Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.5 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-08-09

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 6.5)

The diagram illustrates the formation process of rain-shadow deserts.

Overall, this natural phenomenon involves a sequential cycle of seven distinct stages, beginning with moist sea breezes approaching the coast and concluding with arid winds creating desert conditions inland.

Initially, winds from the ocean approach the coastline and are forced upwards towards the mountain range. As the moist air ascends the windward slope, it cools, leading to cloud formation. These clouds continue to rise until they reach the mountain summit, where heavy precipitation occurs in the form of rain.

After releasing its moisture, the now dry air descends over the mountain peak and crosses to the leeward side. These dry winds then travel across the land, reaching inland areas thousands of kilometres away from the sea. Consequently, the lack of rainfall in these regions results in the formation of rain-shadow deserts.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.0

The response provides a clear overview of the process, identifying the main stages from moist air movement to the formation of the rain-shadow. However, the response is 140 words long, failing to meet the 150-word minimum requirement. This under-length significantly impacts the task achievement score, as the description lacks the depth and detail required to fully develop the explanation of the process. While the main features are identified, the brevity prevents a more comprehensive analysis of the meteorological mechanics involved, such as the specific temperature changes or the contrast between the windward and leeward sides.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.0

The response is logically organized, with a clear introduction followed by a sequential description of the process. The use of cohesive devices such as 'Initially', 'As', 'After', and 'Consequently' helps to guide the reader through the stages of the cycle. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate the overview from the detailed process. The flow of information is smooth and easy to follow, demonstrating a good grasp of how to connect ideas in a process description.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

The vocabulary is accurate and appropriate for the topic, using terms like 'natural phenomenon', 'moist sea breezes', 'windward slope', 'precipitation', and 'leeward side'. This demonstrates a sufficient range to describe the process with precision. While the vocabulary is effective, it does not consistently reach the level of 'less common' or 'sophisticated' items that would justify a higher band. However, there are no errors in word choice or collocation that impede communication.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.0

The writing displays a good command of grammatical structures. The student uses a mix of simple and complex sentences effectively, such as 'As the moist air ascends the windward slope, it cools, leading to cloud formation.' The punctuation is accurate, and the sentence construction is generally error-free. The control over complex structures is consistent, and the grammar does not interfere with the clarity of the explanation. The response is grammatically sound throughout.

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

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