Band 7.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.0 · Cambridge IELTS 17 · 2026-08-21

IELTS Writing Task 1 question

The graph below shows the number of shops that closed and the number of new shops that opened in one country between 2011 and 2018.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

Number of shop closures and openings 2011– 2018

Student answer (Band 7.0)

The line graph illustrates the numbers of shop closures and new shop openings in a particular country from 2011 to 2018.

Overall, the number of new shop openings followed a clear downward trend throughout the period, whereas shop closures fluctuated considerably. Although closures experienced a dramatic collapse in 2015, they recovered rapidly in the following years and ultimately exceeded the number of new openings by the end of the period.

In 2011, shop closures stood at around 8,500, approximately 2,000 higher than openings. However, closures fell sharply to 4,000 in 2012, while openings remained higher at about 5,900. The figures then moved in different directions, with closures recovering to just over 6,000 by 2014, whereas openings peaked at roughly 7,200 in 2013. The most significant difference occurred in 2015, when closures stood at about 4,000 compared with only 600 openings. Thereafter, openings rebounded to over 5,000, while closures gradually declined to around 3,000 by 2018.

Overall, openings exceeded closures in most years after 2011, with the widest gap occurring in 2015. By 2018, the pattern had reversed from the beginning, as approximately 5,200 shops opened compared with only 3,000 closures.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.5

You have provided a clear overview and successfully identified the main trends and key features of the graph. You have also made relevant comparisons between the two categories throughout the response. The data points are generally accurate, and you have highlighted significant points such as the peak in openings in 2013 and the notable gap in 2015. However, there is a slight contradiction in your summary: you state that openings followed a 'clear downward trend' and later that they 'rebounded', and your final paragraph contradicts the data by claiming openings exceeded closures in most years, whereas the graph shows closures were higher in several years. Accuracy in reporting data is essential for a higher band.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The response is logically organized with a clear introduction, overview, and body paragraphs. You use a variety of cohesive devices effectively, such as 'whereas', 'although', 'thereafter', and 'in contrast'. The progression of ideas is smooth, and the paragraphing is appropriate for an Academic Task 1 response. Each paragraph has a clear focus, and the transition between the general trends and the specific data points is handled well. The use of referencing is clear, and the overall structure helps the reader follow the information without difficulty.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.0

You demonstrate a good range of vocabulary appropriate for describing trends, such as 'fluctuated considerably', 'dramatic collapse', 'rebounded', and 'gradually declined'. This allows for precise reporting of the data. There is a good level of flexibility in your word choice, and you avoid repetitive phrasing. While the vocabulary is sufficient and accurate, incorporating a few more sophisticated collocations or less common lexical items related to data analysis could elevate the score further. Overall, the language is natural and contributes to a professional tone.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

You use a good mix of simple and complex sentence structures, such as the use of subordinate clauses starting with 'although' and 'while'. The grammar is generally accurate, and there are no significant errors that impede communication. Punctuation is used correctly to separate clauses and list information. The majority of your sentences are error-free, and you show good control over tense usage when describing past events. To reach the highest band, ensure that all complex structures are used with complete precision, but your current control is very strong.

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

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