Band 8.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 8.5 · Cambridge IELTS 15 · 2026-08-28

IELTS Writing Task 1 question

The graph below shows the number of tourists visiting a particular Caribbean island between 2010 and 2017.

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

Student answer (Band 8.5)

The line graph illustrates the number of tourists who visited a Caribbean island between 2010 and 2017, distinguishing between visitors staying on the island and those staying on cruise ships.

Overall, the total number of tourists increased substantially over the period. Although visitors staying on the island initially outnumbered those staying on cruise ships, the latter figure grew more rapidly and became the larger group by the end of the period.

In 2010, approximately 0.75 million tourists stayed on the island, compared with only 0.25 million who stayed on cruise ships. The number of visitors staying on the island then rose steadily to 1.5 million in 2013 and remained unchanged until 2015. It subsequently fell slightly to around 1.25 million in 2016 before recovering to 1.5 million in the final year.

By contrast, the number of tourists staying on cruise ships increased more dramatically. After rising from 0.25 million to 0.5 million in 2011, the figure remained stable until 2013. It then grew rapidly, reaching 1 million in 2014 and approximately 2 million in 2017. Consequently, the total number of visitors rose from 1 million in 2010 to 3.5 million in 2017, though it remained stable at around 2.75 million between 2015 and 2016.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 8.5

The response is excellent. You have successfully identified all key features, including the initial trends, the crossover point, and the final figures. The overview is clear and effectively captures the main trends (the overall increase and the shift in popularity between the two categories). You have made relevant comparisons throughout, such as noting that cruise ship visitors grew more rapidly than those staying on the island. The data is accurately reported, and the structure allows for a logical comparison of the two categories. You have fully addressed all parts of the prompt with a clear, analytical approach.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.5

The essay is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a distinct focus: the introduction, the overview, and two body paragraphs detailing the specific data points. You use a variety of cohesive devices effectively, such as 'By contrast,' 'consequently,' and 'subsequently,' which help guide the reader through the data. The paragraphing is skillful, and the referencing (e.g., 'the latter figure') is precise and natural. The flow of information is smooth, making the report easy to follow and professional in tone.

Lexical Resource — Band 8.5

You demonstrate a wide and sophisticated range of vocabulary. Phrases like 'distinguishing between,' 'grew more rapidly,' 'remained unchanged,' and 'recovering to' are used accurately and in the correct context. The vocabulary is precise and contributes to a professional, academic tone. There are no errors in word choice or collocation, and the language is used with natural control throughout the response. You successfully avoid repetition by using varied synonyms for growth and decline, which enhances the quality of the writing.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.5

The grammar is highly accurate, with a wide range of complex structures used correctly. You effectively use subordinating conjunctions ('Although,' 'though') and participial phrases to create varied sentence structures. Punctuation is used correctly throughout, and there are no grammatical errors that impede communication. The control over tense and aspect is consistent, reflecting the historical nature of the data provided. The majority of your sentences are error-free, and the overall construction is sophisticated and precise, meeting the requirements for the highest band.

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