Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

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

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 on the leeward side of a mountain range.

Overall, the process involves seven main stages, beginning with winds carrying moist air from the sea towards the coast and ending with the development of a dry desert in inland areas. The windward side receives substantial rainfall, whereas the leeward side remains dry because the air loses most of its moisture while crossing the mountains.

Initially, winds from the sea approach the coast and are forced upwards by the mountains. As the moist air rises along the windward slope, it cools, causing clouds to form. When the air reaches higher altitudes, precipitation occurs, with rain falling on the windward side of the mountain range.

After losing much of its moisture, the air passes over the mountain peak and descends along the leeward slope. At this stage, the air is considerably drier and continues moving towards inland areas. Finally, these dry winds reach the land beyond the mountains, where the lack of rainfall creates a vast rain-shadow desert. Thus, the mountains effectively block moisture from reaching the inland region.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 8.0

The response fully addresses the task requirements by clearly summarizing the process of rain-shadow desert formation. You have successfully identified the main features, such as the windward and leeward sides of the mountain, and provided a logical sequence of events. The overview is well-crafted, highlighting the contrast between the moist windward side and the dry leeward side, which effectively sets the stage for the detailed description. All parts of the diagram are covered, and the comparison between the two sides of the mountain is made clear throughout the text. The information is accurate and well-developed, meeting the criteria for a high band score.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The response is logically organized, with a clear progression from the initial stage of moist air movement to the final formation of the desert. Paragraphing is used effectively to separate the introduction, the overview, and the detailed process steps. Cohesive devices such as 'Initially', 'After', and 'Finally' are used naturally to guide the reader through the stages. The referencing is clear, and the flow of ideas is smooth, ensuring that the relationship between the different parts of the process is easy to follow. There is no evidence of mechanical or repetitive use of linking words.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.0

You demonstrate a good range of vocabulary appropriate for a process description. Terms such as 'leeward', 'windward', 'precipitation', and 'moisture' are used accurately and in the correct context. The language is precise and natural, contributing to a clear and professional tone. While the vocabulary is sufficient and accurate, incorporating a few more sophisticated collocations or nuanced descriptive terms could elevate the response further. However, the current range is more than adequate for the task, and there are no errors in word choice or spelling that impede communication.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.0

The response displays a wide range of grammatical structures, including complex sentences that are handled with high accuracy. For example, the use of participial phrases like 'beginning with winds carrying...' and 'causing clouds to form' shows good control over sentence structure. The majority of sentences are error-free, and the punctuation is used correctly to manage the flow of information. There are no significant grammatical slips, and the control over tense and aspect is consistent throughout the description of the process. The writing is fluent and demonstrates a high level of grammatical competence.

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