Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-08-26

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 compares the percentage of people living in cities in the Philippines, Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia from 1970 to 2020, with predictions for 2030 and 2040.

Overall, the proportion of urban residents increased in all four countries. Malaysia had the highest percentage for most of the period, while Indonesia experienced the fastest growth after 2000 and is predicted to continue rising. Thailand remained the least urbanised country until around 2020.

In 1970, approximately 30% of people in the Philippines lived in cities, compared with about 30% in Malaysia, 20% in Thailand and 13% in Indonesia. The Philippines rose steadily to around 50% in 1990, before increasing to roughly 70% by 2020. Malaysia also grew considerably, reaching about 60% in 2000 and approximately 75% in 2020.

Indonesia showed gradual growth initially, reaching around 30% in 2000, but then increased sharply to about 55% in 2020. It is forecast to reach roughly 70% by 2040. Meanwhile, Thailand is expected to rise more slowly, reaching around 55% in 2040. Malaysia is predicted to remain the most urbanised, at approximately 85%.

AI examiner evaluation

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 selected key data points to support your description. The comparison between the four countries is well-integrated, and the inclusion of the future predictions adds depth to the analysis. You have successfully identified the main features, such as Malaysia's consistent lead and the rapid growth of Indonesia. The information is accurate based on the provided graph, and the structure allows for a logical flow of data. To reach a higher band, ensure that all comparisons are fully supported by specific data points throughout the body paragraphs, as some periods are described more generally than others.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.0

The response is logically organized with a clear introduction, an overview, and two body paragraphs that group the information effectively. The progression of ideas is smooth, moving from general trends to specific data comparisons. Cohesive devices such as 'Meanwhile', 'but then', and 'compared with' are used appropriately to link sentences and ideas. Paragraphing is used effectively to separate the initial data from the later trends and predictions. The response is easy to follow, and the relationship between the countries is clearly articulated throughout the text.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.0

You have used a sufficient range of vocabulary to convey the information accurately. Phrases like 'urban residents', 'least urbanised', 'rose steadily', and 'increased sharply' demonstrate a good command of topic-specific language. The vocabulary is precise and appropriate for an academic report. While the range is adequate, incorporating a few more sophisticated collocations or varied synonyms for 'increase' and 'growth' would enhance the lexical variety. The spelling is accurate throughout, and the word choices are natural and contribute to the clarity of the report.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The response demonstrates a good control of grammatical structures. You have successfully used a mix of simple and complex sentences, such as 'The Philippines rose steadily to around 50% in 1990, before increasing to roughly 70% by 2020.' Punctuation is generally accurate, and there are no significant errors that impede communication. The majority of your sentences are error-free, and you show flexibility in how you present the data. To improve further, try to incorporate a wider variety of complex grammatical structures, such as passive voice or participle clauses, to add more sophistication to your writing.

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