Band 7.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.0 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-09-16

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 illustration shows how a rain-shadow desert is formed.

Overall, it is a natural linear process consisting of seven stages, showing a clear contrast between the moist windward side and the dry leeward side. It begins with winds approaching the coast, leading to the formation of clouds, and ends with dry conditions on the leeward side.

The process starts with the winds approaching the coast above the sea. Furthermore, the winds are pushed upwards through the mountains. As a result, the moist air carried by the winds rises and cools down, leading to the formation of clouds. In the next stage, precipitation occurs on the windward side, resulting in cool and moist conditions.

On the other hand, the leeward side receives dry air flowing over the mountains, and the dry winds reach the inland areas, ultimately resulting in the formation of a rain-shadow desert in relatively dry conditions thousands of kilometres away from the coast.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The student successfully covers all parts of the task by providing a clear summary of the seven stages involved in the formation of a rain-shadow desert. The response begins with an appropriate overall summary identifying the main features and contrasts between the windward and leeward sides. Key stages—such as winds approaching the coast, being pushed upwards, air cooling, cloud formation, precipitation, and the dry air descending onto inland areas—are accurately reported and well-grounded in the visual data. The progression is logical and addresses all essential components of the diagram without major omissions.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The essay demonstrates a clear logical organization and progression throughout. Information is coherently sequenced into an introduction, an overview paragraph, and two body paragraphs that logically divide the process between the windward and leeward sides. Cohesive devices such as 'Overall', 'Furthermore', 'As a result', and 'On the other hand' are used effectively to guide the reader through the stages of the diagram. Paragraphing is used appropriately, and referencing throughout the text remains clear and easy to follow.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

The student employs a sufficient and appropriate range of vocabulary suitable for describing a scientific or geographical process. Terms such as 'linear process', 'precipitation', 'leeward side', 'windward side', and 'inland areas' demonstrate a good control of task-specific lexis. There are occasional slight awkwardnesses in phrasing, such as 'pushed upwards through the mountains' instead of 'over the mountains', but these do not impede communication. Word choice is generally precise and reflects the visual data accurately.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.0

The response features a good mix of simple and complex sentence structures, including participial phrases ('leading to the formation of clouds') and adverbial clauses. The majority of sentences are error-free, and the control of grammar and punctuation is strong throughout. Minor slips occur, such as the slightly unnatural collocation in 'pushed upwards through the mountains', but these errors are rare and do not interfere with the overall clarity or flow of the writing.

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

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