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 in 2040. 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 main trends and selects key countries to compare. However, there are some inaccuracies in reporting the data towards the end of the text. For instance, the student states that Indonesia rose to approximately 43% in 2040, whereas the graph indicates it reaches around 64% by 2040 (43% was actually the figure for 2010). Additionally, the word count is 145 words, which falls slightly short of the 150-word minimum requirement. This results in a minor penalty under Task Achievement. Despite these flaws, the main features are successfully identified and described.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5

The report is logically organised with a clear introduction, an overview paragraph, and detailed body paragraphs examining specific countries. Cohesive devices such as 'Overall', 'Looking at the details', 'Moreover', and 'Furthermore' are used effectively to guide the reader through the data. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate the overview from the specific data points. Referencing is generally clear, resulting in a cohesive and easily readable piece of writing that meets higher band standards.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.0

The student demonstrates an adequate and functional range of vocabulary suited to a Task 1 response, using appropriate verbs and adjectives of change such as 'fluctuated slightly', 'increased continuously', 'rose sharply', and 'rose dramatically'. There are occasional slight inaccuracies in data interpretation or phrasing, but overall the vocabulary is sufficient to convey the trends accurately. Less common lexical items are attempted with reasonable control, enabling clear communication of the visual data.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.5

The response features a satisfactory mix of simple and complex sentence forms, such as introductory subordinate clauses ('Overall, it is evident that...') and past-tense time phrases. Grammar and punctuation are generally well controlled. While there is a notable data error regarding Indonesia's final projection in the body text, the grammatical structures used to present the figures are accurate. The majority of sentences are free of grammatical errors, supporting clear communication throughout.

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

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