Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-10-02

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 when moist air moves from the sea towards a mountain range.

Overall, the process begins when winds carrying moisture approach the coast and are forced to rise over the mountains. As the air rises, it cools and produces rainfall on the windward side. After crossing the mountain, the air becomes dry, which eventually creates desert conditions on the inland side.

At the first stage, winds move from the sea towards the coast. When these winds reach the mountains, they are pushed upwards along the windward side. As the moist air rises, it gradually cools and clouds begin to form. This is followed by rainfall over the higher parts of the mountain.

After most of the moisture has fallen as rain, the remaining air continues across the mountain towards the leeward side. By this stage, the air is much drier. Finally, these dry winds travel further inland, where very little rainfall occurs. As a result, the land in this area becomes extremely dry and develops into a rain- shadow desert.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response: Band 7.5

The response successfully addresses all parts of the task by providing a clear and comprehensive summary of the diagram illustrating the formation of a rain-shadow desert. An effective overview is included right at the beginning, capturing the main stages of the process from the sea to the inland desert. The body paragraphs accurately report the sequence of events, tracking moisture from the sea, its ascent and cooling over the windward side of the mountains, cloud formation, precipitation, and finally the descent of dry air onto the leeward side and inland area. All key features depicted in the visual data are covered well and supported with appropriate details, such as the transition from moist air to dry winds and the ultimate creation of desert conditions. To reach the highest bands, the student could incorporate even more precise geographical terminology or subtle relationships shown in the diagram.

Coherence and Cohesion: Band 7.5

The essay displays a clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Information is arranged sequentially, mirroring the step-by-step nature of the process diagram. Paragraphing is used effectively and appropriately, with a clear introduction containing the overview, followed by logical body paragraphs that detail the successive stages. Cohesive devices are handled well, using transitional phrases such as 'Overall', 'At the first stage', 'After crossing the mountain', and 'Finally' to guide the reader smoothly through the explanation. Referencing is clear, and ideas flow logically from one sentence to the next without abrupt jumps. Minor improvements in paragraph division or more sophisticated transitions could elevate cohesion further, but the current structure easily meets the requirements for a clear logical progression.

Lexical Resource: Band 7.0

The student demonstrates a sufficient range of vocabulary with some flexibility and precision, successfully using less common items related to geography and weather processes, such as 'moisture', 'windward side', 'leeward side', and 'precipitation'. Word choices are generally appropriate and accurately describe the visual data, with terms like 'gradually cools', 'desert conditions', and 'dry winds' used naturally in context. Spelling and word formation are accurate throughout the text. While the vocabulary is adequate and allows for precise communication, it occasionally relies on standard descriptive terms rather than more sophisticated or uncommon lexical items. Introducing a wider variety of precise academic collocations would help push this criterion towards the highest level.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 7.5

The response features a good variety of complex structures alongside simple sentence forms, demonstrating strong control over grammar and punctuation. Frequent error-free sentences are present, and complex clauses—such as 'when moist air moves from the sea towards a mountain range' and 'As the moist air rises, it gradually cools and clouds begin to form'—are handled accurately. Verb tenses are used consistently and correctly to describe a continuous natural process. Prepositions and articles are managed well within grammatical patterns (e.g., 'along the windward side', 'across the mountain towards the leeward side'). Although a few minor slips persist, they do not impede communication, and punctuation is correctly employed throughout the text.

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