Band 7.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.0 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-09-11

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 formation of rain-shadowed deserts.

Overall, it depicts the process of formation and how rain-shadow deserts are transformed. It includes seven different stages, starting with the winds approaching the coast and ending with dry winds reaching the inland areas.

Initially, the process begins with the wind carrying moisture from the sea and then pushing it upwards. After that, the temperature decreases, clouds are formed and, subsequently, rainfall starts on the left side of the mountain. As the moist air continues to rise, it gradually loses its moisture through precipitation.

Secondly, after the fifth stage, when rainfall has stopped, there is a dramatic decline in the temperature due to the dry air moving over the mountains on the leeward side. Moreover, the arid air reaches its final stage in the inland areas and eventually results in the formation of a rain-shadow desert.

Finally, it is clear that the mountain plays a vital role in the development of a desert, as it determines whether the wind remains moist or becomes dry after passing over the mountain and moving towards the inland areas.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.5

The response provides a clear overview of the process and identifies the main stages of rain-shadow desert formation. You have successfully highlighted the key transition from moist air to dry air caused by the mountain barrier. However, the description of the stages is slightly generic; for instance, referring to 'the fifth stage' is less effective than describing the specific physical changes occurring at that point. To reach a higher band, ensure that all key features of the diagram are described with more precision, particularly the contrast between the windward and leeward sides of the mountain, rather than just listing the stages sequentially.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.0

The essay is logically organized with a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and a concluding summary. The use of cohesive devices such as 'Initially', 'After that', 'Secondly', and 'Finally' helps guide the reader through the process. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate the different phases of the cycle. While the flow is generally smooth, some transitions feel slightly mechanical. To improve, try to vary the cohesive devices used to link the stages of the process, ensuring that the relationship between the mountain's physical structure and the resulting climate change is more tightly integrated.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

You demonstrate a sufficient range of vocabulary to describe the process, using terms like 'moisture', 'precipitation', 'leeward side', and 'arid'. There is an attempt to use less common vocabulary, which is generally accurate. However, there are minor issues with word choice, such as 'transformed' in the introduction, which is not the most precise term for a natural formation process. The vocabulary is adequate for the task, but incorporating more precise scientific collocations would elevate the response to a higher band level.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.0

The response uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures effectively. Most sentences are error-free, and the grammar does not impede communication. There are some minor issues with phrasing, such as 'the arid air reaches its final stage in the inland areas', which could be more naturally expressed. Punctuation is generally accurate throughout the text. To achieve a higher score, try to incorporate a wider variety of complex grammatical structures, such as passive voice constructions to describe the process (e.g., 'moisture is extracted as the air ascends').

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