Band 7.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.0 · Cambridge IELTS 11 · 2026-08-23

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 7.0)

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

Overall , the Uk had the highest level of CO2 emissions for most of the period , although its figure declined gradually . In contrast Italy and Portugal experienced significant increases. Sweden was the only country that showed a clear rise followed by a substantial decline.

In 1967 , the UK produced about 10.7 metric tonnes of carbon dioxide per person , compared with approximately 8.7 tonnes in Sweden . Italy’s figure was much lower , at around 4.2 tonnes , while Portugal had the lowest level , at only 1.2 tonnes . By 1977 , emissions in Sweden has increased to just over 10 tonnes , whereas the figures for UK and Italy were about 10.6 and 6.3 tonnes respectively .

From 1977 onwards, Sweden emissions fell considerably, reaching around 5.5 tonnes in 2007 . Meanwhile UK emissions decreased steadily to about 8.8 tonnes . Italy continued to rise , reaching approximately 7.6 tonnes in 1997 and remaining at this level in 2007 . Portugal also increased steadily , reaching about 5.4 tonnes by the end of the period .

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.0

You have successfully identified the main trends and key features of the graph. The overview clearly contrasts the downward trend of the UK and Sweden with the upward trajectory of Italy and Portugal. You have also selected relevant data points to support your descriptions, such as the starting figures in 1967 and the final figures in 2007. To reach a higher band, ensure that all comparisons are fully accurate; for instance, you mentioned Sweden's emissions 'fell considerably' after 1977, which is a good observation. The response covers all parts of the task well and provides a clear summary of the data provided.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.0

The response is logically organized, with a clear introduction, an overview, and two body paragraphs that group the data effectively. You use cohesive devices such as 'In contrast', 'Meanwhile', and 'whereas' to link ideas and create a smooth flow. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate the initial data from the subsequent trends. The progression of information is logical, moving from the start of the period to the end. To improve further, ensure that referencing is always precise, as seen in the slight ambiguity in 'Sweden emissions' (should be 'Sweden's emissions').

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

You demonstrate a sufficient range of vocabulary to convey information with precision. Phrases like 'declined gradually', 'significant increases', and 'substantial decline' show a good command of descriptive language. You avoid repetition and use appropriate terminology for a data-driven task. There are no significant errors in word choice that impede communication. To reach a higher band, you could incorporate more sophisticated collocations or varied synonyms for 'increase' and 'decrease' to demonstrate greater flexibility, though your current usage is accurate and fits the context well.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.5

You use a mix of simple and complex sentence structures effectively. Most of your sentences are error-free, and your control of punctuation is generally good. There are a few minor slips, such as 'emissions in Sweden has increased' (should be 'had increased') and 'Sweden emissions' (should be 'Sweden's emissions'). These are rare and do not hinder the reader's understanding. You demonstrate a good grasp of tense usage, particularly when shifting between past and present perfect to describe trends over time. Continued attention to subject-verb agreement and possessive forms will help you achieve higher accuracy.

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