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)
The diagram illustrates the process by which a rain-shadow desert is formed.
Overall, the formation of a rain-shadow desert occurs when moist air from the sea is forced to rise over mountains. As the air rises, it cools and produces rainfall on the windward side. In contrast, the air becomes dry after crossing the mountain and creates arid conditions on the leeward side, where a rain-shadow desert eventually develops.
At the beginning of the process, winds carrying moist air blow inland from the sea towards a mountain range. When these winds reach the mountains, they are forced to move upwards along the windward slope. As the air rises, it expands and cools, causing water vapour to condense into clouds. Continued cooling results in precipitation, and most of the moisture falls as rain on the windward side of the mountains.
After releasing its moisture, the air continues to travel over the mountain peak and descends along the leeward side. During its descent, the air becomes warmer and significantly drier because it has already lost most of its moisture through rainfall. Consequently, little or no precipitation occurs on this side of the mountain. Finally, these dry winds move further inland, creating extremely dry conditions where vegetation is scarce. As a result, a rain-shadow desert is formed in the inland region beyond the mountains.
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 is excellent and fully addresses all parts of the task. You have clearly identified the main features of the process, starting from the moist air movement to the final formation of the desert. The comparison between the windward and leeward sides is well-developed and logical. The overview provided in the second paragraph effectively captures the essence of the process, which is a key requirement for a high band score in Task 1. There are no omissions, and the information is presented in a clear, chronological, and accurate manner.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5
The response is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a distinct focus, moving from the introduction to the windward side, and finally the leeward side. Cohesive devices such as 'In contrast', 'At the beginning of the process', 'Consequently', and 'As a result' are used naturally and effectively to guide the reader through the process. The paragraphing is skillful and contributes to the overall clarity of the explanation. The flow of information is smooth and coherent throughout.
Lexical Resource — Band 7.0
You demonstrate a wide and precise range of vocabulary appropriate for a scientific process description. Terms such as 'windward slope', 'leeward side', 'condense', 'precipitation', and 'arid conditions' are used accurately and in the correct context. The language is sophisticated and natural, showing a high level of control. 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 response displays a wide range of grammatical structures with high accuracy. You effectively use complex sentences, such as 'As the air rises, it expands and cools, causing water vapour to condense into clouds.' The use of passive voice ('is formed', 'are forced') is appropriate for describing a process. Punctuation is used correctly to support the structure of your sentences. The majority of the sentences are error-free, and the few minor slips that might occur are non-existent here, reflecting a very high level of grammatical control.
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