Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-09-06

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 depicts the process by which rain-shadow deserts are formed.

Overall, the formation consists of seven main stages occurring across a geographical area spanning thousands of kilometers. The process begins with moist winds blowing from the sea and concludes with dry air descending inland to create a desert on the leeward side of a mountain.

Looking at the initial stages on the windward side of the mountain, the process commences when winds blowing from the sea approach the coast. As this air travels inland, it hits the mountain range and is forced to travel upwards. During this steep ascent, the moist air rises and significantly cools. Once the air cools sufficiently, condensation occurs, which leads directly to the formation of clouds near the mountain peak.

Turning to the subsequent stages, the accumulated moisture in the clouds is released as heavy rain, which falls almost entirely on the upper windward side of the mountain. Having lost its moisture, the air that continues over the peak and down the leeward side is extremely dry. Finally, these dry winds sweep downward and reach the far inland areas. Because the air contains virtually no moisture at this stage, the landscape is deprived of rain, resulting in the creation of a barren rain-shadow desert.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The response effectively addresses all parts of the task. You have clearly identified the main features of the rain-shadow desert formation process, moving logically from the windward side to the leeward side. The overview is concise and accurately captures the essence of the process. You have successfully highlighted the key stages, such as the ascent of moist air, condensation, precipitation, and the subsequent descent of dry air. The information is well-selected and presented in a clear, analytical manner, meeting the requirements for a high-band response.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The response is well-structured with a clear logical progression. You have used paragraphing effectively to separate the initial stages from the subsequent ones. Cohesive devices such as 'Looking at the initial stages', 'Turning to the subsequent stages', and 'Having lost its moisture' are used naturally to guide the reader through the process. The flow of information is smooth, and the relationship between the different stages of the diagram is clearly articulated, ensuring that the reader can easily follow the sequence of events.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.0

You have demonstrated a good range of vocabulary appropriate for a scientific description. Terms such as 'leeward side', 'windward side', 'condensation', and 'barren' are used accurately and in the correct context. The language is precise and avoids unnecessary repetition. While the vocabulary is sufficient and accurate, incorporating a few more sophisticated or technical collocations related to meteorology could elevate the response further, but the current range is already quite strong and effectively conveys the intended meaning.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.0

The grammar is highly accurate throughout the response. You have employed a variety of complex sentence structures, such as 'As this air travels inland, it hits the mountain range and is forced to travel upwards' and 'Because the air contains virtually no moisture at this stage, the landscape is deprived of rain'. Punctuation is used correctly to support the clarity of your sentences. There are no noticeable grammatical errors, and the control over tense and aspect is consistent with the requirements of describing a continuous natural process.

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