Band 6.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.0 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-09-03

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 6.0)

The multiple line graph illustrates the proportion of population of four Asian nations living in urban areas named Philippines, Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia from 1970 to 2020, with the predictions for 2030 and 2040.

Considering from an overall perspective, it can be apparently observed that in all cities the percentage of population was gradually increasing, However, Malaysia recorded the highest growth, whilst figure of Philippines was fluctuating throughout the period.

To begin with, 30% population recorded for Malaysia in 1970, which then increased to nearly 45% before experiencing a highest growth and accounted around 76% in 2020. And as per the forecast it will still rise and stood at over 80% in 2040. In contrast, Philippines was observed at 31% in the beginning and remained relatively constant till a decade, However, its figure rise to nearly 50% in 1990 before witnessing a decrease and noticed at around 42% and again it showed a rising figure and as per the prediction in future, it will rise and stood at nearly 53%.

Furthermore, 19% citizens were reported in Thailand in 1970, which further gradually increasing till 1990 at approximately 30% and the figure were remained relatively unchanged till 2020. Although, according to future projection, the population will increase to near 50%. Nevertheless, the least population was recorded in Indonesia with only 11% before experiencing continuous growth in population. In 2020, the population were at near 30% and after 2 decades it rose to 50% and the forecast indicates that in 2040 the residents will be counted around 60%.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.0

The response covers all parts of the task by identifying the main trends and making relevant comparisons. You successfully highlighted the overall upward trend and identified key features such as Malaysia's significant growth and the fluctuations in the Philippines. However, the analysis is slightly hindered by some inaccuracies in data reporting; for instance, describing the Philippines' trend as 'fluctuating' is a bit vague, and some specific data points could be more precisely linked to the years provided. To reach a higher band, ensure that the overview clearly contrasts the most significant differences between the countries rather than just listing individual trends.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.0

The response is logically organized into clear paragraphs, with an introduction, an overview, and two body paragraphs. You use cohesive devices such as 'To begin with,' 'In contrast,' and 'Furthermore' to guide the reader. However, the use of some cohesive devices is slightly mechanical or occasionally misused, such as starting a sentence with 'However,' after a comma in the second paragraph. Additionally, some transitions between sentences feel a bit repetitive. Improving the variety of linking words and ensuring they are used with correct punctuation will help improve the flow and coherence of your writing.

Lexical Resource — Band 5.5

You demonstrate an adequate range of vocabulary for the task, using terms like 'proportion,' 'urban areas,' 'fluctuating,' and 'forecast.' There are some instances of awkward phrasing or word choice, such as 'figure of Philippines' (should be 'the figure for the Philippines') and 'residents will be counted' (which is slightly unnatural in this context). While you attempt to use less common vocabulary, there are occasional errors in collocation. To improve, focus on using more precise academic collocations and ensure that your word choices are consistently natural and accurate.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.5

You use a mix of simple and complex sentence structures, which is appropriate for this task. However, there are frequent grammatical errors, particularly with subject-verb agreement (e.g., 'the figure were remained,' 'the population were at') and article usage (e.g., 'in all cities,' 'in Philippines'). Punctuation is also inconsistent, with several run-on sentences or comma splices. While these errors do not significantly impede communication, they occur frequently enough to prevent a higher score. Focusing on proofreading for basic agreement and punctuation will significantly enhance the quality of your writing.

See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.

Browse more IELTS Writing model answers or get your own writing scored by the same AI examiner.