Band 8.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 8.0 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-08-13

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 8.0)

The line graph illustrates the proportion of people living in cities in four Asian countries—the Philippines, Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia—from 1970 to 2020, with projections for 2030 and 2040.

**Overall,** the percentage of the population residing in urban areas is expected to increase in all four countries over the period. Malaysia shows the most substantial and sustained growth and is projected to remain the most urbanised country by 2040. In contrast, Thailand records the slowest overall growth, while Indonesia is expected to experience the most dramatic rise relative to its initial figure. The Philippines is distinctive in showing a decline after reaching a peak around 1990.

In 1970, the Philippines had the highest proportion of urban residents, at approximately 30–35%, followed by Malaysia at 30%. Thailand and Indonesia had considerably lower figures, at around 20% and 10–15%, respectively. By 1990, the Philippine figure had climbed to nearly 50%, making it the clear leader, whereas Malaysia had risen to roughly 40–45%. Thailand and Indonesia increased more moderately, reaching around 30% and 25%.

From 1990 onwards, Malaysia underwent particularly rapid urbanization, with its urban population rising to about 70–75% in 2020. It is forecast to increase further, reaching approximately 80–85% by 2040. Indonesia also experienced substantial growth, overtaking Thailand and the Philippines around the 2010s and reaching roughly 50–55% in 2020. This upward trend is predicted to continue, with the figure approaching 60–65% by 2040.

Meanwhile, the proportion of city dwellers in the Philippines fell to around 40–45% after its 1990 peak, before recovering gradually. It is projected to reach about 50–55% in 2040. Thailand followed a steadier but considerably slower trajectory and is expected to remain the least urbanised country, at approximately 45–50% by the end of the period.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 8.0

The response is excellent. You have successfully identified all four countries and covered the entire timeframe from 1970 to 2040. The overview is particularly strong, as it highlights the main trends—Malaysia's sustained growth, the Philippines' peak and decline, and the relative positions of Indonesia and Thailand—without simply listing data. You have effectively selected key features and made relevant comparisons, such as noting when Indonesia overtook other nations. The information is accurate and well-supported by the data provided in the graph, meeting all the requirements of an Academic Task 1 response.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.0

The response is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a distinct focus: the introduction, the overview, the early period (1970–1990), and the later period (1990–2040). Cohesive devices such as 'In contrast', 'Meanwhile', 'whereas', and 'From 1990 onwards' are used effectively to guide the reader through the data. The paragraphing is logical, and the flow between sentences is smooth, making the information easy to follow. There is no evidence of mechanical or repetitive linking, and the structure supports the clear communication of the trends.

Lexical Resource — Band 8.0

You demonstrate a wide and flexible range of vocabulary, which is used with precision. Phrases like 'sustained growth', 'dramatic rise', 'clear leader', and 'steadier but considerably slower trajectory' show a high level of control. You avoid repetition by using varied synonyms for 'increase' and 'decrease'. The vocabulary is sophisticated and appropriate for an academic report. There are no noticeable errors in word choice or collocation, and the language used is natural and precise throughout the entire response.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.0

The response displays a wide range of grammatical structures, including complex sentences with subordinate clauses and accurate use of comparative structures. The majority of sentences are error-free, and the control over punctuation and tense usage (past for historical data, future for projections) is excellent. There are no significant grammatical errors that impede communication. The use of participial phrases and varied sentence beginnings contributes to a fluent and professional tone. The accuracy is consistent, reflecting a high level of grammatical competence.

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