tr cc ng php nh ch ng hay tn ng (ph bin nht l v tr tn ng). Chng ta hy
xem cc v d sau:

I do not understand why he left the company.

I do not know how to answer this question.

Cc mnh why v how trong hai v d l i tng chu tc ng ca ng t, v th, chng

l tn ng trong cu.

10
Vi bi diagrams, noun phrase bt u bng how, where v when l ph bin nht. Trong cc
v d di y, cc noun phrase u c th c thay th bi mt danh t, chnh l l do gii
thch ci tn noun phrase

how + to do & how clause

The two final steps show how domestic electricity is connected to the external power
supply. (verb + how clause)
The two final steps show the way domestic electricity is connected to the external power
supply. (verb + noun)

where clause
The powerehouse is where the electricity is generated.
The powerhouse is the place where the electricity is generated.

when clause
This is when the process comes to an end.
This is the moment when the process comes to an end.

Mnh tnh ng rt gn

Mnh tnh ng rt gn xut hin gn nh mi lc mi ni trong ting Anh, v vy, bn cn

hiu thu o loi ng php ny s dng chun xc. Mnh tnh ng b sung thng tin cho
danh t; tuy nhin, rt ngn din t cho sc tch, ng php ting Anh c mnh tnh ng rt
gn.

Cn lu , khi mnh tnh ng c rt gn, ng t lun dng v-ing (ch ng) hoc past
participle (b ng) ch khng chia ng t nh thng thng.

The process requires the construction of a large dam connected to a powerhouse. (y :

a large dam which is connected)

water trapped in the reservoir behind the dam is forced through an intake (y : water
which is trapped)

It then flows into a narrow chamber called a penstock (y : a narrow chamber which
is called)

on/in which

on/in which l dng mnh tnh ng rt hu ch cho dng bi diagrams ch s tng quan v
tr gia hai vt c miu t, mang ngha trn /trong

The diagram illustrates a natural process in which a volcanic island grows from beneath the
sea, explodes, and then eventually sinks to become an underwater reef. (S miu t quy
trnh t nhin trong mt o ni la hnh thnh t di mt bin, phun tro v cui cng
li st xung to thnh mt rng ni di mt bin.)

In these regions, people employ a much simpler way to protect houses which is simply to
raise the height of the pillars on which houses stand.

Adjective clauses with which, when, where

11
Bn cn dng which, when, where ni di v tng ni dung thng tin cho cu.

which, when, where rt d s dng v cch dng cng nh ngha ca chng ging ht ting Vit
(ci m, ni, khi.). Chng ta hy xem nhng v d sau:

The process involves a structure which is mounted on the side of a cliff or sea wall. (Quy
trnh bao gm mt cu trc c dng trn vch hoc bin)

In these regions, people employ a much simpler way to protect houses, which is to raise the
height of the pillars on which houses stand. ( nhng ni ny, ngi ta dng mt phng
thc n gin hn bo v nh ca, phng thc tng chiu cao ct nh).

Lu : trong v d trn, trc which c du phy trnh gy nhm ln. Nu khng c

du phy, ngi c c th nhm ln rng which thay cho houses; du phy s gip to
ngn cch ngi c c th hiu rng which thay cho a much simpler way

The life cycle of the honey bee begins when the female adult lays an egg. (Vng i ca
ong mt bt u khi con ci trng).

It is formed of volcanoes and the active ones are at the south-east tip of the archipelago,
where Hawaii itself is located. (N c hnh thnh bi cc ni la v cc ni la ang hot
ng nm ra ng nam ca qun o, ni hnh thnh ln chnh Hawaii).

12
DIAGRAMS
Bi mu

13
Source: IELTS Simon
The diagram shows the life cycle of the honey bee. Two things to consider are:
1. how to summarise the diagram before describing the stages in detail
2. whether to use active or passive verb forms
...

