Band 6.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.0 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-07-25

IELTS Writing Task 1 question

The graph below gives information about the percentage of the population in four Asian countries living in cities from 1970 to 2020, with predictions for 2030 and 2040. Summarize the information by selecting and reporting the main features and make comparisons where relevant.

 

Student answer (Band 6.0)

The line graph illustrates the information about the percentages of the population living in cities across four Asian countries Philippines, Malysia, Thailand and Indonesia during the year 1970 to 2020 with predictions for 2030 and 2040.

Overall, Malaysia population is at peak during all the years. While Thailand population was considerably lowest among all other countries. The population of Indonesia gradually increased from 10% to approximately 60% over the period 1970 and 2040. The Thailand population initially peaked to a 30% until 1990 and was steady between 1900 and 2020.

The population of Philippines hit a high of roughly 50% during 1970 and 1990. There is a small decrease during its next 10 years later gradually increased up to 50 %. Malaysia population was almost 30 % during the year 1970 and went to a peak of around 80%.

There during th year 1970 and 2040 it was observed that population was gradually increased for all the countires in which

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.0

The response covers the main features of the graph, identifying the upward trends and the relative positions of the four countries. However, the analysis is somewhat superficial and contains factual inaccuracies regarding the data (e.g., stating Thailand was steady between 1900 and 2020, which is impossible). The overview is present but lacks a clear synthesis of the data. Furthermore, the response ends abruptly mid-sentence, which leaves the task incomplete. To improve, ensure that data points are accurately transcribed and that the summary provides a cohesive comparison of the trends rather than just listing individual country statistics.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.0

The essay is organised into paragraphs, which is a positive step. However, the progression of ideas is hindered by the incomplete final sentence and some awkward transitions between sentences. Cohesive devices are used, but they are often mechanical or misused, such as the repetitive use of 'The population of...' to start sentences. The logical flow is interrupted by the abrupt ending, which prevents the response from reaching a natural conclusion. Improving the use of linking words and ensuring that each paragraph has a clear, complete focus would significantly enhance the coherence of the writing.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.0

The vocabulary is generally adequate for the task but lacks the precision and variety required for a higher band. There are several instances of word-choice errors, such as 'considerably lowest' (which is grammatically incorrect) and 'at peak' instead of 'at its peak'. The range of vocabulary is limited, relying heavily on basic descriptors like 'increased' and 'peaked'. To achieve a higher score, you should incorporate more varied synonyms for trends and use more precise collocations to describe statistical changes, such as 'a steady climb' or 'a significant surge'.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.0

The response contains a mix of simple and some attempted complex structures, but there are frequent grammatical errors that occasionally impede clarity. Examples include 'during the year 1970 to 2020' (should be 'from 1970 to 2020') and 'Malaysia population' (missing the possessive 'Malaysia's'). There are also issues with subject-verb agreement and preposition usage. While the meaning is generally understandable, the frequency of these errors prevents the writing from reaching a higher band. Focusing on basic sentence construction and proofreading for small errors like missing articles or possessives would be beneficial.

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