Duolingo English Test Question Type Intro 1：Write About the Photo

In the Duolingo English Test, the "Write About the Photo" prompt requires you to describe what you see in a picture within one minute. This blog post will delve into the four main types of this question and share effective strategies for answering them.

Understanding the "Write About the Photo" Question Type

The "Write About the Photo" question requires test-takers to describe an image in at least one complete sentence within a strict 60-second time limit. This question type will occur three times in the test, and the difficulty adapts to your performance. This format not only assesses your ability to describe visuals but also evaluates your skills in sentence structure, spelling, vocabulary, grammar, and punctuation.

Categories and Strategies

The questions are classified into four primary categories: People, Animals, Scenery, and Objects. Each question category has corresponding answering strategies and template sentences to help test-takers achieve better scores.

People Category

Answering Strategies:

To describe a picture of people in just one or two sentences, begin by mentioning the scene or location captured in the photo. Then, highlight the individuals by detailing their actions, clothing, or any distinctive features that stand out.

Template Sentences:

1. "In this photograph, the setting is [location], where [number of people] are [activity]. They are [description of people's appearance, clothing, or expressions]."

2. "Captured in this image is a [group/individual] at [location], [action or activity]. Notably, they are [dressed or characterized by a specific feature]."

Sample Essay: In this photograph, the setting is a street where numerous individuals are participating in a parade. They are donning robot costumes while a multitude of spectators are observing their performance along the thoroughfare.

Animals Category

Answering Strategies:

To describe a photo with animals using two sentences, you can start by detailing the environment or location of the photo, and then focus on the animals themselves, describing their species, behavior, and any other notable details.

Template Sentences:

1. "In a [setting], a group of [animal species] can be seen [activity]. The [notable animal feature] of the animals contrasts beautifully with the [environmental feature]."

2. "Captured in a [setting], [animal species] are [activity], displaying their

[notable animal feature]. The surrounding [environmental feature] adds to the scene's serene atmosphere."

Sample Essay: In this photograph, the setting is a street where numerous individuals are participating in a parade. They are donning robot costumes while a multitude of spectators are observing their performance along the thoroughfare.

Scenery Category

To describe the scenery in a picture, start by closely observing the image and focusing on details like color, lighting, and shapes. Next, identify the main subject, whether it's mountains, the ocean, or a cityscape. Then, explain the spatial relationships among the elements, including the foreground, midground, and background. Additionally, the weather can serve as a valuable detail to enhance your description. Finally, capture the atmosphere and emotions conveyed by the image, such as tranquility, liveliness, or warmth.

Template Sentences:

1. [Subject] dominates the scene in this captivating photo, with [distinctive feature] drawing the viewer's attention. The [secondary elements] complement the composition, creating an overall [mood or atmosphere] impression.

2. This striking image captures the essence of [subject], showcasing its

[unique features]. The [foreground/middle ground/background] elements work together harmoniously, evoking a sense of [emotion or feeling].

Sample Essay: This striking image captures the essence of a picturesque scene, showcasing a clear lake surrounded by towering mountains covered with lush vegetation. The composition is further enhanced by two chairs placed in a spacious sea- view room, inviting the viewer to explore the serene landscape.

Objects Category

To describe the objects in a picture, start by identifying the main subject—determine the primary object and highlight its unique features or what makes it appealing. Next, describe the relationship between the secondary objects and the main subject, explaining how they complement the overall composition. Ensure your sentences are of appropriate length to clearly convey your ideas, making the description vivid and concise.

Template Sentences:

1. This intriguing photo showcases [main item], which draws the viewer's attention with its [distinctive feature]. The [secondary items] add depth to the scene, creating a [mood or atmosphere] atmosphere.

2. This visually appealing photo features a [main item] with [unique

characteristics], skillfully contrasted against the [secondary items], which contribute to the [mood or atmosphere] ambiance.

Sample Essay: This visually appealing photo features a broken car, which stands out due to its twisted front hood, skillfully illustrating the aftermath of an accident.The surrounding scene provides context, contributing to an atmosphere of urgency and concern.

Tips for Write About the Photo

Aim for 2-3 Sentences: While a single sentence may suffice, adding more detail enhances your description and demonstrates your language proficiency.

Use Specific Details: Enrich your vocabulary by incorporating adjectives, adverbs, and conjunctions, which will help lengthen your sentences and add depth to your description.

Stick to Direct Observations: Focus on what you see in the image without making excessive inferences or assumptions.

Highlight Key Elements: Pay attention to the main subjects—whether people or objects—ensuring your description is grammatically correct and logically coherent.

Practice Regularly: Familiarize yourself with this question type through consistent practice. To practice this type of question, our website provides a wide range of exercises designed to help you become more familiar with the format.

Our website will keep updating with more information about the Duolingo English Test. Click to register for your account and discover more!