Band 9.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 9.0 · Cambridge IELTS 11 · 2026-07-28

IELTS Writing Task 1 question

The table below shows the numbers of visitors to Ashdown Museum during the year before and the year after it was refurbished. The charts show the result of surveys asking visitors how satisfied they were with their visit, during the same two periods.

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

Student answer (Band 9.0)

The table and pie charts compare visitor numbers and satisfaction levels at Ashdown Museum before and after it underwent refurbishment.

Overall, both the total number of visitors and the proportion of positive satisfaction ratings rose considerably following the renovation, while negative ratings and non-responses fell sharply.

In terms of visitor numbers, the museum attracted 74,000 people in the year before refurbishment, rising to 92,000 in the year after, an increase of 18,000 visitors.

Regarding satisfaction levels, there was a dramatic shift in visitor opinion. Before refurbishment, dissatisfaction dominated the results: 40% of visitors reported being very dissatisfied and a further 30% were dissatisfied, together accounting for 70% of responses. Only a small minority expressed satisfaction, with just 15% satisfied and 5% very satisfied, while the remaining 10% did not respond.

After refurbishment, this pattern was reversed entirely. The combined proportion of satisfied and very satisfied visitors rose to 75% (40% and 35% respectively), while those expressing dissatisfaction fell to just 20% in total (15% dissatisfied, 5% very dissatisfied). The rate of non-response also declined, from 10% to 5%.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 9.0

The response is excellent. You have successfully identified and reported the main features of both the table and the pie charts. The overview clearly highlights the significant increase in visitor numbers and the dramatic improvement in satisfaction levels. You have made effective comparisons between the two periods, such as noting the shift from 70% dissatisfaction to 75% satisfaction. The data is accurately selected and presented, and the response fully addresses all parts of the prompt. There is a clear logical progression from the general trends to the specific data points, demonstrating a strong grasp of the task requirements.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 9.0

The response is logically organized, with a clear introduction, a concise overview, and two body paragraphs that focus on visitor numbers and satisfaction levels respectively. The use of cohesive devices is natural and effective, such as 'In terms of', 'Regarding', and 'while'. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate different aspects of the data. The flow of information is smooth, and each sentence contributes to the overall clarity of the report. There is no evidence of mechanical or repetitive use of linking words, and the progression of ideas is easy to follow throughout the text.

Lexical Resource — Band 9.0

You have used a wide range of vocabulary with precision and natural control. Phrases such as 'underwent refurbishment', 'considerably', 'dramatic shift', and 'pattern was reversed entirely' demonstrate a sophisticated command of language. The vocabulary is well-suited to the task of describing statistical data. There are no errors in word choice or collocation, and the language used is both accurate and varied. The use of 'respectively' to clarify the breakdown of satisfaction levels is a particularly strong example of precise lexical control.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 9.0

The response displays a wide range of grammatical structures with high accuracy. You have successfully used complex sentences, such as 'Before refurbishment, dissatisfaction dominated the results: 40% of visitors reported being very dissatisfied and a further 30% were dissatisfied, together accounting for 70% of responses.' Punctuation is used correctly to manage complex information. The majority of sentences are error-free, and the control over tense and subject-verb agreement is consistent throughout. The writing is fluent, and there are no grammatical slips that impede communication or distract the reader.

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