Useful language: describing trends Types of diagrams: 1.graph 2.bar chart 3.pie chart 4.table 5.multiple diagram (two or more diagrams about the dame topic) 6.process or cycle 7.illustration 8.map Strategy 1.It is important to identify whether a diagram shows changes over time or differences in one fixed time, as they require different vocabulary and grammatical structures. 2.Study the diagram carefully to check you understand what period of time the diagram describes and use appropriate tenses. 3.Write an appropriate introductory sentence that describes what a diagram shows. 4.Don’t forget to paraphrase the title of the diagram in the introductory sentence. 5.The volume is 100-150 words. Plan 1.Paragraph 1. –Say what the diagram shows in your own words.Follow this with several sentences describing the main features supported by reference to the diagram, include dates and figures. 2.Paragraph 2. -Give further detailes- describe other features,significant differences and make comparisons where relevant. Support with figures from the diagram.Don’t attempt to describe every detail. 3.Summarizing sentence -End with one or two sentences that give an overall summary of the main features. No explanation, reasons, or conclusion should be given. Meaning Go down Go up No change --------------------------> Verb Decrease Fall Drop Decline Plunge ( big change) Plummet ( big change) Noun The same Increase Rise Grow Double Treble Rocket ( big change) The same Level off Remain the same Remain stable A levelling off at -------------------- ----------------------- Growth Doubling in + noun Trebling in + noun ------------ Constant change Position /\ \/ stabilize ---------- Fluctuate Fluctuation in + noun Reach a high/ peak of Reach a low of Stood at A high of A low of --------- Adjective/ adverb Small change Large change examples There was a substantial increase in students in 2006. The number of students increased substantially throughout the period from 2002 to 2006. finish. To sum up, the main trend of the graph (diagram) is to show … Steady(ily) Slight(ly) Gradual(lly) Considerable(ly) Sharp(ly) Dramatic(ally) Significant(ly) Substantial(ly) Time phrases From 2000 to 2005 From 150 to 200 units In 2006 For 5 years Between 2000 and 2005 During/throughout the period from 2000 to 2005