Recent IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 - UK visitors to Spain

📌 Note: This question appeared in the CBT-IELTS Writing exam on 2nd January, 2026 in India.  

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Band 9 Sample Answer:

The table compares the percentage distribution of UK visitors to Spain across different age groups in 1981 and 2015.

Overall, the data shows a clear shift in the age profile of visitors over the period. While people aged 25–35 formed the largest group in 1981, their proportion declined substantially by 2015. In contrast, the shares of younger adults and older travellers increased noticeably.

In 1981, half of all UK visitors to Spain were aged between 25 and 35, making this by far the most dominant age group. This was followed by those aged 35–45 at 22%, while people aged 55 and above accounted for 16%. Children aged 0–15 represented a relatively small proportion at 10%, and the smallest group was young adults aged 16–24, at just 4%.

By 2015, the pattern had changed considerably. The proportion of visitors aged 25–35 fell sharply to 32%, although it remained the largest single group. Meanwhile, the 16–24 age group experienced a dramatic rise, increasing to 15%. Similarly, the percentage of visitors aged 55 and over grew significantly to 25%, becoming the second-largest group. In contrast, the share of those aged 35–45 declined to 12%, matching the proportion of children aged 0–15, which rose slightly over the period.

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Band 9 Insights Based on IELTS Writing Band Descriptors:

Task Achievement – Band 9

• Fully addresses the task by accurately summarising and comparing data across both years.
• Includes a clear overall overview highlighting the main trends.
• No irrelevant data or speculation; all figures are precise.

Coherence & Cohesion – Band 9

• Well-organised into four logical paragraphs: introduction, overview, body paragraph for 1981, body paragraph for 2015.
• Uses natural linking expressions (Overall, In contrast, Meanwhile, By 2015).
• Information progresses logically and is easy to follow.

Lexical Resource – Band 9

• Uses a wide range of academic Task 1 vocabulary:
  • percentage distribution, dominant age group, declined substantially, experienced a dramatic rise
• Accurate and varied comparative language (fell sharply, grew significantly, remained the largest).
• No repetition or informal wording.

Grammatical Range & Accuracy – Band 9

• Uses complex sentence structures accurately.
• Consistent tense control (past simple for historical data).
• Error-free grammar and punctuation.

Overall Band: 9.0

This response meets all Band 9 criteria: clear overview, precise comparisons, advanced vocabulary, and flawless grammar.

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