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 represents how a rain-shadow desert is formed. The sea, mountains and wind play a major role in its formation. The process starts from the sea and eventually ends in the formation of a desert.

Initially, winds approach the coast and push moist air upwards. As the air rises, it cools and reaches the windward side of the mountain, where water vapour condenses and forms clouds. At the top of the mountain, rainfall occurs because of the high altitude and low temperature. After this, the dry air continues over the mountain and moves towards the leeward side. As it descends, the air becomes warmer and drier. Finally, the dry winds reach the inland areas, resulting in the formation of a rain-shadow desert. These areas receive very little rainfall and therefore remain dry. Overall, the process shows how mountains and changing air conditions contribute to the formation of a rain-shadow desert.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.5

The response successfully identifies the main features of the rain-shadow desert formation process. You have clearly outlined the sequence of events from the moist air approaching the coast to the final arid conditions on the leeward side. The overview provided in the final sentence effectively synthesizes the process. To reach a higher band, ensure that you explicitly mention the key stages as a summary of the visual data, perhaps by highlighting the contrast between the windward and leeward sides more sharply. The information is accurate and covers all parts of the diagram well, providing a clear and logical summary of the scientific process depicted.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The response is well-organized with a clear progression of ideas. You have used logical sequencing words such as 'Initially', 'After this', and 'Finally' to guide the reader through the stages of the process. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate the introduction from the detailed description. The flow of information is smooth, and cohesive devices are used effectively without being repetitive. The relationship between the sentences is clear, and the overall structure supports the reader's understanding of the process without any confusion or mechanical errors in referencing.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

You have used a sufficient range of vocabulary to describe the process, including terms like 'condenses', 'altitude', 'leeward', and 'windward'. These are precise and appropriate for the context of a geographical process. While the vocabulary is accurate and fits the task well, it remains somewhat functional. To achieve a higher band, you could incorporate more sophisticated collocations or varied descriptive language to enhance the academic tone. However, the current range is more than adequate for the task, and there are no errors in word choice that impede communication.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.0

The response demonstrates a good command of grammatical structures. You have used a mix of simple and complex sentences effectively, such as 'As the air rises, it cools and reaches the windward side of the mountain'. The punctuation is accurate, and the sentence construction is generally error-free. The control over verb tenses is consistent, which is crucial for describing a process. While the range of structures is solid, incorporating a wider variety of passive voice constructions or more complex subordinate clauses could further demonstrate your grammatical flexibility.

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

Browse more IELTS Writing model answers or get your own writing scored by the same AI examiner.