IELTS Book 8 Test 4 Task 1 Writing Band 9 pdf

IELTS 8 Writing Model Essay (Free sample)

Test 4 Task 1 Question

The graph below shows the quantities of goods transported in the UK between 1974 and 2002 by four different modes of transport.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

Write at least 150 words.

Test 4 Task 1 Model Essay by an Expert 

The graph compares the use of four methods for transporting goods in the UK between 1974 and 2002. Throughout this time period, pipeline remained the least popular mode of transporting goods, and road maintained its position as the most popular method by some distance. The amount of goods transported by rail and water were very similar in 1974, but by 2002, around 22 million more tonnes were transported by water than by rail.

All modes of transport except rail experienced an overall increase in the number of tonnes transported between 1974 and 2002. Rail, however, remained roughly the same, at 40 million tonnes per year. Transport by rail and road both experienced a brief trough in the amount of goods transported in 1996, possibly partially counteracted by a corresponding peak in goods transported by pipeline. After a period of fast growth between 1978 and 1981, tonnes transported by water remained relatively steady at around 59 million tonnes per year, until a short-lived trough in 1998. In contrast, the trajectory of goods transported by pipeline enjoyed a steady increase, with no major peaks or troughs.

(184 words)