Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 6.5 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-07-29
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 6.5)
The chart represents the population of four countries such as Philippines, Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia from 1970 to 2040. The data is calibrated in percentage.
Overall, population growth of Malaysia and Indonesia shows dramatic increase, whereas population expansion of Thailand as well as Philippines depicts gradual increase. However, It is forecasted that Malaysia will hold highest number of population.
It is clear that in 1970, Indonesia was at the lowest in all four countries, but it is anticipated that it will surpass Philippines and Thailand. Moreover, Philippines were at the highest numbers in 1970, but Malaysia and Indonesia will surpass Philippines.
In 2000 and 2010, there were dramatic change in population as Indonesia surpasses both Thailand and Philippines. In 2040, it is anticipated that Malaysia's population will be maximized more than double from 1970. Surprisingly, the difference of population in 2040 will be nearly half between Malaysia as well as Thailand.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 6.0 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 6.5 |
| Lexical Resource | 6.5 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 6.5 |
| Overall | 6.5 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.0
The response covers the main features of the graph, identifying the trends for the four countries. However, the analysis is somewhat superficial. You mention that Malaysia will have the 'highest number of population,' but the graph tracks the 'percentage of the population living in cities,' not the total population count. This is a significant misinterpretation of the data. While you identify the key trends (dramatic vs. gradual increases), the lack of specific data points (e.g., percentages for 1970 or 2040) makes the report less informative. To reach a higher band, ensure you accurately interpret the axis labels and include specific figures to support your comparisons.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5
The essay is organized into logical paragraphs, with an introduction, an overview, and two body paragraphs. There is a clear progression of ideas. However, the use of cohesive devices is sometimes mechanical or slightly inaccurate. For example, the transition 'However, It is forecasted' is used to introduce a trend that is not necessarily a contrast to the previous sentence. Additionally, the referencing is occasionally unclear, such as when you refer to 'highest numbers' without specifying if you mean the percentage of urban dwellers. Improving the variety and precision of your linking words would enhance the flow.
Lexical Resource — Band 6.5
You have a sufficient range of vocabulary to convey the main points, using terms like 'calibrated,' 'forecasted,' 'surpass,' and 'anticipated.' However, there are some issues with word choice and collocation. For instance, 'highest number of population' is inaccurate; it should be 'highest percentage of urban population.' Furthermore, 'maximized more than double' is an awkward phrasing. To improve, focus on using more precise terminology for describing trends and ensure that your collocations are natural. Expanding your range of synonyms for 'increase' and 'decrease' would also be beneficial.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.5
The response contains a mix of simple and complex sentence structures. While the meaning is generally clear, there are several grammatical errors. For example, 'Philippines were at the highest numbers' should be 'The Philippines was at the highest level.' There are also issues with articles ('the' is missing before 'Philippines') and subject-verb agreement ('Indonesia surpasses' vs 'surpassed'). While these errors do not prevent communication, they occur frequently enough to impact the overall accuracy. Focusing on consistent tense usage and article placement will help improve your score in this criterion.
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