Band 8.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 8.0 · Cambridge IELTS 20 · 2026-08-10

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 8.0)

The tables provide information about changes in the total population of New York City and the populations of its five districts, namely Manhattan, Brooklyn, the Bronx, Queens and Staten Island, between 1800 and 2000.

Overall, the population of New York City increased significantly during the 200-year period. Manhattan had the largest population in the early years, but its population later decreased, while the other districts generally experienced considerable growth. Brooklyn and Queens became the most populated areas towards the end of the period.

In 1800, the total population of New York City was about 60,000. This figure increased gradually to more than 500,000 by 1850 and reached over 1.1 million in 1880. The population continued to rise throughout the twentieth century, reaching approximately 8 million in 2000.

Manhattan was the largest district in 1800, with around 60,000 people. Its population grew rapidly and reached about 2.3 million in 1910. However, after this point, it began to decline, falling to around 1.5 million by 2000. In contrast, Brooklyn showed strong growth throughout most of the period. Its population increased from around 5,000 in 1800 to more than 2.4 million in 2000, making it one of the largest districts.

The Bronx, Queens and Staten Island had relatively small populations at the beginning of the period. However, all three districts experienced substantial growth, particularly during the twentieth century. By 2000, Queens had a population of over 2.2 million, while the Bronx had around 1.3 million. Staten Island remained the least populated district, although its population also increased considerably compared with 1800.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 8.0

The response effectively addresses all parts of the task. You have provided a clear overview of the trends and successfully selected and reported the main features, such as the overall population growth and the shifting dominance of the districts. The comparisons between Manhattan's decline and the growth of other districts are well-integrated. The data is accurately represented, and the key features are highlighted without unnecessary detail. This meets the requirements for a high band score as it provides a comprehensive summary of the provided tables.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.0

The response is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a distinct focus, moving from the general overview to the total population and then to the specific district trends. Cohesive devices such as 'In contrast', 'However', and 'while' are used effectively to link ideas and create a smooth flow. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate the different aspects of the data. The information is easy to follow, and the relationship between the different parts of the report is clear throughout.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.5

You have used a sufficient range of vocabulary to convey the information precisely. Phrases like 'experienced considerable growth', 'remained the least populated', and 'showed strong growth' are appropriate for this task. The vocabulary is natural and fits the academic context well. There are no significant errors in word choice or collocation. While the range is good, incorporating a few more sophisticated synonyms for 'increased' or 'decreased' could elevate the score further, but the current usage is accurate and effective for the task.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.0

The response demonstrates a good command of grammatical structures. You have successfully used a mix of simple and complex sentences, such as 'Manhattan had the largest population in the early years, but its population later decreased'. Punctuation is accurate, and there are no grammatical errors that impede communication. The majority of your sentences are error-free, and the control over tense usage (past simple for historical data) is consistent and correct. The writing is clear and professional throughout.

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

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