Band 5.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 5.5 · 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 5.5)
The line graph depicts the information about the percentage of the population in four Asian countries between 1970 and 2020 with predictions for 2030 and 2040.
Overall, it is clear that the population of Malaysia is significantly growing throughout the period. In contrast, Philippines population is fluctuating till 2040. However, Indonesia population is increasing lightly.
In 1970, Population of Malaysia was only 30% and its remained till 1980. After that, it is significantly grew and i will be reach at 80% at the end of 2040. Thailand had 15 % population in 1970, this grew slowly and will reach to 45% of population till 2040.
Thailand population in 1970 was about 19% , they fluctuate throughout the period and they will reach to 45% of population till 2040. In the Philippines, amount of citizens was 32% in 1970, However, they will face the minor increase which accounts for 55% at the end of 2040.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 5.5 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 5.5 |
| Lexical Resource | 5.5 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 5.0 |
| Overall | 5.5 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.5
The response covers the main features of the graph, including the trends for all four countries. However, the analysis is somewhat superficial and contains factual inconsistencies. For instance, you mention Thailand twice with different data points, and the description of the Philippines' trend as 'fluctuating' is not supported by the steady upward trajectory shown in the graph. While you identify the start and end points, the comparison between countries is limited. To reach a higher band, ensure that data points are accurately transcribed and that you group information logically to highlight clear trends and significant differences between the countries rather than listing them individually.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 5.5
The essay is organised into paragraphs, which helps the reader follow the structure. However, the progression of ideas is sometimes disjointed. The use of cohesive devices is basic and occasionally repetitive (e.g., 'In 1970', 'After that'). There are also issues with referencing; for example, the second paragraph mentions 'Philippines population is fluctuating', but the subsequent data does not clearly support this claim. Improving the use of linking words and ensuring that each paragraph has a clear, unified focus would significantly enhance the flow of your writing.
Lexical Resource — Band 5.5
The vocabulary is adequate for the task but lacks variety and precision. You rely on simple verbs like 'growing', 'increasing', and 'grew'. There is also some awkward phrasing, such as 'increasing lightly' and 'amount of citizens'. To improve, try to incorporate more sophisticated vocabulary related to trends, such as 'climb', 'surge', 'plateau', or 'gradual increase'. Additionally, ensure that you use precise terminology when referring to demographic data, such as 'the proportion of the urban population' rather than 'amount of citizens'.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.0
The response contains a mix of simple and complex sentence structures, but there are frequent grammatical errors that occasionally impede clarity. Examples include 'its remained till 1980' (subject-verb agreement), 'it is significantly grew' (incorrect tense), and 'i will be reach' (incorrect modal structure). Punctuation is also inconsistent, particularly with the use of commas and capitalisation. While the meaning is generally understandable, the high frequency of errors in basic sentence construction prevents the response from reaching a higher band. Focus on mastering subject-verb agreement and correct tense usage for future predictions.
See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.
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