Band 5.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 5.5 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-08-19
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 given provides data about the proportion of the population in four different Asian countries living in separate cities from 1970 to 2020, with future predictions of population for 2030 and 2040.
Overall, it is evident that, Philippines population showed fluctuations, while Indonesia's population raised considerably over these years. Moreover, ratio of Thailand population increased slightly. Meanwhile, Malaysia represented a sharp climb in percentage.
Examining the details, Indonesia's percentage of people increased from 15% to 60% from 1970 to 2040, which is a significant ratio. Furthermore, population of Thailand was 20% in 1970, which increased slightly in 1990 and showed a considerable jump in 2040. Population of Philippines was 30% in 1970, which raised to 50% in 1990 and then increased a little in 2040 about 55%. By contrast, Malaysia represented a total population of 30% in 1970, subsequently, which jumped rapidly to 85% in 2040.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 5.5 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 5.5 |
| Lexical Resource | 5.5 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 5.5 |
| Overall | 5.5 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.5
The response covers all four countries and the time frame provided. However, the word count is 147 words, which is below the 150-word minimum requirement, resulting in a penalty. While the main features are identified, the analysis is somewhat superficial. For example, the description of the Philippines as having 'fluctuations' is inaccurate, as the graph shows a steady upward trend. The data points are generally accurate, but the lack of sufficient length prevents a more thorough comparison of the trends between the countries. To improve, ensure you meet the minimum word count and provide more detailed comparisons between the countries rather than just listing individual data points.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 5.5
The response is organized into an introduction, an overview, and a body paragraph. There is a logical progression of ideas, and the use of cohesive devices such as 'Overall', 'Moreover', 'Meanwhile', and 'By contrast' helps to guide the reader. However, the paragraphing is slightly unbalanced, with the overview and body details combined in a way that makes the structure feel a bit cramped. The referencing is generally clear, though the flow between sentences could be smoother to better connect the comparative analysis.
Lexical Resource — Band 5.5
The range of vocabulary is adequate for the task, but it lacks the precision and variety expected at higher bands. There is some repetition of basic verbs like 'increased' and 'showed'. Phrases such as 'considerable jump' and 'sharp climb' are used, which demonstrate some attempt at variety. However, there are minor errors in word choice, such as 'living in separate cities' (which is slightly unnatural) and 'ratio of Thailand population' (where 'proportion' would be more accurate). Expanding your vocabulary to include more precise terms for trends will improve your score.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.5
The response uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures. There are several grammatical errors, such as 'Philippines population showed' (missing 'The'), 'Indonesia's population raised' (incorrect verb usage; 'rose' is the correct past tense), and 'increased a little in 2040 about 55%' (awkward phrasing). While these errors do not completely impede communication, they are frequent enough to affect the overall clarity. To reach a higher band, focus on using accurate verb tenses for describing trends and ensure articles and prepositions are used correctly.
See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.
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