Band 5.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 5.0 · Cambridge IELTS 20 · 2026-08-24
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 5.0)
The table shows changes in the population of Newwork city and its five districts between 1800 and 2000.
Overall, the population of New work City followed an upward trand throughout the period while the percentage of total population in Manhattan was experienced constantly decreased over the period.
Firstly, in 1800, the population of New Work city started from 79,215 population. While, Manhattan had basis population in 1800 at 76% and others districts had 18701, ar 24% of total. Whereas, in 1900, the number of population increased to 3,437,202 and other district also followed an upward trend. It was also increased in 1900 to 1,850,093, representing 54%. The proportion of Manhattan droped from 76% to 54%. While, the percentage of other districts was increased to 46% and it increased in 1900.
Eventually, the population of New work City ended at [redacted phone] in 2000 and Manhattan Propolion again decreased in 2000 from 54% to 19% but other districts represented increased trend at 81%.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 5.0 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 5.0 |
| Lexical Resource | 5.0 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 5.0 |
| Overall | 5.0 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.0
The response covers the main features of the data, including the overall population growth and the shift in proportions between Manhattan and the other districts. However, the analysis is somewhat superficial and lacks precision in reporting the data. For instance, the term 'other districts' is used loosely, and the specific figures for the individual districts (Brooklyn, Bronx, Queens, Staten Island) are ignored, which limits the depth of the report. The overview is present but could be more clearly articulated. To improve, ensure that all key trends are supported by accurate data points and that the distinction between the total population and the percentage distribution is handled with greater clarity.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 5.0
The essay is organised into paragraphs, which helps the reader follow the structure. However, the use of cohesive devices is often mechanical or inaccurate, such as the repetitive use of 'While' and 'Whereas' at the start of sentences where they do not function correctly as connectors. The progression of ideas is sometimes disjointed, particularly in the third paragraph where the transition between the 1800 and 1900 data is confusing. Referencing is occasionally unclear, making it difficult to track which data point belongs to which category. Improving the variety and accuracy of linking words would significantly enhance the flow of the response.
Lexical Resource — Band 5.0
The vocabulary is limited and repetitive, with several spelling errors such as 'Newwork', 'trand', and 'Propolion'. The range of vocabulary is basic and lacks the precision required for a high-scoring academic report. Phrases like 'basis population' and 'followed an upward trend' are used, but the overall control of word choice is weak. There is a lack of variety in reporting verbs and nouns related to data trends. To reach a higher band, you should focus on using more precise academic vocabulary to describe trends, such as 'fluctuated', 'surged', or 'accounted for', and ensure correct spelling of key terms.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.0
The response contains frequent grammatical errors that occasionally impede the reader's understanding. There are issues with subject-verb agreement, such as 'Manhattan was experienced constantly decreased' and 'percentage of other districts was increased'. Sentence structures are generally simple, and attempts at more complex sentences often result in errors, such as the misuse of 'While' as a sentence starter without a main clause. Punctuation is also inconsistent. To improve, focus on mastering basic sentence construction, ensuring that verbs are correctly conjugated, and avoiding unnecessary passive constructions where active voice would be clearer.
See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.
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