Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-08-22

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 percentages of people living in cities in four Asian countries between 1970 and 2020, with projections for 2030 and 2040.

Overall, the population increased in all four nations. Malaysia recorded the highest and most consistent growth, while Thailand remained the least urbanised country for most of the period. Indonesia experienced a particularly sharp rise after 2000.

In 1970, around 30% of the populations of both the Philippines and Malaysia lived in cities. The figures for Thailand and Indonesia were much lower, at approximately 18% and 13% respectively. By 1990, Malaysia and the Philippines had both reached nearly 50%, although Malaysia then continued to rise steadily to over 80% by 2040.

The Philippines followed a less stable pattern, falling slightly from 1990 to 2010 before recovering to about 56% in 2040. Meanwhile, Indonesia grew gradually until 2000 and then increased rapidly, reaching roughly 64% by the end of the period. Thailand showed the slowest growth, climbing from about 18% in 1970 to a projected 50% in 2040.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The response effectively covers all requirements of the task. You have identified the main trends, such as the consistent growth in Malaysia and the sharp rise in Indonesia after 2000. The overview is clear and highlights the key differences between the countries. You have successfully incorporated data points to support your descriptions, such as the 1970 starting figures and the 2040 projections. The information is well-selected and provides a comprehensive summary of the graph without unnecessary detail. The comparison between countries is consistent throughout the report, meeting the criteria for a high band score.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The response is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a distinct focus: the introduction, the overview, the initial state in 1970, and the subsequent trends. Cohesive devices such as 'Meanwhile', 'although', and 'in addition' (implied through structure) are used effectively to link sentences and ideas. The paragraphing is appropriate, and the information flows smoothly from one point to the next. There is a clear sense of structure that guides the reader through the data without any confusion or mechanical repetition.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.0

You demonstrate a good range of vocabulary appropriate for an academic report. Phrases like 'consistent growth', 'least urbanised', 'sharp rise', and 'projected' are used accurately and naturally. The vocabulary is precise and contributes to the clarity of the report. While the range is sufficient and effective, it could be further enhanced by incorporating more sophisticated collocations or varied synonyms to describe trends, such as 'upward trajectory' or 'plateaued'. However, the current usage is accurate and fits the context well, showing a good level of control.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The response displays a good variety of complex structures, such as the use of subordinate clauses ('while Thailand remained...', 'although Malaysia then continued...'). The sentences are generally error-free, and the control over punctuation and tense is strong. You have successfully managed the mix of past data and future projections. The grammar is accurate throughout, and there are no instances where errors impede communication. The writing is fluent, and the sentence structures are varied enough to maintain interest and demonstrate a high level of grammatical competence.

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