Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-09-14

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 illustrates how a rain-shadow desert is formed through the movement of moist and dry air around a mountain range.

Overall, the process consists of seven main stages, beginning with winds approaching the coast and ending with dry winds reaching the inland area. The windward side receives rainfall, whereas the leeward side remains dry, resulting in the formation of a rain-shadow desert.

Initially, winds carrying moist air approach the coast from the sea and are forced upwards when they reach the mountains. As the air rises, it cools, causing clouds to form on the windward side. Rain then falls from these clouds, removing most of the moisture from the air.

After crossing the mountain, the remaining dry air continues towards the leeward side. As it moves down the slope, it becomes increasingly dry. Finally, dry winds reach the inland area, where very little rainfall occurs, creating a rain-shadow desert.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The response successfully covers all parts of the task by outlining the main features of the rain-shadow desert formation diagram. The introduction correctly identifies the core process, and the overview highlights the key geographical contrast between the windward and leeward sides, as well as the transition from moist to dry conditions. The body paragraphs effectively trace the sequence from winds approaching the coast to dry winds reaching the inland area. The information is accurately reported with no significant omissions or distortions of the visual data, fulfilling the requirements for a Band 8.0.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

Information and ideas are logically sequenced and progress naturally from the initial stage to the final outcome. The response makes effective use of cohesive devices to guide the reader through the process, such as 'Initially,' 'After crossing the mountain,' and 'Finally.' Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate the introduction, overview, and sequential steps of the diagram. Reference links between sentences are clear and seamless, maintaining a smooth and coherent overall structure that meets the standard for Band 8.0.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

The student demonstrates an adequate and appropriate range of vocabulary tailored to an academic process description, utilising terms like 'moist and dry air,' 'windward side,' 'leeward side,' and 'precipitation' or 'rainfall.' Word choices are generally precise, though the range is somewhat standard rather than featuring a wide array of sophisticated uncommon lexical items. Spelling and word formation are accurate throughout, supporting smooth communication and placing this response firmly within the Band 7.0 descriptor.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The writing exhibits a good variety of complex sentence structures, such as participial phrases ('beginning with winds... and ending with...') and subordinate clauses ('As the air rises, it cools...'). The majority of sentences are error-free, demonstrating a strong command of punctuation, tense consistency, and grammatical agreements. The minor flaws are negligible, allowing for a comfortable fit within the Band 8.0 criteria for grammatical control.

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

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