Band 5.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 5.0 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-08-03
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 5.0)
The above graph illustrates, the information about the percentage of the population in four Asian countries living in cities from 1970 to 2020, with predictions for 2030 and 2040.
Overall, the Philippines started with highest population living in cities but it declined later and the highest growing was Malaysia and last was Indonesia. These were prediction for 2030 and 2040.
The Malaysia was highest in 1970 which was around 30% and it increased in 1990 to 50% and then declined to 40% in 2010 and was seen rising at low rate an ended around 50% in 2040. The next is Malaysia started at 30% in 1970 and was seen increasing till end and was 80% in 2040.
The next is, Thailand was around 20% in 1970 and increased to 30% in 1990 and was stable till 2020 with 30% then increased at good rate and was nearly 45% in 2040. The Indonesia was around 15% in 1970 which was low and started increasing at low rate and was 25% in 2000 and was growing till 60% in 2040.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 5.0 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 5.0 |
| Lexical Resource | 5.0 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 5.0 |
| Overall | 5.0 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.0
The response covers all four countries and the time period, but the reporting of data is inaccurate and confusing. For instance, you state Malaysia started at 30% and ended at 80%, but then repeat the same data for 'the next is Malaysia'. Furthermore, the overview is problematic; you claim the Philippines had the highest population living in cities, which is not supported by the graph. The summary lacks a clear focus on the main trends, such as the overall growth across all countries. To improve, ensure you carefully cross-reference the data points with the graph and provide a more accurate summary of the key features rather than listing individual data points.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 5.0
The essay is organized into paragraphs, but the logical progression is hindered by repetitive and contradictory information. The use of cohesive devices is mechanical and sometimes confusing, such as 'The next is Malaysia' appearing twice. The referencing is unclear, making it difficult for the reader to follow which country is being discussed. To improve, use a wider variety of linking words (e.g., 'In contrast', 'Furthermore', 'Subsequently') and ensure that each paragraph has a clear topic sentence. Avoid repeating the same information or confusing the names of the countries, as this disrupts the flow of the report.
Lexical Resource — Band 5.0
The vocabulary range is limited and repetitive. You frequently use basic verbs like 'increased', 'declined', and 'was'. There is also a lack of precision in describing trends; for example, 'seen rising at low rate' is awkward phrasing. To reach a higher band, incorporate more sophisticated vocabulary to describe trends, such as 'fluctuated', 'experienced a steady climb', or 'reached a peak'. Additionally, ensure that you use precise terminology for data reporting, such as 'proportion' or 'percentage', rather than repeating the same simple structures throughout the response.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.0
The response contains several grammatical errors that occasionally impede clarity. There are issues with article usage (e.g., 'the highest growing was Malaysia'), subject-verb agreement, and sentence structure. Many sentences are simple or contain run-on structures that lack proper punctuation. While you attempt to use complex sentences, they are often faulty or contain errors that make the meaning ambiguous. To improve, focus on mastering basic sentence construction and ensure that your verb tenses are consistent when describing past data versus future predictions. Proofreading for small errors like missing articles or incorrect prepositions will also help.
See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.
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