Band 5.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 5.5 · Cambridge IELTS 20 · 2026-07-30
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 5.5)
The first table illustrates in New York city 1800 to 2000 years changes in the total population. The second and third tables illustrates in a population difference in a five districts of the city (Manhattan, Brooklyn, Bronx, Queens queens, Staten Island over the same period.
overall, In new York city population percentage regularly increase, such us in 1800 years population percentage 79,216. and in 2000 year percentage 8,009,185.
In a new york city call five districts) 1800 year population
Percentage was 79,216, rather then that in 1900 year Population Percentage was 3,437,202 that is difference of Population in 1800 to 1900 years. Rather then that more difference in 2000 Population Percentage was 8009,185.
In Manhattan in 1800 year Population Percentage was 76%, but in other districts Population Percentage was only 24%. In Manhattan in 1900 year Population Percentage 54%. Rather then that in 2000 19%. such as Population Percentage was decrease. And in other districts in 1900 year Population Percentage was 46% and in 2000 Population Percentage was 81%. That is Population Percentage was increase in other district.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 5.5 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 5.5 |
| Lexical Resource | 5.5 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 5.5 |
| Overall | 5.5 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.5
The response attempts to address the task by summarizing the provided tables, but it struggles with clarity and accuracy. While you identify the total population growth and the shift in district proportions, the presentation of data is often confusing. For instance, you refer to population figures as 'percentage' throughout, which is inaccurate as the tables show raw numbers. The comparison between Manhattan and the other districts is a good attempt at highlighting a main feature, but the lack of precise data reporting and the repetitive nature of the analysis limit the score. To improve, focus on distinguishing between raw numbers and percentages and ensure the data points are clearly linked to the correct years.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 5.5
The essay is organized into paragraphs, which helps the reader follow the structure. However, the use of cohesive devices is mechanical and often repetitive, such as the frequent use of 'Rather then that' to transition between ideas. The logical progression is hindered by awkward phrasing and unclear referencing, making it difficult to follow the flow of information. Paragraphing is present, but the internal structure of the paragraphs lacks the necessary linking words to create a smooth, logical argument. Improving the variety of transition signals and ensuring that each paragraph has a clear focus would significantly enhance the coherence of your writing.
Lexical Resource — Band 5.5
The vocabulary is quite limited and repetitive. You frequently use the word 'percentage' incorrectly when referring to total population counts, which indicates a misunderstanding of the data. There is little evidence of less common lexical items or an attempt to use precise terminology related to data description (e.g., 'soared', 'declined', 'proportion'). The phrasing is often simplistic, and there are errors in word choice that occasionally make the meaning ambiguous. To reach a higher band, you should expand your vocabulary to include words that describe trends and proportions accurately, and avoid repeating the same basic structures throughout the response.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.5
The response contains frequent grammatical errors that impede communication. There are issues with subject-verb agreement (e.g., 'tables illustrates'), incorrect preposition usage, and awkward sentence construction. The range of structures is limited, consisting mostly of simple sentences that lack complexity. Punctuation is also inconsistent, particularly with the use of parentheses and commas. While the meaning is generally understandable, the high frequency of errors in basic grammar and sentence structure prevents the essay from reaching a higher band. Focusing on subject-verb agreement and practicing the construction of complex sentences will be essential for improvement.
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