Band 6.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.0 · Cambridge IELTS 20 · 2026-08-23

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 6.0)

The former table illustrates variation in the total population of New York City over two centuries between 1800 and 2000, while accompanying tables highlight the differences in the population of five districts of New York City over the same duration.

Overall, it is clear that the population of New York City increased over the period, where the cumulative population of Brooklyn, Bronx, Queens and Staten Island was dominant by the end of the given duration.

In 1800, New York City's population was the least compared to that in 1900 and 2000, standing at 79216. Furthermore, in the beginning of given period 76% of the total City's population was contributed by Manhattan, while remaining 18701 was recorded in other four districts. Similarly, in 1900 the total population of New York City surged to [redacted phone], where [redacted phone] were residents of Manhattan, while remaining 46% of total population was attributed by Brooklyn, Bronx, Queens and Staten Island.

Lastly, at the end of duration, in 2000, the total population of City was calculated as [redacted phone]. With time the population of Manhattan declined whereas combined population of remaining four districts rose. Therefore, in 2000, an overwhelming 81% of population was located in the other four districts while Manhattan dwellers were only 19% of total New York City's population .

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.0

You have successfully identified the main trends and provided a clear overview of the population shifts in New York City. You effectively compared the total population growth with the changing distribution across the five districts. However, there are some inaccuracies in the data interpretation. For instance, you stated the 1800 population was 79,216, but the table shows 79,216 for Manhattan alone, while the total was 79,216. Additionally, your calculation of the 1900 population distribution is slightly imprecise. To reach a higher band, ensure that all data points are transcribed and compared with absolute precision, as accuracy is a key component of Task Achievement in Academic Task 1.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5

The response is logically organized, with a clear introduction, overview, and body paragraphs that follow a chronological progression. You use cohesive devices such as 'furthermore', 'similarly', and 'therefore' to link ideas effectively. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate the different time periods. The flow of information is generally smooth, though some transitions between sentences could be more sophisticated to avoid a slightly mechanical feel. Overall, the structure is clear and supports the reader's understanding of the data presented.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.0

You demonstrate a sufficient range of vocabulary to convey the information clearly. Phrases like 'cumulative population', 'dominant', and 'overwhelming' are used effectively. There are some minor issues with collocation and word choice, such as 'at the end of duration' (better: 'by the end of the period') and 'contributed by' (better: 'accounted for by'). While the vocabulary is adequate for the task, incorporating more precise academic collocations would elevate the response to a higher band.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.0

You use a mix of simple and complex sentence structures, which is appropriate for this task. Most sentences are clear, and your meaning is rarely obscured by grammatical errors. However, there are some minor slips, such as 'in the beginning of given period' (missing articles) and 'total population of City' (missing 'the'). Additionally, some phrasing is slightly awkward, such as 'remaining 18701 was recorded'. Increasing the variety of complex structures and ensuring consistent use of articles would improve your score in this criterion.

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

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