Band 5.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 5.5 · Cambridge IELTS 15 · 2026-09-05

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 5.5)

The line graph illustrates the proportion of sightseers visiting a well-known and eye catching place called Caribbean island in 2010 and 2017. There are three situations for visitors, foremost, who stayed on cruise ships. Secondly, who stopover on island and then collectively outcome of the people, who fulfilled the both previous tasks.

Overall, the graph compares the ratio of the people who went to Caribbean island, in 2017 the percentages of all three cases gradually rose up higher. Furthermore, in 2017, there is a sudden decline in the proportion of people who stayed on island.

The ratio of the people who stayed on cruise ships were below 0.5% from 2010 to 2013, nevertheless, began to increase gradually from 0.5% and ceased at 2% from 2013 to 2017, moreover the overall proportion of both cases remains in the top of the list, breaking the record of the visitors apparently 3.5%.

Consequently, the number of people who stayed on island were incredibly exceeded from 2010 to 2015, however, unfortunately in 2016 and 2017 it declined and remains in the lowest rank.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.5

The response covers the main features of the graph, identifying the three categories of tourists and noting the general upward trend. However, the analysis is hampered by inaccuracies in data interpretation. For example, the claim that there was a 'sudden decline' in island visitors in 2017 is not clearly supported by the data provided, and the description of the trends is somewhat vague. To reach a higher band, you should focus on selecting more precise data points to support your observations and ensure that your summary of the trends is factually accurate based on the visual information provided.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 5.5

The essay is organised into paragraphs, which helps the reader follow the structure. However, the use of cohesive devices is often mechanical or misused. Phrases like 'foremost' and 'consequently' are used incorrectly in this context, which disrupts the logical flow. While there is an attempt to sequence the information, the transitions between sentences feel disjointed. Improving the use of linking words and ensuring that each paragraph has a clear, singular focus would significantly enhance the coherence of your writing.

Lexical Resource — Band 5.0

The vocabulary used is somewhat limited and occasionally imprecise. Phrases like 'eye catching place' and 'collectively outcome' are unnatural and do not fit the formal tone required for an academic report. There are also issues with word choice, such as using 'ratio' when referring to the number of tourists. To improve, focus on using more precise terminology related to data description, such as 'proportion', 'fluctuation', or 'upward trend', and avoid informal or descriptive language that is not relevant to the task.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.0

The response contains frequent grammatical errors that occasionally impede clarity. There are issues with subject-verb agreement, such as 'the number of people... were' and 'the ratio of the people... were'. Additionally, sentence structures are often awkward, such as 'who fulfilled the both previous tasks'. While you attempt to use complex sentences, they are often faulty. Focusing on basic sentence construction and ensuring correct verb forms will help improve your accuracy. You should also proofread to correct simple errors in pluralisation and article usage.

See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.

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