Band 5.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 5.0 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-08-20
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 pie charts illustrate the percentages of the population living in cities across four Asian countries over fifty years, along with projected estimates for the years 2030 and 2090.
Overall, it is clear that Malaysia stands out with the highest urban population, whereas Thailand exhibits the lowest, at almost 39%.
In 1970, all four countries had relatively low urban populations compared to subsequent years. Indonesia and the Philippines, with the lowest percentages of people living in cities, accounted for 39% and 49%, respectively.
In 1990, the Philippines had the second-highest percentage of the population living in cities, which then decreased dramatically.
However, Malaysia witnessed an upward trend in urbanization from 2000 onward, and this trend is expected to continue until 2090.
Similarly, Thailand initially increased gradually but then fell to its lowest level in terms of the percentage of the population living in cities.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 5.0 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 5.0 |
| Lexical Resource | 5.0 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 5.5 |
| Overall | 5.0 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.0
The response fails to meet the minimum word count requirement of 150 words, which significantly impacts the score. Furthermore, the content is underdeveloped. While you identify some trends, the analysis is fragmented and lacks a comprehensive overview of the data. You misinterpret the graph by referring to 'pie charts' when the prompt provides a line graph. Additionally, the data points cited (e.g., '39% and 49%') are not clearly linked to specific years or countries in a way that provides a coherent summary. The inclusion of '2090' is a factual error based on the prompt's provided dates. To improve, ensure you cover all four countries consistently and provide a clear, accurate summary of the main trends.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 5.0
The essay is organized into short paragraphs, but the logical progression is weak. The transition between ideas is often abrupt, and the use of cohesive devices is limited. For example, the shift from 1970 to 1990 and then to 2000 feels disjointed. The referencing is sometimes unclear, making it difficult for the reader to follow the comparison between the four countries. While there is an attempt at an overview, it does not effectively synthesize the information presented in the graph. Improving the use of linking words and ensuring each paragraph has a clear focus would enhance the flow of your writing.
Lexical Resource — Band 5.0
The vocabulary is generally adequate for the task but lacks the precision and variety expected at higher bands. You use basic descriptors like 'upward trend' and 'lowest level.' There are also inaccuracies in terminology, such as calling the line graph 'pie charts.' To reach a higher band, you should incorporate more sophisticated vocabulary related to data trends, such as 'fluctuated,' 'plateaued,' or 'surpassed.' Additionally, ensure that your terminology accurately reflects the visual data provided in the prompt to avoid confusing the reader.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.5
The response contains a mix of simple and complex sentence structures. While the meaning is generally clear, there are grammatical inaccuracies that occasionally hinder the flow. For instance, the phrase 'Thailand initially increased gradually but then fell to its lowest level' is slightly awkward in its construction. There are also issues with punctuation and sentence clarity. To improve, focus on using a wider variety of complex structures, such as relative clauses or participial phrases, while ensuring that your subject-verb agreement and tense usage remain consistent throughout the report.
See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.
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