...
nymph = immature form of an insect
moult = shed or lose old feathers, hair or skin to allow for new growth

The diagram illustrates the various stages in the life of a honey bee. We can see that the complete
life cycle lasts between 34 and 36 days. It is also noticeable that there are five main stages in the
development of the honey bee, from egg to mature adult insect.
The life cycle of the honey bee begins when the female adult lays an egg; the female typically lays
one or two eggs every 3 days. Between 9 and 10 days later, each egg hatches and the immature
insect, or nymph, appears.
During the third stage of the life cycle, the nymph grows in size and sheds its skin three times.
This process of moulting first takes place 5 days after the egg hatches, then 7 days later, and
again another 9 days later. After a total of 30 to 31 days from the start of the cycle, the young adult
honey bee emerges from its final moulting stage, and in the space of only 4 days it reaches full
maturity.
(171 words, band 9)

14
Vocabulary and Grammar
mature (adj) | maturity (n): trng thnh
t ngc ngha: immature (adj)

to last (v)
ko di trong bao lu

The drought asted for several months.(Trn hn hn ko di trong nhiu thng)

He's working very efficiently at the moment, but it won't last. (Hin ti th anh ta lm vic rt hiu
qu, nhng chuyn s khng bn u.)

there are five main stages in the development of the honey bee
c nm giai on chnh trong qu trnh pht trin ca ong mt | lu : hy hc thuc cu trc there
is/are. v y l cu trc rt ph bin trong ting Anh

to lay an egg: trng

between 9 and 10 days later: khong 9 n 10 ngy sau

to hatch: (trng) n hoc (p trng n)

Between 50 to 70 percent of the eggs will hatch.
Certain animals hatch their eggs.

to grow in size: pht trin v kch c

to shed its skin: trt b lp o/lp da

This process of moulting first takes place 5 days after.

to moult: thay lng, thay v
first (adv): trc tin
to take place: din ra, xy ra

a total of 30 to 31 days: tng cng 30 cho n 31 ngy

the start/end of the cycle: kt thc mt chu trnh khp kn

to emerge = to appear: xut hin

it reaches full maturity: n giai on trng thnh y

Pronunciation
mature /mtjr/
drought /drat/

15
Source: IELTS Simon
The diagram below shows how solar panels can be used to provide electricity for domestic
use.

The picture illustrates the process of producing electricity in a home using solar panels.
It is clear that there are five distinct stages in this process, beginning with the capture of energy
from sunlight. The final two steps show how domestic electricity is connected to the external power
supply.
At the first stage in the process, solar panels on the roof of a normal house take energy from the
sun and convert it into DC current. Next, this current is passed to an inverter, which changes it to
AC current and regulates the supply of electricity. At stage three, electricity is supplied to the home
from an electrical panel.
At the fourth step shown on the diagram, a utility meter in the home is responsible for sending any
extra electric power outside the house into the grid. Finally, if the solar panels do not provide
enough energy for the household, electricity will flow from the utility grid into the home through the
meter.

16
Vocabulary and Grammar
stage | there are five distinct stages in this process: c nm giai on khc nhau trong quy trnh ny

Mnh tnh ng rt gn | there are five distinct stages in this process, beginning with the capture of
energy from sunlight = there are five distinct stages in this process, which begin with the capture of
energy from sunlight

Grammar: cu nay s dng mnh tnh ng rt gn, ng t trong mnh tnh ng c cn gi

dng th v-ing (ch ng) hoc past participle (b ng)

how + to do & how clause | The two final steps show how domestic electricity is connected to the
external power supply: hai bc cui cng cho thy cch in s dng trong gia nh c kt ni vi
ngun in t bn ngoi

Grammar: how + clause l mt mnh c bit, c chc nng ging ht nh danh t, c th ng sau
ng t vi chc nng tn ng; chng ta hy xem hai v d sau:
The two final steps show how domestic electricity is connected to the external power supply. (verb +
how clause)
The two final steps show the way domestic electricity is connected to the external power supply.
(verb + noun)

convert | to convert energy from the sun into DC current: chuyn nng lng mt tri sang dng in
Grammar: convert sth into sth

