Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 17 · 2026-09-02
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 7.5)
The graph illustrates the number of new shops opened and the number of shops closed in one country over a seven-year period from 2011 to 2018.
Overall, both the number of shops opened and closed fluctuated during this time. While there were significant variations year on year, both categories ended the period lower than they began.
Regarding new shops, the figure started at approximately 8,500 in 2011 but fell sharply to around 3,900 in 2012. From this low point, there was a steady increase until 2014, reaching nearly 6,100. However, the trend reversed in 2015, dropping to 4,000. The number remained relatively stable until 2017, followed by a slight rise to 4,100, before falling again to its lowest point of roughly 3,000 in 2018.
In contrast, the number of shop closures began at about 6,300 in 2011. After a decrease in 2012, it peaked at just over 7,000 in 2013. This was followed by a dramatic plunge to a low of approximately 500 in 2015. Subsequently, the figure surged back up to around 5,100 in 2016 and remained stable at this level through to 2018.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 7.5 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 7.5 |
| Lexical Resource | 7.0 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 7.5 |
| Overall | 7.5 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5
The response effectively covers all parts of the task. You have identified the main trends and provided relevant data points to support your descriptions. The overview clearly highlights the general downward trend for both categories, which is a key feature of the graph. You have successfully made comparisons between the two categories, such as noting the contrasting movements in 2013 and 2015. The information is well-selected and accurately reported, meeting the requirements for a Band 7.5 or 8.0. To reach the highest band, ensure that all minor fluctuations are integrated into a more cohesive narrative rather than just listing data points.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5
The response is logically organized with a clear introduction, an overview, and two body paragraphs focusing on the two categories. The progression of ideas is smooth, and you have used a variety of cohesive devices such as 'In contrast', 'Subsequently', and 'However' to link your points effectively. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate the two main trends. The flow of information is natural, and the referencing is clear throughout the text. The structure is well-managed, making the report easy to follow and professional in tone.
Lexical Resource — Band 7.0
You have used a sufficient range of vocabulary to convey the information precisely. Phrases like 'fell sharply', 'dramatic plunge', and 'surged back up' demonstrate a good command of descriptive language suitable for reporting data. There is an awareness of style, and the word choices are generally accurate and appropriate for an academic task. While the vocabulary is effective, incorporating a few more sophisticated collocations or nuanced descriptors could elevate the response further. Overall, the lexical range is more than adequate for the task.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5
The response displays a good variety of sentence structures, including complex sentences that are generally error-free. Your control over grammar and punctuation is strong, and there are no significant errors that impede communication. You have successfully used a mix of simple and complex forms to describe the trends. The majority of your sentences are accurate, and the few minor slips do not detract from the clarity of the report. This demonstrates a high level of grammatical control consistent with a Band 8.0.
See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.
Browse more IELTS Writing model answers or get your own writing scored by the same AI examiner.