Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-09-11

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 7.5)

The line graph delineates the percentage of urban population in four Asian nations—Philippines, Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia—over a period spanning from 1970 to 2040.

A discernible upward trajectory in urbanization is evident across all four countries throughout the designated timeframe, with projections indicating that the Philippines is likely to exceed 80%, while Malaysia and Thailand are anticipated to stabilize around 70%, alongside Indonesia reaching just above 60% by 2040.

In 1970, the proportion of the urban population in Malaysia and the Philippines was relatively modest, each at approximately 30%, whereas Thailand and Indonesia recorded even lower figures, around 15%. Over the subsequent decades, Malaysia exhibited the most pronounced increase, soaring to 70% by 2020 and projected to approach nearly 90% by 2040. The Philippines also demonstrated significant urban growth, reaching nearly 80% by 2020 and continuing on an upward trajectory towards 2040.

Conversely, Thailand's urban population experienced noticeable growth, advancing to approximately 30% by 1990, albeit with fluctuations in the following decades. This trend is projected to culminate in a significant rise of about 15% by 2040. Indonesia, initially possessing the lowest urban population percentage, mirrored this growth pattern, reaching approximately 40% by 2020, with expectations to achieve 60% by 2040.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The response effectively covers all parts of the task. You have successfully identified the main trends and provided a clear overview of the data. The selection of key features, such as the initial low starting points in 1970 and the projected growth by 2040, is accurate. You have also made relevant comparisons between the countries throughout the text. The data is presented clearly, and the inclusion of specific percentages adds to the precision of the report. The response is well-structured and fulfills all requirements of an Academic Task 1 report.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The response is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a distinct focus, moving from the introduction to the overview, and then into detailed comparisons. Cohesive devices such as 'conversely', 'whereas', and 'subsequent decades' are used effectively to link ideas and maintain flow. The paragraphing is appropriate, and the information is presented in a way that is easy to follow. There is a clear sense of structure, and the transition between the general trends and specific data points is smooth and professional.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.5

You have demonstrated a good range of vocabulary, using precise terms such as 'delineates', 'discernible upward trajectory', 'pronounced increase', and 'culminate'. The language is appropriate for an academic report and shows a high level of control. There are no significant errors in word choice or collocation. You have successfully avoided repetition by using varied synonyms to describe the trends in urbanization. The vocabulary is sophisticated enough to convey the information clearly and accurately, meeting the criteria for a high band score.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The response displays a wide range of grammatical structures, including complex sentences and accurate use of subordinate clauses. The majority of the sentences are error-free, and the punctuation is used correctly throughout. You have maintained a consistent and appropriate tone. There are no noticeable grammatical errors that impede communication. The control over sentence structure is strong, allowing for a clear and sophisticated presentation of the data. The use of participial phrases and varied sentence beginnings contributes to the overall quality of the writing.

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