T vng quy trnh

At the first stage, | Next, | At stage three, | Finally,: y l nhng t vng quy trnh ph hp cho dng bi
process diagrams

current | AC DC
this current is passed to an inverter, which changes it to AC current and regulates the supply of
electricity: dng in ny c truyn vo b i in, b i in gip bin i dng in ny thnh dng
xoay chiu v iu khin dng cung cp in

current: dng in | DC (direct current): dng in mt chiu | AC (alternating current): dng in xoay
chiu

to supply sth to sth/sb | electricity is supplied to the home: in nng c cung cp cho h gia nh

Grammar: Passives
Dng thc b ng c s dng rt nhiu trong IELTS Writing Task 1, th sinh cn nm chc ng
dng. Mt cch nh n gin nht l vi loi ng php ny, ting Anh v ting Vit rt ging nhau.

Ting Vit: Ti b nh. | Ti c cho tin

Ting Anh: I was beaten. | I was given money.

Nh vy, nu b v c l du hiu ca dng thc b ng trong ting Vit, be l du hiu ca b

ng trong ting Anh.
Lu
bi ny l mt v d v vic bi sn c h thng t vng kh y ri. Th sinh ch
vic lp nhng t vng thnh cu hon chnh bng ng php v t ni quy trnh m thi.

17
Source: IELTS Academic

The diagram shows how electricity is generated by a hydroelectric dam.

Write a 150-word report for a university lecturer explaining how the process works.

Bi mu 8.0 (163 words)

The diagram illustrates the basic principles of hydroelectric power. The process requires the
construction of a large dam connected to a powerhouse. The dam creates a large reservoir and
the powerhouse is where the electricity is generated.
First of all, water trapped in the reservoir behind the dam is forced through an intake. It then flows
into a narrow chamber called a penstock, where the resulting high pressure turns a turbine. The
turbine is connected to a generator in the powerhouse above, and this is where the movement of
the turbine is converted into electricity. The resulting electricity leaves the powerhouse via cables
that carry it over long distances to where it can be used.
It is interesting to note that a hydroelectric dam creates no harmful byproducts and relies entirely
on natural forces to produce electricity. After the turbine stage, water flows out through a second
channel and into a river. The process is renewable, thanks to the water cycle in nature.

18
Vocabulary and Grammar
a hydroelectric dam: p thy in

to require sth | The process requires the construction of a large dam connected to a powerhouse. (Quy
trnh i hi vic xy dng mt con p ln c kt ni vi nh my in.)

noun phrase where clause | the powerhouse is where the electricity is generated (nh my in l ni
in c to ra).

Grammar: where + clause l mt mnh c bit, c chc nng ging ht nh danh t, c th ng sau
ng t vi chc nng tn ng; chng ta hy xem hai v d sau:
The powerehouse is where the electricity is generated.
The powerhouse is the place where the electricity is generated.

Mnh tnh ng rt gn
Trong mt bi ngn nh th ny m c ti hn 4 cu s dng mnh tnh ng rt gn. iu ny cho thy
tm quan trng ca n.

The process requires the construction of a large dam connected to a powerhouse.

water trapped in the reservoir behind the dam is forced through an intake
It then flows into a narrow chamber called a penstock

ng t trong mnh tnh ng c cn gi dng th v-ing (ch ng) hoc past participle (b ng).
Cc v d trn ng t u l past participle, th hin dng thc b ng.

resulting (adj)
Tnh t ny th hin ngha mt s vt, hin tng sinh ra t kt qu ca mt quy trnh hoc l do trnh
by trc .
Water then flows into a narrow chamber called a penstock, where the resulting high pressure turns
a turbine. (Nc s chy vo bung cha nh, c gi l penstock, to nn p sut cao quay
tuc bin.)

The turbine is connected to a generator in the powerhouse above, and this is where the movement
of the turbine is converted into electricity. The resulting electricity leaves the powerhouse via cables
that carry it over long distances to where it can be used. (Tuc bin ny kt ni vi my pht in
trong nh my pha trn, v y l ni m chuyn ng ca tuc bin c chuyn thnh in
nng. in nng sinh ra ny i ra khi nh my thng qua cp truyn ti in, nhng si dy cp
ny s a in qua nhng khong cch di, ti nhng ni chng c s dng).

over | gii t over c dng vi khong cch v c khng gian v thi gian
over long distances
over the years

harmful byproducts: nhng sn phm ph c hi

Pronunication
chamber /tem.br/
Notes
Di y l hai cu cn trnh trong bi IELTS Writing Task 1 v n nu ra nhn nh nm ngoi ni dung
c sn ca . y l iu khng cn thit; nguy him hn, nhn nh c th sai v mt khoa hc v
thc t.

