Band 7.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.0 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-09-01

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 7.0)

The diagram illustrates the process of the formation of a rain-shadow desert.

Rain-shadow deserts are formed in coastal areas where a mountain range lies between the coast and inland regions. Initially, moist air from the sea moves towards the mountain range. As the air reaches the mountain, it is forced upwards along the windward slope. The moist air rises up the windward slope, it cools and condenses, leading to precipitation. Consequently, much of the moisture is lost in the form of rain or snow.

The now-dry air then continues to move over the mountain range towards the leeward side. As it descends towards the inland areas, it becomes warmer and drier, resulting in very little precipitation in this region. Consequently, a rain-shadow desert is formed.

Overall, the process occurs when moist air loses most of its moisture on the windward side of a mountain, leaving the leeward side with very dry conditions.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.0

The response effectively summarizes the process of rain-shadow desert formation. You have identified the key stages: the movement of moist air, the cooling and condensation on the windward slope, and the subsequent descent of dry air on the leeward side. The overview is clear and captures the essence of the diagram. All parts of the task are addressed, and the information is presented in a logical, accurate manner. To reach a higher band, you could incorporate more specific terminology related to the diagram, such as mentioning the 'prevailing winds' or 'mountain barrier' if they were implied, to show a deeper engagement with the visual data.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The response is well-organized with a clear progression of ideas. You have used paragraphing effectively to separate the initial process from the final outcome. Cohesive devices such as 'Initially', 'As', 'Consequently', and 'The now-dry air' are used appropriately to guide the reader through the sequence of events. The flow is natural and logical throughout the text. There is no evidence of mechanical or repetitive usage, and the referencing is clear. The structure is sound and supports the overall clarity of the explanation.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.0

You have used a sufficient range of vocabulary to describe the process accurately. Terms like 'precipitation', 'condenses', 'windward slope', and 'leeward side' are precise and contextually appropriate. The language is natural and demonstrates a good level of control. While the vocabulary is accurate, it is functional rather than sophisticated. To achieve a higher score, you could integrate more varied academic collocations or nuanced descriptive verbs to elevate the register of the report, though the current range is perfectly adequate for the task requirements.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.0

The writing displays a good mix of simple and complex sentence structures. For example, the use of subordinate clauses starting with 'As' and 'Consequently' demonstrates a good command of sentence variety. The grammar is generally accurate, with no significant errors that impede communication. Punctuation is handled correctly, and the subject-verb agreement is consistent. The sentence 'The moist air rises up the windward slope, it cools and condenses' is a comma splice; it would be better to use a semicolon or a conjunction. Overall, the control of grammar is strong.

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