Band 5.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 5.5 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-08-28
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 below provides information about the proportion of population in four Asian countries residing in cities from 1970 to 2020 with predictions for 2030 and 2040.
overall, Malaysia records the highest percentage to be increased in future with Thailand to be the least country among all four Asian nations.
In contrast to, Malaysia starts with 30% initially then saw a gradual increase till 1990 before reaching up to its predictable percentage of 80 in 2040. Moreover, Philippines population was steady for 10 years then it saw rapid increase for a decade before dropping down nearly 40% in 2010 with its predict percentage of 50% in 2040.
Although, people living in cities of Thailand depicts the rapid changes among these four Asian countries At the beginning, it gradually goes up in three decades then remains steady for next 30 years before showing upward trend with more than 40% in last ten years. In addition, Indonesian population records an upward trend with more than 50% population predicted to be lived in cities in near future.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 5.5 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 5.5 |
| Lexical Resource | 5.5 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 5.5 |
| Overall | 5.5 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.5
The response covers all four countries and the time frame provided. However, the analysis is somewhat superficial and contains inaccuracies in data interpretation. For instance, stating that the Philippines dropped to 'nearly 40%' in 2010 is not clearly supported by the visual data, and the description of Thailand's trends is confusing. While you have identified the main features, the lack of precision in reporting the figures and the failure to make meaningful comparisons between the countries limits the score. To improve, ensure that you accurately transcribe data points and use them to support clear comparative statements rather than just listing trends for each country individually.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 5.5
The essay is organized into paragraphs, but the logical flow is hindered by awkward transitions and mechanical phrasing. Phrases like 'In contrast to,' and 'Although, people living in cities' are used incorrectly, which disrupts the reader's understanding. The use of cohesive devices is often forced or inaccurate, making the progression of ideas feel disjointed. To improve, focus on using transition words that accurately reflect the relationship between sentences, such as 'whereas' for contrast or 'furthermore' for addition, and ensure that each paragraph has a clear, singular focus.
Lexical Resource — Band 5.5
The range of vocabulary is limited and repetitive. You rely heavily on basic terms like 'increase,' 'steady,' and 'trend.' There are also issues with word choice and collocation, such as 'predictable percentage' instead of 'projected figure' and 'least country' instead of 'lowest percentage.' Some phrasing is unnatural, such as 'predicted to be lived in cities.' To reach a higher band, you should incorporate more precise academic vocabulary related to data description, such as 'fluctuated,' 'surpassed,' 'a significant proportion,' or 'upward trajectory,' and pay closer attention to correct word forms.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.5
The response contains a mix of simple and complex structures, but there are frequent grammatical errors that occasionally impede clarity. Examples include 'the least country among all four,' 'Philippines population was steady,' and 'predict percentage of 50%.' There are also issues with subject-verb agreement and article usage. While the meaning is generally understandable, the frequency of these errors prevents the writing from reaching a higher band. Focus on proofreading for basic errors, particularly with pluralization, articles, and the correct use of passive voice when describing data trends.
See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.
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