Band 8.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 8.5 · Cambridge IELTS 11 · 2026-09-02

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 8.5)

The line graph compares average per-capita carbon dioxide emissions in the United Kingdom, Sweden, Italy and Portugal from 1967 to 2007, measured in metric tonnes.

Overall, the UK recorded the highest emissions throughout the period, although its figure declined gradually. Sweden reached a peak early on before experiencing a sharp fall, whereas Italy and Portugal showed continuous growth. By 2007, the figures had converged considerably, with Sweden and Portugal producing almost identical amounts.

In 1967, average emissions in the UK stood at just under 11 tonnes per person, compared with approximately 8.5 tonnes in Sweden. The British figure remained relatively stable until 1977 and then decreased steadily to about 8.7 tonnes in 2007. Swedish emissions, by contrast, rose to slightly over 10 tonnes in 1977, before falling dramatically to around 5.5 tonnes by the end.

Meanwhile, Italy’s figure increased from just above 4 tonnes in 1967 to approximately 7.7 tonnes in 1997, after which it remained unchanged. Portugal started at only about 1 tonne but experienced steady growth, reaching roughly 5.5 tonnes in 2007. Consequently, Portugal ended the period level with Sweden, while Italy became the second-highest emitter.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 8.5

The response is excellent. You have successfully identified the main trends and provided a clear overview of the data. You have selected key features, such as the UK's gradual decline and the convergence of Sweden and Portugal, and supported these with accurate data points. The comparison between countries is well-integrated throughout the report. You have fully addressed all parts of the task, ensuring that the information is presented in a logical and analytical manner. There are no omissions, and the summary is both concise and comprehensive, meeting the requirements for a high band score.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.5

The response is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a distinct focus: the introduction, the overview, and the detailed body paragraphs. You have used cohesive devices effectively, such as 'whereas', 'by contrast', 'meanwhile', and 'consequently', to link sentences and ideas smoothly. The paragraphing is appropriate, and the information flows naturally from the general trends to the specific data points. There is no evidence of mechanical or repetitive use of linking words, and the overall structure is very coherent.

Lexical Resource — Band 8.0

You have demonstrated a wide and flexible range of vocabulary, which is used with precision. Phrases such as 'per-capita carbon dioxide emissions', 'recorded the highest emissions', 'sharp fall', and 'continuous growth' are used naturally and accurately. You have successfully avoided repetition by using varied synonyms and descriptive language to characterize the trends in the graph. The control over word choice is sophisticated, and there are no errors that impede communication or detract from the professional tone of the report.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.5

The response displays a wide range of grammatical structures, including complex sentences and varied clause types. The majority of your sentences are error-free, and your control over punctuation and tense usage is excellent. You have used a mix of simple and complex forms effectively to convey information clearly. There are no noticeable grammatical errors, and the accuracy is consistent throughout the text. The writing is fluent and demonstrates a high level of grammatical competence.

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