Band 6.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.0 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-09-21

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 illustrates changes in the percentage of the population living in cities across four Asian countries, namely the Philippines, Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia, over the period from 1970 to 2040.

Overall, it is evident that the figures followed varying trends over the given period, with some countries increasing overall. Malaysia recorded the highest figure, whereas Thailand had the lowest figure, however, Indonesia increased significantly over the period.

Looking at the details, the Philippines stood at approximately 31% in 1970 and then fluctuated slightly before reaching roughly 55% by the end of the period. Moreover, Thailand started at 19% in 1970 and increased continuously to approximately 48% in 2040.

Malaysia stood at 30% in 1970 and then rose sharply to approximately 82% by the end of the period. Furthermore, Indonesia started at roughly 14% and rose dramatically to

approximately 43% in 2040.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.5

The student provides a good overview of the graph, identifying general trends and extreme points (Malaysia highest, Thailand lowest). Key features of all four countries are selected and reported, covering the timeframe from 1970 to 2040. However, there are some minor factual inaccuracies in the data reporting, such as stating Indonesia rose to approximately 43% in 2040, whereas the graph shows it reaching 64% by 2040 (43% was the figure for 2010). Additionally, the word count is 143 words, falling short of the 150-word minimum requirement. This slight under-length penalty prevents the task achievement score from reaching higher bands.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.0

The response is logically organized with a clear introduction, an overview paragraph, and body paragraphs detailing individual country trends. Cohesive devices are used reasonably well to connect ideas (e.g., 'Overall', 'Looking at the details', 'Moreover', 'Furthermore'). Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate the different sections of the report. The progression of ideas is generally clear, though the cohesive framework remains somewhat mechanical. Referencing and linking are mostly appropriate, ensuring the reader can follow the comparisons made across the four Asian nations.

Lexical Resource — Band 5.5

The student demonstrates an adequate range of vocabulary suitable for the task, successfully using terms such as 'illustrates', 'percentage', 'fluctuated', and 'dramatically'. Less common vocabulary is attempted with some success, although there are minor inaccuracies in word choice and data handling. Spelling is accurate throughout the text. While the range is sufficient to communicate the main features of the line graph, it lacks the flexibility and precision of higher bands due to repetition of basic reporting structures and limited exploitation of uncommon lexical items.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.5

The writer uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms, incorporating introductory clauses and relative structures effectively (e.g., 'The line graph illustrates changes in the percentage...', '...namely the Philippines, Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia, over the period...'). There is a good mix of past and future time frames ('stood at', 'will reach' implied through 'by 2040'). Grammatical accuracy is generally high, with the majority of sentences being error-free. Punctuation is used correctly to separate clauses and list items. The control over grammar supports clear communication without causing difficulty for the reader.

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.