Band 7.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.0 · 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 7.0)

The given line graph illustrates the population living in the cities of four asian countries between 1970 and 2020, and also the predictions from 2030 to 2040.

Overall, all four countries exhibit an upward trend in urbanisation over the entire period. Malaysia is projected to remain the most populated nation, while Thailand is projected to have a lower percentage of city dwellers by 2040.

In 1970, the Philippines had the highest urban population at just over 30%, which steadily rose to peak at nearly 50% in 1990, before dropping and stabilising. However, it is projected to rebound and reach 55% by 2040. In contrast, Malaysia started at around 30% in 1970; after that, it experienced rapid growth, overtaking all the nations to reach roughly 75% in 2020, with further expected increase to over 80% by 2040.

Indonesia and Thailand began with the lowest urban percentage in 1970 at approximately 18% and 15%, respectively. Indonesia's urban population rapidly grew after 1980, surpassing both Thailand and the Philippines to hit over 50% in 2020, and it is forecasted to reach nearly 65% by 2040. Thailand had showed the slowest growth throughout the period, reaching just under 35% in 2020, and it is projected to finish at the lowest at 50% by 2040.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.0

The response effectively addresses all parts of the task. You have successfully identified the main trends and provided a clear overview of the data. The selection of key features, such as the rapid growth of Malaysia and the contrasting growth rates of Indonesia and Thailand, is well-handled. You have also made relevant comparisons throughout the report. The data is accurately represented, and the inclusion of both past trends and future projections is handled logically. To reach a higher band, ensure that all data points mentioned are precise; for instance, ensure that the 'rebound' for the Philippines is clearly supported by the visual evidence provided in the graph.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The response is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a central focus, moving from the overview to specific country comparisons. Cohesive devices such as 'In contrast', 'however', and 'after that' are used effectively to link sentences and ideas. The paragraphing is appropriate, and the information flows smoothly. The use of referencing is generally clear, though occasionally the transition between the historical data and the future projections could be even more seamless. Overall, the structure is coherent and easy to follow throughout the report.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

You demonstrate a good range of vocabulary appropriate for an academic task. Phrases like 'upward trend', 'urbanisation', 'rapid growth', and 'forecasted to reach' are used accurately. There is a sufficient range of vocabulary to convey the information with precision. While the vocabulary is effective, it is mostly standard; incorporating a few more sophisticated collocations or varied synonyms for 'increase' and 'decrease' would elevate the score further. There are no significant spelling or word-choice errors that impede communication, and the tone remains formal and objective throughout the response.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.0

The response displays a good mix of simple and complex sentence structures. You have used a variety of grammatical forms, including passive constructions ('is projected to remain') and complex sentences with subordinate clauses. Most sentences are error-free, and your control of punctuation is generally sound. There is a minor error in 'Thailand had showed', which should be 'Thailand had shown'. Despite this, the majority of your sentences are accurate, and the grammatical errors present are rare and do not interfere with the clarity of your report. The control over tense usage for future projections is particularly well-managed.

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