Band 7.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.0 · Cambridge IELTS 20 · 2026-07-28

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 7.0)

The tables illustrate the changes in the total population of New York City between 1800 and 2000, as well as the population growth in its five districts: Manhattan, Brooklyn, the Bronx, Queens, and Staten Island. Overall, the city's population increased dramatically over the 200-year period, reflecting rapid urbanization and economic development. In the early years, Manhattan had the largest population because it was the commercial and cultural center of the city. However, as transportation and housing improved, Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx experienced significant population growth, especially during the twentieth century. Brooklyn became one of the most populated districts, while Queens also saw remarkable expansion due to suburban development. The Bronx recorded steady growth, whereas Staten Island remained the least populated borough despite gradual increases. By 2000, New York City had developed into one of the world's largest metropolitan areas, with population growth distributed more evenly across its five districts than in the early nineteenth century.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.0

The response provides a clear overview of the population trends in New York City and its five districts. However, it fails to include any specific data points from the tables. To achieve a higher band, you must support your descriptions with figures (e.g., the total population rising from 79,216 in 1800 to over 8 million in 2000). While you identify the main trends, the lack of supporting evidence means the task is only partially addressed. You should select key data points to illustrate the growth patterns you describe.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The response is logically organized, with a clear introduction and a cohesive flow of ideas. You use linking words such as 'however,' 'while,' and 'whereas' effectively to contrast the development of different districts. The paragraphing is appropriate for a summary task. To improve, ensure that the transition between the general city-wide trend and the specific district details is more seamless. Overall, the information is presented in a coherent manner that is easy to follow.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.5

You demonstrate a good range of vocabulary, using terms like 'urbanization,' 'metropolitan areas,' and 'gradual increases' appropriately. The language is natural and fits the academic context well. There are no significant errors in word choice or collocation. To reach a higher band, try to incorporate more precise vocabulary related to data trends, such as 'surged,' 'plateaued,' or 'proportionate distribution,' to add more sophistication to your analysis of the statistical information provided in the tables.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

Your grammar is generally accurate, and you use a mix of simple and complex sentence structures effectively. There are no major errors that impede communication. The sentence construction is clear, and punctuation is used correctly throughout the text. To improve further, you could experiment with more varied complex structures, such as using passive voice to describe the data (e.g., 'The highest population density was recorded in...') or using participle clauses to combine related ideas more fluidly.

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