Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · 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 7.5)

The diagram illustrates how a rain-shadow desert is formed as moist air moves from the sea towards inland areas across a mountain range.

Overall, the process involves seven main stages. Winds carrying moist air approach the coast and are forced upwards by the mountains. As the air rises, it cools and forms clouds, which produce rain on the windward side. After crossing the mountain, the air becomes dry and moves down the leeward side, eventually creating a rain-shadow desert inland.

Initially, winds from the sea approach the coast and are pushed upwards by the mountains. As the moist air rises, it becomes cooler, leading to the formation of clouds. Rain then falls on the windward side of the mountain, causing the air to lose much of its moisture.

After reaching the top and passing over the mountain, the air continues towards the leeward side. At this stage, it is dry and gradually moves downwards. Finally, the dry winds continue for thousands of kilometres inland, where the lack of rainfall results in the formation of a rain-shadow desert.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The student successfully covers all key features of the diagram detailing the formation of rain-shadow deserts. The response includes an accurate overview and correctly sequences the stages from the winds approaching the coast, rising over the mountains, producing precipitation on the windward side, and finally resulting in dry conditions on the leeward side and inland. The data is accurately reported with no significant omissions or misinterpretations of the visual prompt, meeting the requirements of Band 8.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.0

The text is logically organised with a clear progression from introduction to overview, body paragraphs detailing the stages, and a concluding description. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate different parts of the process. Cohesive devices such as 'Initially', 'After reaching', and 'Finally' are deployed naturally and effectively to guide the reader through the sequence without mechanical over-use.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.0

The vocabulary used is precise and well-suited to an academic process description. Terms like 'precipitation', 'windward side', 'leeward side', and 'rain-shadow desert' demonstrate appropriate domain-specific lexical resource. Collocations and word choices are natural, with only rare minor instances where simpler phrasing could be elevated. The lexical range easily supports clear communication.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The student exhibits a wide range of complex sentence structures with a high degree of accuracy. Sentences such as 'As the air rises, it cools and forms clouds, which produce rain on the windward side' demonstrate strong control over subordinate clauses and passive/active voice variation. The majority of sentences are completely error-free, reflecting a strong command of grammar and punctuation suitable for an 8.0 band level.

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

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