It is interesting to note that a hydroelectric dam creates no harmful byproducts and relies entirely on natural
forces to produce electricity. The process is renewable, thanks to the water cycle in nature.

19
Why does this Task 1 answer get an IELTS Band 8 score?
Task achievement: The introduction paraphrases the question and describes the constituent
parts of the process. The body describes each stage of the process in sequence.
Coherence and cohesion: The model answer has an introduction, body and conclusion.
Sequencing expressions such as first of all, then and after are used appropriately. The
articles a and the are used effectively to introduce and refer back to different elements of the
process.
Lexical resource: The labels in the diagram are well integrated into the model answer and
appropriate verbs such as converted, flows and leaves are used throughout. Less-common words
such as byproducts and renewable are introduced by the writer. Spelling is always accurate.
Grammatical range and accuracy: The writer uses the present simple tense and has good
control of subject-verb agreement and active/passive forms. A good balance of simple and
complex sentences is used throughout.

Teachers Notes
This IELTS Writing Task 1 question asks you to describe a process. Usually
the process diagram will include some technical vocabulary. The challenge
is how well you can integrate the vocabulary into a coherent report. The
examiner is also looking at how you use sequencing expressions to show
the order of events. Finally, remember that most processes happen at any
time, so use only the present simple tense.
Would you like me to check your IELTS writing answers and give you
expert feedback based on the official scoring criteria? My
online IELTS Writing Practice Test will show you how to improve by a whole band score in
just two days. Read more.

20
Source: IELTS Academic

The diagram shows the skeletal systems of two ancestors of modern human beings.
Write a 150-word report for a university lecturer describing the diagram and making
comparisons where relevant.

Bi mu 9.0 (183 words)

Variations in the skeletal systems of two early types of human are illustrated in this diagram.
Overall, we can see that australopithecus afarensis had a heavier body and much longer arms,
while homo erectus was slimmer and had more developed joints.
To begin with the upper half of the body, australopithecus afarensis had a much broader chest and
waist than homo erectus, giving it a rounder appearance. The former had much longer arms and
larger hands, which would have been useful for climbing trees.
As for the lower half of the body, we can see that homo erectus had proportionately longer legs
and larger hip, knee and ankle joints. The feet of homo erectus were also smaller and more
arched, with shorter toes. These differences meant that homo erectus was better suited to long-
distance running.
In conclusion, we can see significant changes in the development of early humans from the
diagram. Homo erectus is more similar to contemporary human beings with its long legs and
arched feet. The physical differences are clearly related to differences in the lifestyles of tree
climbers and endurance runners.

Vocabulary and Grammar

21
Tnh t so snh
Bi ny dng trit dng thc so snh ca tnh t, theo , cc tnh t ngn s gn hu t -er
cn tnh t di s thm more pha trc.

Short adjectives Long adjectives

a heavier body more developed joints
longer arms
slimmer joints
larger hips

tng sc thi so snh, trng t c s dng v t pha trc tnh t.

much longer arms: cnh tay di hn nhiu
proportionately longer legs: chn di hn cn i theo t l

t bin bo ng ch: bi ny c b cc thnh hai on thn bi, tng ng vi miu t

na trn v na di ca c th. Mt cch to ra s mch lc l t bin bo ngay t u
on vn.
to begin with the upper half of the body,
As for the lower half of the body,
Notes
y l mt bi mu rt thng minh v quyt on khi i mt vi qu nhiu chi tit trong hnh
v. Thay v b hnh v dt mi, ngi vit ch ng nhn vo hnh v t tm ra im khc bit. Khi
, ngi vit cng cm thy d dng hn v khng b ri bi qu nhiu gii thch trn s .

