Band 8.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 8.5 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-08-10

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 8.5)

The diagram illustrates the sequential geological and meteorological process behind the creation of a rain-shadow desert.

Overall, the process is defined by a stark contrast between two sides of a mountain range. The windward side facing the sea experiences heavy moisture and precipitation, while the landward or leeward side is entirely deprived of rain, resulting in an arid desert environment extending thousands of kilometers inland.

Initially, maritime winds approach the coast from over the sea. Upon hitting the coastline, these winds are forced upward by the steep incline of the mountain's windward slope. As this moist air ascends to higher altitudes, it cools rapidly, causing water vapor to condense and form clouds. This concentration of moisture culminates in heavy rainfall exclusively on this oceanic side of the mountain.

Once the air mass passes over the mountain peak, it transforms into dry air. As it descends down the leeward side, it accelerates as hot, dry winds. By the time these winds reach the flat inland areas, all moisture has been depleted, creating the prolonged arid conditions necessary for a rain-shadow desert to develop.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 8.0

The response is excellent. You have successfully identified and summarized the main stages of the rain-shadow desert formation process. The overview clearly highlights the contrast between the windward and leeward sides, which is a key feature of the diagram. You have effectively selected the most important information, such as the cooling of air, condensation, and the subsequent dry conditions on the leeward side. The information is well-developed and logically presented, fully satisfying the requirements of the task.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.5

The response is well-organized with a clear logical progression. You have used paragraphing effectively to separate the introduction, the overview, and the detailed process steps. Cohesive devices such as 'Initially', 'Upon hitting', 'Once', and 'By the time' are used naturally to guide the reader through the chronological sequence of events. The flow of ideas is smooth, and each sentence contributes to the overall clarity of the explanation.

Lexical Resource — Band 8.0

You demonstrate a wide and sophisticated range of vocabulary. Terms such as 'sequential geological and meteorological process', 'maritime winds', 'condense', and 'depleted' are used with precision and accuracy. The language is natural and appropriate for an academic report. There are no noticeable errors in word choice or collocation, and the vocabulary effectively conveys the technical nature of the process described in the diagram.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.5

The writing displays a high level of grammatical control. You have used a variety of complex sentence structures, such as participial phrases ('As this moist air ascends...', 'By the time these winds reach...') and relative clauses, with full accuracy. Punctuation is used correctly throughout, and there are no grammatical errors that impede communication. The control over tense and aspect is consistent and appropriate for describing a scientific process.

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

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