Writing Task 1 Academic – Session 1 – Assessing Criteria

As you have started on the learning path of IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 (from here to be referred to as “IELTS Report”), let’s uncover the essential criteria that examiners use to evaluate your responses.

There are 4 criteria that are used to assess your IELTS Report, each of which is 25% of your overall score. Just like a skilled navigator needs a compass, understanding the four main assessment criteria will guide you toward success in the IELTS Report.

Grasping the Core Assessment Criteria

1. Task Achievement:
   • What does this mean? Examiners want to see if you’ve accurately described, summarized or explained the information presented in the visual representation. You need to write at least 150 words.
   • How can you meet this criterion? Focus on the main trends and key features of the data, ensuring your response aligns with the given task.
2. Coherence and Cohesion:
   • What does this mean? Examiners assess how well your ideas are organized and connected throughout your response.
   • How can you meet this criterion? Arrange your information logically, using paragraphs to present different aspects. Use linking words to create smooth transitions between ideas.
3. Lexical Resource (Vocabulary):
   • What does this mean? Examiners evaluate the variety and appropriateness of the vocabulary you use.
   • How can you meet this criterion? Aim for a mix of simple and more advanced words. Ensure your vocabulary accurately reflects the information presented in the visual.
4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy:
   • What does this mean? Examiners look at the diversity of your grammatical structures and the correctness of your sentences.
   • How can you meet this criterion? Experiment with different sentence structures while maintaining grammatical accuracy. Proofread your response to catch and correct any errors.

A Closer Look at Each Criterion

1. Task Achievement

Directly address the information in the visual representation. Your response should be a clear and concise summary, highlighting the main points and trends. Avoid unnecessary details that do not contribute to the overall understanding. Avoid including information that is not presented in the prompt, such as reasons, and speculations.

You need to write at least 150 words. Failure to produce 150 words will result in a reduction in your score.

2. Coherence and Cohesion

Organize your response logically. Start with an introduction that provides an overview, followed by clear body paragraphs that focus on specific aspects of the visual data. Use linking words to guide the reader through your response.

3. Lexical Resource (Vocabulary)

Use a range of vocabulary to express yourself, both general and topic-specific vocabulary. Avoid repetition and focus on precision in your word choices. Ensure that the words you use accurately describe the information from the visual representation.

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy

Experiment with different sentence structures to showcase your grammatical skills. While doing so, maintain accuracy to ensure your ideas are communicated clearly. Proofreading is crucial to catch and correct any grammatical mistakes.