Why does this Task 1 answer get an IELTS Band 9 score?

Task achievement: The model answer selects only the most important information from the Task
1 diagram and uses this to make several direct comparisons. The model answer also explains the
link between the creatures respective lifestyles and their physical differences. The model answer
is more than 150 words.
Coherence and cohesion: The model answer is divided into clear paragraphs with a logical
separation between the body paragraphs. There is a general overview in paragraph 1 and a
summary in paragraph 4. A reference link, the former, is used to avoid over-repetition of complex
scientific names.
Lexical resource: The model answer adds more vocabulary not in the diagram such
as lifestyle,proportionately, suited, appearance and contemporary. There are many examples of
paraphrasing including wide> broad and endurance > long-distance.
Grammatical range and accuracy: The model answer uses a range of comparative structures
accurately. The model answer also uses a range of grammatical forms to produce complex
sentences. These include clauses beginning with with, which and -ing forms.

Teachers Notes
You might panic when you see this IELTS Writing Task 1 diagram due to
the number of words. However, it isnt necessary to describe every feature.
Instead, highlight only the most interesting points for comparison. In this
22
example, we would definitely want to mention the width of the body and the length of the legs. A
high-scoring answer will also include some kind of overview or general statement. In this case, the
physical differences between our ancestors are clearer connected to their different lifestyles, as
mentioned in the headings.

Would you like me to check your IELTS writing answers and give you expert feedback
based on the official scoring criteria? My online IELTS Writing Practice Test will show you
how to improve by a whole band score in just two days. Read more.

23
Source: IELTS Academic

The illustration below shows the process of tying a bow tie.Write a report explaining
to a university lecturer how to tie his bow tie.
Write at least 150 words.

Bi mu 9.0 (152 words)

The diagram illustrates how to knot a bow tie in eight stages.

To begin with, the tie should be placed around the neck, with one end slightly longer than the
other. Then place the longer end over the other and pass it upwards and behind the point where
the two ends cross.

Next, take the other end of the tie and bend it twice to form an S shape. Bring the longer end
down and in front, so that it holds the S curve in place. Now comes the trickiest part of the
process. Take the long end of the tie and form a similar S shape before passing it through the
narrow gap behind the other end. This creates a knot and the bow should now be held securely in
place.

Finally, adjust both sides of the bow to make it symmetrical and prepare to be the envy of your
friends.

24
Vocabulary and Grammar
knot a bow tie: tht n

noun phrase: how + to do & how clause

how + clause l mt mnh c bit, c chc nng ging ht nh danh t, c th ng sau
ng t vi chc nng tn ng; chng ta hy xem hai v d sau:
The diagram illustrates how to knot a bow tie.
The diagram illustrates the way to knot a bow tie.

Khuyt ch ng
Cu sau trong bi khng c ch ng: Then place the longer end over the other; v y l vn
phong hng dn dng nh do this, do that nn vit nh vy l chp nhn c.

o ng | Now comes the trickiest part of the process. = The trickiest part of the process comes
now. (o ng gip tng sc thi nhn mnh cho ny.)

Make sb/stjh make sb/sth adj | to make it symmetrical: cho n cn i

Notes
y l mt bi kh v nhng l do sau:
Diagrams khng c t gi , tt c t vng c s dng phi nm trong vn t ca th
sinh
Vi nhiu ngi cha tng tht bow tie th c th s chng hiu g, k c c bi mu

Why does this Task 1 answer get an IELTS Band 9 score?

Task achievement: The model answer fully satisfies all requirements of the task by describing
each stage in the process.

Coherence and cohesion: The model answer uses a range of sequencing expressions to
describe the order in which the actions should be carried out. The answer is divided into several
paragraphs for ease of understanding, with the inclusion of a general sentence Now comes the
trickiest part of the process to aid coherence.

Lexical resource: A range of appropriate vocabulary is introduced, including action verbs such
as knot, bend,pass and adjust.

Grammatical range and accuracy: The correct forms imperatives, modals are used to give
instructions. Sentence patterns vary and are always grammatically accurate.

