Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 20 · 2026-08-17
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 7.5)
The table provides information about the population of New York City, comprising five districts, in 1800, 1900 and 2000.
Overall, the population of New York City increased dramatically over the 200-year period, rising from 79,216 in 1800 to more than 8 million in 2000. While Manhattan accounted for the largest proportion of the city's population initially, its share declined considerably over time, whereas the other four districts experienced substantial growth.
In 1800, the population of New York City stood at 79,216. This figure increased dramatically to 3,437,202 in 1900 before reaching 8,009,185 in 2000. In 1800, Manhattan accounted for more than half of the city's total population. However, its proportion fell to 54% in 1900 and declined further to just 19% by 2000.
By contrast, the other four districts experienced a significant increase in their combined share of the city's population. Together, they accounted for only 24% in 1800, but this figure rose substantially to 81% by 2000. Therefore, although Manhattan remained an important district, the population became increasingly concentrated in the other four districts over the period.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 7.5 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 7.5 |
| Lexical Resource | 7.0 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 7.5 |
| Overall | 7.5 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5
The response effectively addresses all parts of the task. You have provided a clear overview of the population trends and successfully selected key data points to illustrate the changes over the 200-year period. The comparison between Manhattan and the other four districts is well-handled, highlighting the shift in population concentration. You have accurately reported the figures from the tables and made relevant comparisons, such as the decline in Manhattan's share from 1800 to 2000. The information is well-selected and supports the main features identified in the overview, meeting the requirements for a high band score.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5
The response is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a distinct focus: the introduction, the overall trend, the specific data for the total population, and the comparative analysis of the districts. Cohesive devices such as 'While', 'However', 'By contrast', and 'Therefore' are used effectively to link ideas and guide the reader through the data. Paragraphing is used appropriately, and the information flows smoothly from one point to the next without any confusion or mechanical repetition.
Lexical Resource — Band 7.0
You demonstrate a good range of vocabulary appropriate for an academic task. Phrases like 'accounted for the largest proportion', 'declined considerably', and 'increasingly concentrated' show a level of precision and sophistication. The word choice is generally accurate and fits the context of describing statistical data well. While the vocabulary is effective, it could be further elevated with more varied synonyms for 'increase' or 'decline' to avoid slight repetition, but the current range is sufficient to convey meaning clearly and precisely throughout the report.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5
The writing exhibits a high level of grammatical control. You have used a mix of simple and complex sentence structures, such as the subordinate clauses in the second paragraph ('While Manhattan accounted for...'), which are error-free. Punctuation is accurate, and there are no significant grammatical slips that impede communication. The majority of your sentences are complex and well-constructed, showing a strong command of English grammar. The accuracy is consistent throughout the response, which is a hallmark of a high-scoring performance in this criterion.
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