Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.5 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-09-05

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 how a rain shadow desert is formed as moist air travels from the ocean across a mountain range.

Overall, the process consists of several stages, beginning with moist air rising towards the mountain and ending with the formation of a dry desert area on the leeward side. the windward side receives considerably more rainfall, whereas the opposite side remains dry.

Initially, moist air moves inland from the ocean towards the mountain. as the air rises up the windward slope, it becomes cooler and forms clouds. Eventually, the moisture condenses and falls as precipitation, resulting in substantial rainfall on the side of the mountain.

After losing much of its moisture, the air passes over the mountain peak and begins to descend on the leeward side, as it moves downward, the air becomes warmer and considerably drier, consequently, very little rain falls in this region, creating a dry area known as a rain shadow desert.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.0

The response effectively covers all stages of the rain-shadow desert formation process. You have successfully identified the key features, such as the movement of moist air, the cooling and condensation process on the windward side, and the subsequent warming and drying effect on the leeward side. The overview is clear and provides a good summary of the main trend. To reach a higher band, ensure that you explicitly mention the specific labels or components provided in the diagram (e.g., 'windward slope', 'leeward side') to demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the visual data. Overall, the response is well-focused and meets the requirements of the task.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5

The response is logically organized, with a clear progression from the initial stage to the final outcome. Paragraphing is used effectively to separate the overview from the detailed process. You use cohesive devices such as 'Initially', 'Eventually', and 'consequently' to link ideas. However, there are some minor issues with punctuation and sentence structure, such as comma splices (e.g., 'as it moves downward, the air becomes warmer and considerably drier, consequently, very little rain falls'). Improving the use of punctuation to separate independent clauses would enhance the flow and coherence of your writing.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

You demonstrate a sufficient range of vocabulary to describe the process accurately. Terms like 'condensation', 'precipitation', 'windward', and 'leeward' are used correctly and appropriately for this academic task. The vocabulary is precise enough to convey the scientific nature of the diagram. To improve, try to incorporate more varied synonyms for common verbs like 'moves' or 'falls' to show greater lexical flexibility. For example, using 'ascends' or 'precipitates' would elevate the academic tone of the report further.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.0

You use a mix of simple and complex sentence structures, which is appropriate for this task. While the majority of your sentences are clear, there are some punctuation errors, specifically the use of comma splices where periods or semicolons are required (e.g., 'as the air rises... as it moves downward...'). Additionally, there are some capitalization errors at the start of sentences (e.g., 'the windward side', 'as the air rises'). Addressing these mechanical errors would significantly improve the accuracy of your writing, as your control over complex structures is generally good.

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

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