Teachers Notes
As I mentioned in my introduction above, this IELTS Writing Task 1
question is not entirely serious. It would be quite shocking to have to
describe a process like this one in the real exam. It does illustrate a serious
25
point though. Almost every diagram in IELTS Writing Task 1 contains some vocabulary in the form
of labels. The vocabulary is there to help you, not to make the task more complex. So be grateful
for all those labels!

Would you like me to check your IELTS writing answers and give you expert feedback
based on the official scoring criteria? My online IELTS Writing Practice Test will show you
how to improve by a whole band score in just two days. Read more.

26
Source: IELTS Academic

The diagram shows the growth cycle of a volcanic island. Write a 150-word report
for a university lecturer describing the main features of the cycle.

Bi mu 9.0 (194 words)

The diagram illustrates a natural process in which a volcanic island grows from beneath the sea,
explodes, and then eventually sinks to become an underwater reef. The process is divided into
nine stages.

In the first two stages, called the preshield and protoshield stages, a mountain gradually builds
under the surface of the sea. In the third or explosive phase, hydro-explosions occur which
deposit a cone of ash. A large number of cinder cones then pile up to form a shield on top of the
volcano.

This shield gradually erodes and subsides to form reefs below the surface of the sea. However,
there may be ongoing volcanic activity including lava flows. By the time of the coral atoll stage,
the original form of the volcano has disappeared, and the whole structure sinks further under the
sea during the guyot stage.

In summary, huge volcanoes rise and fall under the sea in a natural process known as the
volcanic island growth cycle.

(194 words, IELTS 9.0)

Vocabulary and Grammar
27
in which
on/in which l dng mnh tnh ng rt hu ch cho dng bi diagrams ch s tng quan
v tr gia hai vt c miu t, mang ngha trn /trong

The diagram illustrates a natural process in which a volcanic island grows from beneath the sea,
explodes, and then eventually sinks to become an underwater reef. (S miu t quy trnh t
nhin trong mt o ni la hnh thnh t di mt bin, phun tro v cui cng li st xung
to thnh mt rng ni di mt bin.)

Miu t chuyn ng bng kt hp nhiu gii t

Trong dng bi miu t s , vic th sinh c th dng thun thc gii t miu t l rt quan
trng v n to ra s sinh ng cho bi vit. Hy lu rng c nhiu trng hp gii t ch v tr
c th kt hp vi nhau to ra s lin tc ca chuyn ng.

Hy xem mt s v d di y.
The air is pushed upwards into the column.(khng kh b y ln trn, i vo trong ct)
A volcanic island grows from beneath the sea(o ni la mc ln t di bin)

S dng linh hot cc dng khc nhau ca mt t

Th sinh s c th trnh vic lp t bng vic s dng linh hot cc dng khc nhau ca mt t
Erosion and subsistence stage
This shield gradually erodes and subsides to form reefs.
Pronunciation
island /a.lnd/

Why does this Task 1 answer get an IELTS band 9 score?

Task achievement: The candidate describes a complex nine-part natural process in fewer than
200 words by grouping some stages together and leaving out small details where possible. The
introduction includes an overall description that clearly signals what the body of the report will
contain.

Coherence and cohesion: The body of the report groups the natural process into two paragraphs
rather than attempt to describe each of the nine stages separately. Events are clearly sequenced
and summarised.

Lexical resource: The candidate uses vocabulary from the diagram but transforms it where
necessary to fit a sentence: erosion > erodes; subsidence > subsides. The model answer also
introduces other relevant vocabulary not in the diagram such as deposits, surface and structure.

Grammatical range and accuracy: The candidate writes in complex sentences using
conjunctions and relative pronouns. Most of the sentences have multiple clauses. There are no
grammatical mistakes. In addition to the present simple tense, the present perfect tense is used to
show how events are related in time: the original form of the volcano has disappeared.

28
Teachers Notes
This natural process diagram includes nine stages, which are difficult to
describe in detail in so few words. Therefore, you should take this
opportunity to practice grouping stages together and summarising where
possible. Its not a good idea to write nine sentences to describe each of the
nine stages. You will simply not have the time. Writing skills like grouping
and summarising will come in very handy in the real test.

