IELTS LISTENING Map Tips
Why labeling a Map in IELTS Listening goes wrong? Common problems and Solutions
Labeling a map in IELTS Listening is one of the most difficult questions and many students lose their scores in this part of the test. It is true that listening directions for a map is quite tricky and some aspirants don’t even understand it but with some tips and concentration you can easily crack this section. So today we will discuss Why labeling a Map in IELTS Listening goes wrong? Common problems and Solutions. As this will make you easy to know the common mistakes and work on them accordingly.
In this type a map is provided and you have to label it following the instructions given by the narrator. So the main thing you should be skilled is location language and prepositions of place. This task usually comes in part 2 of the listening section but you could also get it in the other sections of the listening test. Nearly always it is open person speaking, such as a tour guide or someone showing people around a building. In this task sometimes a list of words is given to match the gaps with. Other map, tasks just have a gap, so you will need to pick up the words from listening only.
Now let’s discuss some common problems.
In this task you have to be multi functional as you will come across too much information regarding the map. Moreover, you will also be aware of directional language, understanding the diagram and note taking, all at the same time.
Most challenging work is to create mental visual image of a description if you are not familiar with the topic. If you fail to visualize, it might be very difficult for you to answer this question.
Spelling errors is another cause of low scores. It happens because in the listening section you need to concentrate on many things when you are answering this question.
There are some common useful vocabulary that are used in this type of question. If you don’t know these contextual expressions, answering this question might be a very challenging task for you. Check the useful expression list below
There are seven steps to consider here:
1. Read the instructions such as: “Write NO MORE THAN 2 WORDS” or “Write NO MORE THAN 3 WORDS” or “Write the correct letter A to G next to the questions 17 – 20”.
2. Look for clues on the map – There are some clues on the map like compass icon showing where “North”, “South”, “East” and “West” are. So if you find this type of things you should be ready to hear these phrases in the talk. You are often given your own location – “You are here”.
3. Notice things close by – For example, in the map below “I” and “G” are next to your location so they might be mentioned first (but not always!). Note that some maps will have more labels than you need. So you will have some left over.
4. Listen for context – Listen to the context carefully as before the speaker start giving directions he or she will mention what the map is about and where you are right now. In some maps you do not get a “you are here” label so listen out for where you are exactly.
5. Be careful of your spelling – Make sure you label the map with the right spelling, especially if you are not given a list of words where you can only listen out for the words where you can only listen out for words for each gap.
