Band 6.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.0 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-09-10

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 provides details about the percentage of the population across four Asian countries living in cities from 1970 to today, with projections for 2030 and 2040.

Overall, the population of Malaysia escalated from second highest to top of the list, whereas the number of citizens in Thailand mostly plateaued and at the end of the period became the lowest population holder.

In 1970, Malaysia started with approximately 30\% of residents in urban areas, surged to 40\% and became the highest among all countries in 1980, then it skyrocketed to 83\% in 2024. In contrast, the Philippines started with 32\%, increased to 50\% of total population and is predicted to reach the peak of 54\% in 2040.

Conversely, Thailand began roughly with 18\% in 1970, rose to 29\% in 1990, remained stable for a decade and is expected to proliferate to 48\% in 2040. Furthermore, Indonesia commenced from a meager base of below 15\% in 1970, gradually reached approximately 29\% in 2020 and is estimated to reach almost 47\% at the end of the period 2024

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.0

You have successfully identified the main trends and provided a clear overview. You covered all four countries and included both historical data and future projections. However, there are some inaccuracies in your data reporting. For instance, you mention 2024 as a data point, which is not present on the graph, and your description of Malaysia's growth is slightly confusing regarding the timeline. To improve, ensure that your data points strictly align with the years provided in the prompt (1970–2040). While the main features are highlighted, a more precise comparison between the countries at specific intervals would strengthen the response.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5

The response is logically organized into clear paragraphs, with an introduction, an overview, and two body paragraphs. You use cohesive devices such as 'In contrast,' 'Conversely,' and 'Furthermore' to link ideas effectively. The progression of information is generally clear, moving from a general summary to specific country details. However, the transition between the overview and the body paragraphs could be smoother. Additionally, ensure that the referencing of years and data remains consistent throughout the text to avoid confusion for the reader.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.0

You demonstrate a good range of vocabulary, using words like 'escalated,' 'plateaued,' 'skyrocketed,' and 'proliferate' to describe trends. This shows an attempt to use less common lexical items. There are some minor issues with word choice, such as 'lowest population holder,' which is slightly unnatural. While the vocabulary is sufficient to convey your meaning clearly, further development of topic-specific collocations related to data description would help you reach a higher band. Overall, the range is adequate for the task.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.0

You use a mix of simple and complex sentence structures, such as the use of 'whereas' and 'although' clauses. Most of your sentences are clear and easy to follow. There are some minor grammatical slips, such as 'Thailand began roughly with 18%,' which should be 'Thailand began at roughly 18%.' Additionally, there are some punctuation and phrasing issues, such as the trailing '2024' at the end of the final sentence. Despite these minor errors, your control of grammar is generally good and does not impede communication.

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

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