Would you like me to check your IELTS writing answers and give you expert feedback
based on the official scoring criteria? My online IELTS Writing Practice Test will show you
how to improve by a whole band score in just two days. Read more.

29
Source: IELTS Academic

The diagram shows proposed changes to Foster Road.

Write a 150-word report describing the proposed changes for a local committee.

Bi mu 9.0 (152 words)

The diagram shows proposals to transform Foster Road between SE 84th and 85th Avenue into a
tree-lined avenue that is safer for pedestrians and cyclists.
First of all, the planners propose to widen the sidewalk on both sides of the road and add bicycle
lanes. This will mean reducing the number of lanes for cars and other vehicles. A pedestrian
crossing will also be installed at the lower end of the street, near the gas station. This crossing will
include an island in the middle where people can wait in safety.
In addition to the safety measures above, planners also want to plant trees along both sides of the
road. These trees will transform the appearance of the neighbourhood as well as provide vital
extra shade for pedestrians.
To summarise, under these proposals, the needs of local residents will be better served by making
Foster Road a safer and more pleasant environment.
Vocabulary and Grammar
30
a proposal = a plan: bn d n xut

to transform sth into sth: bin i ci g thnh ci g (thng l theo hng tt ln)

a tree-lined avenue: con ph c hng cy hai bn

a pedestrian: ngi i b

a cyclist: ngi p xe

the planners: nhng ngi xut quy hoch

to propose to do sth: xut lm vic g

to widen the sidewalk/pavement: m rng va h

a bicycle lane: ln i dnh cho xe p

this will mean reducing the number of lanes for cars and other vehicles: iu ny s ng ngha vi
vic gim s lng ln ng dnh cho xe t v cc phng tin khc

Lu : the number of sth mang ngha s lng ca ci g cn a number of sth mang ngha nhiu, s
lng ln

a pedestrian crossing = a zebra crossing: ng vch trng dnh cho ngi i b qua ng

sth be installed | to install sth: ci g c lp t | lp t ci g

people can wait in safety: mi ngi c th ng i an ton

safety measures: cc bin php bo m an ton

to transform the appearance of sth: thay i din mo ca mt ni

a neighbourhood: mt khu vc dn c nht nh

shade (n): bng mt

to summarise,: (t ni) kt lun l,

under these proposals/plans = according to these proposals/plans: theo cc k hoch, quy hoch ny

the needs of local residents will be better served by making Foster Road a safer and more pleasant
environment: nhu cu ca ngi dn a phng s c p ng tt hn bng vic bin Foster Road
thnh mt mi trng an ton hn v d chu hn.

Grammar:
passive: the needs + be + better served
by + doing sth: by l t ni rt hu ch mang ngha thng qua, bng vic lm g
make noun 1 + noun 2

31
Why does this Task 1 answer get an IELTS Band 9 score?
Task achievement: The candidate writes at least 150 words and describes all of the proposed
changes. The changes are summarised at the beginning and end, and described in detail in the
body of the report. The changes are connected to their function and their location on the map is
also clearly described.
Coherence and cohesion: The body of the report is divided into two paragraphs, one describing
the changes that will improve safety, and another describing changes that will improve the
environment. These paragraphs are clearly linked (In addition to the safety measures above,).
There are several uses of reference links such asthis and these to refer back to a previous
sentence.
Lexical resource: The candidate introduces relevant vocabulary not on the original maps such as
pedestrian, cyclist, measures, and tree-lined. The candidate transforms certain words as
in proposed > proposal andinstallation > installed. There are no spelling mistakes.
Grammatical range and accuracy: The model answer includes a range of complex sentence
structures. Tense is always used correctly to show that the changes will occur in the future. There
are no grammatical errors.

Teachers Notes
When describing changes to a map in IELTS Writing Task 1, you will
usually start by comparing the diagrams, identify four or five changes that
seem important, and write about these. But its worth taking 1-2 minutes
first to reflect on why the changes are significant and if there is a common
theme or themes. Being able to identify a common theme or tendency is
one way to get a high score for Task Achievement.
Would you like me to check your IELTS writing answers and give you
expert feedback based on the official scoring criteria? My
online IELTS Writing Practice Test will show you how to improve by a whole band score in
just two days. Read more.

