Prompt
Task 1 – Map: coastal area and tourist resort
The map shows a coastal area before and after the construction of a tourist resort. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.
Band 9 sample answer
Band 9 sample answer
The two maps compare a coastal area prior to development with the same site after a tourist resort was built.
Overall, the formerly undeveloped coastline—consisting mainly of a forest to the north and a large natural area inland—was transformed into a purpose-built resort featuring accommodation, retail outlets, roads and parking, while a smaller section of natural land was retained.
Before construction, the northern part of the area was occupied by forest, and a sizeable natural area lay in the centre, with the sea forming the southern boundary. No transport infrastructure or buildings were shown.
After development, the forest was replaced by a hotel complex in the upper-left portion of the map and a row of shops to its east. A new access road was added on the right-hand side, connecting into an internal road network that runs westwards across the site. In the middle of the resort, a large parking area was created, served by a looped road linking the main routes. In addition, beach facilities were installed along the shoreline in the south-west/central coastal strip. The natural area was reduced and relocated to the south-east, adjacent to the access road.
Verified word count: 196
Why this answer works
explanation
It provides (1) a clear overall summary of the key transformation, (2) accurate comparisons between ‘before’ and ‘after’, (3) precise relative locations for all major features, and (4) a logically organised structure that prioritises the most significant changes.
what this question tests
This map task assesses your ability to describe spatial changes over time, summarise the overall transformation (overview), and make clear comparisons using accurate location language (e.g., north/south, to the east of, along the coast).
Useful vocabulary and phrases
was transformed into
Signals major change clearly and naturally.
The undeveloped site was transformed into a fully equipped resort.
formerly undeveloped
Concise way to describe the ‘before’ condition.
The formerly undeveloped coastline contained only natural features.
a row of
Common collocation for map descriptions.
A row of shops was built to the east of the hotel.
served by
Adds precision about connections.
The parking area is served by a looped road.
along the shoreline
Accurate geographic phrasing for coastal maps.
Beach facilities were installed along the shoreline.
was reduced and relocated
Efficiently summarises two changes together.
The natural area was reduced and relocated to the south-east.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Omitting an Overview paragraph that summarises the main changes.
- Listing features without making ‘before vs after’ comparisons.
- Using vague location language (e.g., ‘near there’) instead of precise directions.
- Claiming numerical distances or sizes that are not shown on the map.
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