Band 9.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 9.0 · Cambridge IELTS 20 · 2026-07-27

IELTS Writing Task 1 question

The first table below shows changes in the total population of New York City from 1800 to 2000. The second and third tables show changes in the population of the five districts of the city (Manhattan, Brooklyn, Bronx, Queens, Staten Island) over the same period.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

Student answer (Band 9.0)

The tables compare the population of New York City and its distribution between Manhattan and the other four districts (Brooklyn, Bronx, Queens, and Staten Island) in 1800, 1900, and 2000.

Overall, the total population of New York City increased dramatically over the 200-year period. Although Manhattan remained the most populated district in 1800, its share of the city's population declined steadily, while the combined population of the other four districts grew significantly and became the majority by 2000.

In 1800, New York City had a total population of 79,216 people. Of these, 60,515 lived in Manhattan, accounting for 76% of the city's population. In contrast, the other four districts had only 18,701 residents, representing 24% of the total.

By 1900, the city's population had risen sharply to 3,437,202. Manhattan experienced substantial growth, reaching 1,850,093 people. However, its proportion of the total population fell to 54%. Meanwhile, the population of the other districts increased even more rapidly to 1,587,109, making up 46% of the city's population.

In 2000, the total population reached 8,009,185. Although Manhattan's population decreased slightly to 1,538,096, its share dropped considerably to only 19%. By comparison, the combined population of Brooklyn, the Bronx, Queens, and Staten Island rose dramatically to 6,471,089, accounting for 81% of the total population.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 9.0

The response is excellent. You have successfully identified and reported the main features of the data, including the overall trend of population growth and the significant shift in distribution between Manhattan and the other districts. You have made relevant comparisons throughout the report, such as contrasting the 1800 figures with the 2000 figures and highlighting the changing proportions. The data is accurately represented, and the overview provides a clear summary of the key trends. You have fully addressed all parts of the task, and the information is well-selected and logically presented.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 9.0

The response is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a distinct focus, moving from an introduction and overview to detailed chronological analysis. Cohesive devices such as 'In contrast', 'Meanwhile', and 'By comparison' are used effectively to link ideas and guide the reader. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate the different time periods, and the referencing is clear throughout. The flow of information is smooth and natural, making the report very easy to follow.

Lexical Resource — Band 9.0

You have used a wide range of vocabulary with precision and natural control. Phrases like 'declined steadily', 'rose sharply', and 'accounting for' are used accurately in the context of describing statistical data. The vocabulary is varied and sophisticated, demonstrating a high level of lexical flexibility. There are no noticeable errors in word choice or collocation, and the language used is entirely appropriate for an academic report. The use of terms such as 'proportion' and 'distribution' adds to the academic tone.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 9.0

The response demonstrates a wide range of grammatical structures with full flexibility and accuracy. You have successfully used a mix of simple and complex sentences, including subordinate clauses ('Although Manhattan remained...', 'Of these, 60,515 lived...'). Punctuation is used correctly, and there are no grammatical errors. The control over sentence structure is excellent, and the writing is error-free, which is characteristic of the highest band level.

Browse more IELTS Writing model answers or get your own writing scored by the same AI examiner.