32
IELTS Writing Task 1: Question
The diagram below illustrates the carbon cycle in nature.
Write a 150-word description of this diagram for a university lecturer.

The National Center for Atmospheric Research

Bi mu 8.0 (154 words)

The diagram shows how carbon moves through various stages to form a complete cycle. This
report will give a brief description of the main stages in this cycle.

First, we can see that energy from the sun is transformed into organic carbon through a process in
plants known as photosynthesis. This organic carbon is then transferred underground when
plants, and the animals that feed on them, die and decay. Some of this carbon is trapped
underground in the form of fossils and fossil fuels.

Carbon is also released back into the atmosphere, however, through various means. One is when
animals and plants respire, and another is when humans burn fossil fuels in cars and factories. All
this carbon enters the atmosphere as CO2. It is then reabsorbed by plants, and the cycle begins
again.

Overall, we can see that carbon moves in a natural cycle, although human factors may now be
affecting the balance.

Vocabulary and Grammar

33
carbon moves through various stages: cc bon di chuyn qua nhiu giai on

to form a complete cycle: to ra mt vng tun hon khp kn

to give a brief description of sth = to describe sth briefly: miu t ci g

energy from the sun = solar energy: nng lng mt tri

to transform sth into sth | sth be transformed into sth: bin i ci g thnh ci g (thng l
theo hng tt ln)

a process in plants known as photosynthesis: mt quy trnh trong thc vt, cy c c bit
n vi tn gi quang hp
Grammar: mnh tnh ng rt gn a process in plants which is known as

transfer sth | sth be transferred: vn chuyn ci g i u

transfer sth underground: vn chuyn ci g xung lng t

to feed on sth: (ng vt) n.

decay (v): phn hy

sth be trapped underground: ci g b gi li di lng t

in the form of sth: theo dng thc ca ci g

fossils: ha thch

fossil fuels: nhin liu ha thch

release sth | sth be released: pht tn ci g | ci g c pht tn

Carbon is also released back into the atmosphere (Cc bon c pht tn ra kh quyn)

through various means: thng qua nhiu phng tin khc nhau

to respire: ht th, h hp

sth enter the atmosphere: ci g xm nhp vo kh quyn

absorb/reabsorb sth: ht ci g

a natural cycle: mt vng tun hon t nhin

a human factor: mt yu t con ngi

to affect sth: nh hng, tc ng xu n ci g

balance (n): s cn bng

Why does this Task 1 answer get an IELTS Band 8 score?

34
Task achievement: The model answer selects and describes most components of the cycle
diagram except for waste products and ocean uptake. There is an overall description of the cycle
followed by a clearly sequenced and divided description of the stages. The summary identifies
something noteworthy about the diagram. The length is sufficient.

Coherence and cohesion: The model answer is divided into clear paragraphs with a logical
separation between the body paragraphs and connective markers first, then, however, and overall.
There is a general overview in paragraph 1 and a summary in paragraph 4. Referencing
techniques such as ellipsis (one is) are used to avoid over-repetition of key words.

Lexical resource: The writer makes good use of the language in the cycle diagram and is also
able to change forms in the case of respiration > respire. The writer also introduces a range of
verbs for describing a process or cycle such as transform, transfer and release.

Grammatical range and accuracy: The model answer uses a wide range of forms accurately
including countable/uncountable nouns, active/passive structures, and transitive/intransitive verbs.

Teachers Notes
Cycle diagrams are almost always natural processes: nature is one big
wheel after all. Usually you will find that the labels on the diagram contains
lots of unfamiliar scientific nouns. If you think you know the verb forms, then
use them as this will definitely contribute to a higher score. Otherwise youll
have to rely on phrases such as in a process known as Animal
Respiration.

Would you like me to check your IELTS writing answers and give you expert feedback
based on the official scoring criteria? My online IELTS Writing Practice Test will show you
how to improve by a whole band score in just two days. Read more.

35