Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-08-17
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 7.5)
The line graph illustrates the percentage of the population living in urban areas in four Southeast Asian countries—the Philippines, Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia—from 1970 to 2020, with projections up to 2040.
Overall, all four nations experience a significant rise in urbanization over the 70-year period. Malaysia consistently demonstrates the highest growth, while Thailand maintains the lowest urban proportion for most of the period.
In 1970, the Philippines led with approximately 32% of its population living in cities, closely followed by Malaysia at 30%. While the Philippines fluctuated around 40-50% between 1980 and 2010 before climbing to 50% in 2030, Malaysia experienced rapid, continuous growth, crossing 70% in 2010 and projected to reach over 80% by 2040.
Indonesia and Thailand started with the lowest urban figures in 1970, at around 14% and 18% respectively. Indonesia surpassed Thailand by 2000 and the Philippines by around 2010, accelerating steadily to reach around 64% by 2040. Thailand's urbanization increased steadily at a slower rate, reaching roughly 33% by 2020, but is projected to experience faster growth to hit 50% by 2040.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 7.5 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 7.5 |
| Lexical Resource | 7.0 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 7.5 |
| Overall | 7.5 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5
The response effectively addresses all parts of the task. You have provided a clear overview of the trends and successfully selected key features, such as Malaysia's consistent growth and the relative positions of the countries in 1970 and 2040. The data is accurately reported, and comparisons are made throughout the text, such as noting when Indonesia surpassed Thailand and the Philippines. The information is well-supported by the provided figures, and the inclusion of both past data and future projections is handled logically. The response is well-structured and meets all requirements for a high-scoring Task 1 report.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5
The response is logically organized, with a clear introduction, an overview, and two body paragraphs that group the countries effectively. Cohesive devices such as 'while', 'at the same time', and 'in 1970' are used appropriately to guide the reader through the data. Paragraphing is used effectively to separate the initial status from the subsequent trends. The progression of ideas is smooth, and referencing is clear throughout the text. The flow of information is natural and easy to follow, demonstrating a high level of coherence.
Lexical Resource — Band 7.0
You have used a sufficient range of vocabulary to describe trends, such as 'fluctuated', 'accelerating steadily', and 'projected to reach'. The terminology is precise and appropriate for an academic report. There are no significant errors in word choice or collocation. While the vocabulary is accurate and functional, incorporating a few more sophisticated synonyms or collocations related to data description could elevate the response further. Overall, the lexical control is strong and supports clear communication.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5
The response demonstrates a good variety of complex structures, such as the use of subordinate clauses ('While the Philippines fluctuated...') and participial phrases ('accelerating steadily to reach...'). The majority of sentences are error-free, and the grammar is controlled throughout. Punctuation is used correctly to manage the flow of information. There are no major grammatical slips that impede meaning. The range of structures is sufficient to convey the information clearly and accurately, meeting the criteria for a high band score.
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