Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-09-29

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 the process by which a rain-shadow desert is formed on the leeward side of a mountain range.

Overall, the process consists of seven main stages, beginning with moist winds approaching the coast and ending with dry winds reaching inland areas. The key feature is that rainfall occurs on the windward side of the mountains, while the opposite side receives very little precipitation and consequently becomes a rain-shadow desert.

Initially, winds from the sea approach the coast and are forced upwards as they encounter the mountains. As the moist air rises along the windward side, it gradually cools. This cooling causes clouds to form, and eventually the moisture is released as rainfall over the mountain's windward slopes.

After most of its moisture has been lost through precipitation, the air passes over the mountain and continues towards the leeward side. At this stage, the air is considerably drier and descends down the opposite slope. As it moves further inland, the dry air produces dry winds, resulting in very little rainfall. Consequently, the inland region on the leeward side receives insufficient precipitation and develops into a rain-shadow desert.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response: Band 7.5

The student has fully and accurately addressed all parts of the task. The overview successfully captures the main features of the seven-stage process, noting the contrast between the wet windward side and the dry leeward rain-shadow desert. Details are well-selected and closely follow the visual data without missing key stages. The progression from moist winds approaching the coast to dry winds reaching inland areas is presented logically and clearly, demonstrating a complete understanding of the diagram.

Coherence and Cohesion: Band 7.5

Ideas are logically sequenced and progress smoothly from the introduction of the process through the individual stages. Paragraphing is used appropriately, with each paragraph focusing on a distinct phase of the diagram (introduction, overview, initial stages, and final stages). Cohesive devices such as 'Initially', 'After most of its moisture has been lost', and 'Consequently' are managed well and connect the information naturally without being overly mechanical.

Lexical Resource: Band 7.5

The vocabulary used is precise and appropriate for an academic report describing a natural process. The student demonstrates good control of subject-specific terminology, such as 'leeward side', 'windward side', 'precipitation', and 'rain-shadow desert'. Less common lexical items are used naturally and accurately (e.g., 'considerably drier', 'insufficient precipitation'), showing flexibility and an awareness of appropriate academic style.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 7.5

The response features a wide range of complex structures used accurately, such as participle clauses ('beginning with moist winds...', 'having been lost...') and subordinate time/condition clauses. The majority of sentences are completely error-free, and control of punctuation and tense consistency is strong throughout. The grammar facilitates clear and fluent communication with no noticeable errors.

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

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