Band 6.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.0 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-09-04

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 line graph compares the percentage of people living in cities in four Asian countries between 1970 and 2020, with projections for 2030 and 2040.

Overall, the proportion of people living in cities increased in all four countries throughout the period. Malaysia had the highest percentage for most of the period, while Thailand generally recorded the lowest figure. However, Indonesia is expected to experience particularly significant growth in urbanisation in the coming years.

Malaysia started at relatively high level in 1970 and then steadily increased, reaching a much higher proportion by 2040. The figure rose from 30% in 1970 to approximately 80% in 2040. Whereas in Philippines the proportion rose from 31% in 1970, to almost 52% in 2040.

Thailand started at around 17% and increased gradually to almost 45% . In contrast, Indonesia experienced a sharper rise, reaching approximately 60% by 2020. Indonesia had the least proportion in 1990 but ended up at the second most populated city.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.0

The response effectively identifies the main trends and provides a clear overview of the data. You have successfully highlighted the general upward trend and made relevant comparisons between the countries, such as noting Malaysia's dominance and Indonesia's significant growth. However, the report could be improved by including more specific data points for the 2030 and 2040 projections to fully support the 'predictions' aspect of the prompt. Additionally, the statement 'Indonesia had the least proportion in 1990' is factually incorrect based on the provided graph, which shows Thailand starting lower. Ensuring data accuracy is crucial for a higher band score.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5

The essay is logically organized into four paragraphs, with a clear introduction, overview, and body paragraphs. The progression of ideas is easy to follow. You use some cohesive devices effectively, such as 'In contrast' and 'Whereas'. However, the transition between the overview and the body paragraphs could be smoother. Some referencing is slightly mechanical, and the final sentence regarding Indonesia's ranking is a bit confusingly phrased. Overall, the paragraphing is appropriate and contributes to a coherent response.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.0

You demonstrate a sufficient range of vocabulary to convey the information clearly. Phrases like 'projections for', 'proportion of people', and 'sharper rise' are used appropriately. There are some minor issues with word choice, such as 'least proportion' instead of 'lowest percentage' and 'second most populated city' (the graph refers to the percentage of the population living in cities, not the total city population). To reach a higher band, try to incorporate more precise academic collocations and avoid repetitive phrasing.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.0

The response uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures. Most sentences are clear and error-free, though there are some minor grammatical slips, such as 'Malaysia started at relatively high level' (missing an article: 'a relatively high level') and 'Whereas in Philippines' (missing 'the'). Punctuation is generally accurate, although there is an unnecessary space before the period in the sentence 'almost 45% .'. The control of grammar is generally good, and errors do not impede communication.

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

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