Task 1 Writing IELTS Sample Answer Map - LA Freeways

IELTS Task 1 Writing - Los Angeles' Freeways

• Map
• Comparing two past times
• Comparing visual information

Before You Read

1. What kind of overview could you include?
2. What tenses will you need to use?

The development of freeways in and around Los Angeles from 1995 to 2005

Sample Answer

The two figures show the change in highway development in the Los Angeles area between 1955 and 2005. It can clearly be seen that while in general more freeways were constructed throughout the city of Los Angeles, the largest proportion were built to the South East of the city.

In 1955, there were few highways in the area. The longest ran from Hollywood, to the center of the metropolitan area, and on to the South East. Smaller roads also ran out from the city center to Pasadena, and Alhambra. However, most of the city itself was not connected. Another important point is that at this time the freeway to Long Beach was only half completed. Moreover, the entire route to San Pedro was still under construction.

In contrast, by 2005 there had been a dramatic expansion in the freeway network. Not only had all the previously unfinished roads been completed, but hundreds of additional kilometers had been built, connecting all of the smaller townships, now 15, with the exception of Redondo Beach. It was now possible to travel along the freeway from East to West and North to South.

Answers - Before You Read

1. The number of freeways increased. The extent of the network grew. More towns were connected. Where most of the freeways tended to be.
2. Past perfect is useful because you are talking about a time before a time in the past. And past simple.