Band 5.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 5.5 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-08-05
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 5.5)
The graph shows the information about the population of four Asian counties between the year 1970 and 2020, however, it also predicts the growth in population in next two decades in the form of percentage.
Initially, Malaysia shows the greatest population growth between 1970 and 2020, has increased from 30% to above 70% and now its aiming for more than 80% growth for the year 2040. The least growth recorded for Philippines, whose population was decreased in a certain period and then shows some growth after that decline from around 40% in 2010 to approximately 42% in 2020 but it shows the target of above 50% till 2040. Indonesia also shows continues increase in population from the beginning and its aim for 2040 is just below 60%. Thailand's population growth remained near to none between 1990 and 2020, however, it shows great increase in the population growth in next two decades.
In summary, all the countries shows growth in their population and also they are aiming for more growth in next two decades.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 5.5 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 5.5 |
| Lexical Resource | 5.5 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 5.0 |
| Overall | 5.5 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.5
The response covers the main features of the graph, identifying trends for all four countries. However, the analysis is somewhat superficial. For example, describing Malaysia's growth as 'aiming for' 80% is slightly inaccurate as the graph shows projections, not intent. Furthermore, the description of the Philippines is confusing; you mention a decrease, but the graph shows a relatively stable or slightly fluctuating trend. To reach a higher band, ensure you provide more precise data points and avoid interpreting the data as if the countries have personal 'aims'. The overview is present but lacks sufficient detail regarding the overall trend of urbanization across the region.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 5.5
The essay is organized into logical paragraphs, with an introduction, body paragraphs for the data, and a summary. However, the use of cohesive devices is somewhat mechanical and occasionally repetitive. Phrases like 'also shows' and 'however' are used frequently. The progression of ideas within paragraphs could be smoother; for instance, the transition between the description of Malaysia and the Philippines is abrupt. Improving the variety of linking words and ensuring that each sentence flows naturally from the previous one would enhance the coherence of the response.
Lexical Resource — Band 5.5
The vocabulary is adequate for the task but lacks the precision and range required for higher bands. You rely on basic verbs like 'shows', 'increased', and 'growth' repeatedly. While the meaning is clear, the lack of variety makes the writing feel repetitive. There are also some minor collocation issues, such as 'remained near to none', which is not standard English. To improve, try to incorporate more varied reporting verbs and nouns related to statistical trends, such as 'fluctuated', 'surged', or 'a significant proportion'.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.0
The response contains a mix of simple and complex sentence structures. However, there are several grammatical errors that occur throughout the text. For example, 'all the countries shows' (subject-verb agreement error), 'population was decreased' (incorrect passive voice usage), and 'in next two decades' (missing article). While these errors do not prevent the reader from understanding the main points, they are frequent enough to limit the score. Focusing on subject-verb agreement and the correct use of articles will significantly improve the accuracy of your writing.
See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.
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