Band 5.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 5.0 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-08-25
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 given graph illustrates the percentage of the population in four Asian countries living in cities from 1970 to 2020 and also depicts the population of the coming years from 2030 and 2040. The y axis shows the percentage of total population and the x axis shows the year.
To begin with, in the year 1970, Philippines and Malaysia having the same population of around 32% and 30% and Indonesia and Malaysia having around 12% and 19%. It can be observed that all countries are increasing in population up until the year 1990. From the year 1990 to 2010 it is observed that all countries have a uniform increase except Philippines which has decreased in its population to about 40%. Next, from the year 2010 to 2020 the counties have gained in population of about 70%, 60% , 45% and 27%. Then the countries are expected to have a population of around Philippines 50%, Malaysia 81%, Thailand 41% and Indonesia 60%.
overall, observing from all the perspectives Malaysia having the highest population and Thailand having the lowest population.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 5.0 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 5.5 |
| Lexical Resource | 5.0 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 5.0 |
| Overall | 5.0 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.0
The response attempts to cover the main features of the graph, but the data reporting is frequently inaccurate and confusing. For instance, the claim that the Philippines and Malaysia had the same population in 1970 is not supported by the visual data. Furthermore, the description of trends from 2010 to 2020 is unclear, as the figures provided do not clearly correspond to the actual data points on the graph. The summary of future predictions is also disjointed. To improve, you must ensure that the data points cited are accurate and that the trends are described with precision, rather than listing numbers in a way that obscures the overall movement of the lines.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 5.5
The essay is organised into paragraphs, but the logical progression is weak. The transition between time periods is often abrupt, and the use of cohesive devices is mechanical. For example, 'To begin with' and 'Next' are used, but they do not effectively link the complex data points. The final paragraph is very brief and fails to provide a meaningful overview of the trends. The referencing is also occasionally unclear, making it difficult for the reader to follow the comparison between the four countries. Improving the use of linking words and ensuring each paragraph has a clear focus would enhance the flow.
Lexical Resource — Band 5.0
The range of vocabulary is limited and repetitive. You frequently use the word 'population' when referring to the 'percentage of the population living in cities', which is a significant inaccuracy. Phrases like 'gained in population' are not natural in this context. There is little evidence of less common lexical items or precise collocations. To reach a higher band, you should use more varied vocabulary to describe trends, such as 'urbanisation rates', 'fluctuated', 'projected to reach', or 'remained stable'. Focusing on precise terminology related to data description will greatly improve your score.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.0
There are frequent grammatical errors throughout the text, including issues with subject-verb agreement ('Philippines and Malaysia having the same population') and sentence structure. Many sentences are fragmented or lack a clear main verb. For example, 'It can be observed that all countries are increasing in population up until the year 1990' is grammatically acceptable, but the subsequent sentences often lack proper structure. Punctuation is also inconsistent, particularly with spacing and comma usage. To improve, focus on constructing complete, error-free sentences and ensuring that your verb tenses are consistent when describing past data versus future predictions.
See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.
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