Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-08-06

IELTS Writing Task 1 question

The diagram below shows how one type of desert, known as a rain-shadow desert, is formed.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

The formation of rain-shadow deserts

Student answer (Band 7.5)

he diagram illustrates the process by which a rain-shadow desert is formed as moist air moves across a mountain range.

Overall, the formation of a rain-shadow desert occurs because mountains block moist air, causing heavy rainfall on one side while creating dry conditions on the opposite side. As a result, lush vegetation develops on the windward side, whereas a desert forms on the leeward side.

The process begins when warm, moisture-laden air from the ocean is blown inland by prevailing winds. As the air reaches the mountain slopes, it is forced to rise. During this upward movement, the air cools, and the water vapors condenses into clouds. This condensation leads to precipitation, with rain falling mainly on the windward side of the mountains. Consequently, this area receives abundant rainfall and supports dense vegetation.

After crossing the mountain peak, the air has already lost most of its moisture. As it descends the leeward slope, it becomes warmer and drier due to compression. Because little or no moisture remains, almost no rainfall occurs on this side of the mountain. The lack of precipitation results in dry, barren land, eventually forming a rain-shadow desert.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The response fully addresses all requirements of the task. You have provided a clear overview of the process, highlighting the contrast between the windward and leeward sides of the mountain. The main features—moisture-laden air, condensation, precipitation, and the resulting rain-shadow effect—are accurately identified and described in a logical sequence. The comparison between the lush windward side and the barren leeward side is well-integrated, effectively summarizing the diagram's information. No key features were omitted, and the information is presented in a professional, academic tone suitable for an IELTS Task 1 report.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The response is logically organized, with a clear introduction, a concise overview, and two body paragraphs that detail the process chronologically. The progression of ideas is smooth, moving from the initial moisture intake to the final formation of the desert. Cohesive devices such as 'As a result,' 'Consequently,' and 'After crossing' are used effectively to link sentences and ideas. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate the distinct stages of the process, ensuring the reader can easily follow the explanation of the rain-shadow phenomenon.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.0

You demonstrate a wide and precise range of vocabulary, which is well-suited to the topic. Terms such as 'moisture-laden,' 'prevailing winds,' 'condensation,' 'leeward,' and 'compression' are used accurately and naturally. The language is sophisticated and contributes to a clear, academic description of the process. There are no noticeable errors in word choice or collocation, and the vocabulary effectively conveys the technical nature of the diagram without being overly repetitive.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The writing displays a high level of grammatical control. You have successfully used a variety of complex sentence structures, such as participial phrases ('As the air reaches the mountain slopes, it is forced to rise') and subordinate clauses, which enhance the flow of the text. The grammar is consistently accurate throughout the response, with no significant errors in tense, subject-verb agreement, or punctuation. The majority of sentences are error-free, reflecting a strong command of English grammar.

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