Band 8.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 8.0 · Cambridge IELTS 11 · 2026-07-29

IELTS Writing Task 1 question

The graph below shows average carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions per person in the United Kingdom, Sweden, Italy and Portugal between 1967 and 2007.

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

Student answer (Band 8.0)

The line graph illustrates average carbon dioxide emissions per person in the United Kingdom, Sweden, Italy and Portugal from 1967 to 2007.

Overall, there has been a significant surge in carbon emissions from Italy and Portugal, while emissions from the UK consistently fell during these 5 decades. Sweden also reduced its carbon emission experiencing varied fluctuations in the beginning.

In 1967, the UK emitted the highest amount average carbon dioxide per person (nearly 11 metric tonnes), followed by Sweden and Italy with over 8 and over 4 metric tonnes of emissions, respectively. Portugal reported lowest amount of carbon dioxide emissions per person with below 2 metric tonnes.

Over the next five decades, there were major changes in emissions from each country. The UK consistently reduced its emissions to below 7 metric tonnes per person, while Sweden also saw a steep decline in emissions to below 6 metric tonnes after a sudden surge initially. Italy and Portugal experienced a similar rise in carbon dioxide emissions and peaking at nearly 8 metric tonnes and 6 metric tonnes by 2007.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 8.0

The response effectively addresses all parts of the task. You have provided a clear overview of the trends and selected key data points to support your summary. The comparison between the countries is well-handled, particularly the contrast between the UK/Sweden and Italy/Portugal. To reach a higher band, ensure that all data points are precise; for instance, stating 'over 8' or 'below 2' is acceptable, but referencing the specific peak years or more exact figures where the graph is clear would strengthen the analysis. Overall, the main features are well-highlighted.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.0

The essay is logically organized with a clear introduction, an overview paragraph, and two body paragraphs focusing on specific trends. The progression of ideas is smooth, and you have used cohesive devices such as 'while', 'followed by', and 'over the next five decades' effectively to link information. The paragraphing is appropriate, and the information is presented in a way that is easy to follow. To improve, ensure that the transition between the overview and the body paragraphs is slightly more seamless to enhance the flow.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.5

You have used a sufficient range of vocabulary to convey the information accurately, including terms like 'significant surge', 'steep decline', and 'fluctuations'. The use of 'metric tonnes' is appropriate for the context. There are minor issues with collocation and word choice, such as 'emitted the highest amount average carbon dioxide' (missing 'of') and 'reported lowest amount' (missing 'the'). These errors do not impede communication, but more precise phrasing would elevate the score.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

You demonstrate a good mix of simple and complex sentence structures. The use of participial phrases like 'experiencing varied fluctuations' and comparative structures is effective. There are occasional grammatical slips, such as missing articles ('the lowest amount') and minor prepositional errors. However, the majority of your sentences are error-free, and the punctuation is generally accurate. The control of grammar is consistent, and the minor errors do not cause any difficulty for the reader.

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