Band 9 answers for Cambridge IELTS 20 Test 1
Cambridge IELTS 20
Test 1 Writing Task 1 & Writing Task 2 Model Answers
Preparing for the IELTS Writing exam requires not only practice but also a clear understanding of how high-band answers are structured. In this article, we present independently written model answers for Cambridge IELTS 20 Test 1- Writing Task 1 and Writing Task 2, created in a Cambridge-style format to help candidates understand task response, coherence, vocabulary, and overall structure.
These model answers are designed purely for educational and practice purposes and are not reproduced from any official Cambridge publication.
For the complete official test questions and visuals, candidates are advised to refer to the official Cambridge IELTS 20 book available on Amazon.
cambridge ielts 20 writing test1
Writing Task 1 – Model Answer
Task Type:
Writing Task 1 based on a tabular visual representation showing population changes over time
Band-9 Model Answer
The tables illustrate the changes in population across New York City and its five boroughs, Manhattan, Brooklyn, Bronx, Queens, and Staten Island over the period from 1800 to 2000.
Overall, New York City experienced dramatic population growth, expanding from just over 79,000 in 1800 to more than 8 million by 2000. However, while Manhattan initially held the majority of the city’s population, its share significantly declined over time as other districts grew more rapidly.
In 1800, Manhattan accounted for a substantial 76% of the total population, with just over 60,000 residents. The remaining boroughs were sparsely populated, contributing only 24% combined. By 1900, although Manhattan’s population had increased sharply to approximately 1.85 million, its proportional share dropped to 54%, indicating faster growth in the outer boroughs.
The trend continued into 2000. Despite a slight decline in Manhattan’s absolute population to around 1.54 million, the city as a whole more than doubled in size since 1900. The population in the other four districts surged to over 6.4 million, representing 81% of the city’s total. This shift highlights the decentralisation of population growth and the rise of the outer boroughs as major residential hubs.
cambridge ielts 20- writing test1
Writing Task 2 – Model Answer
Task Type:
Writing Task 2 discussing a social issue related to public resources and government responsibility
Band-9 Model Answer
Access to clean water is widely considered a fundamental human right. As such, many argue that every household should receive a basic water supply free of charge. I completely agree with this view, as it not only promotes public health but also helps reduce economic inequality, especially in underprivileged communities.
Firstly, ensuring free access to clean water is essential for protecting public health. Without it, people are forced to rely on unsafe sources, leading to widespread outbreaks of waterborne diseases such as cholera, typhoid, and dysentery. This is particularly common in rural parts of developing countries where water infrastructure is lacking. For instance, according to UNICEF, nearly 1,000 children die every day due to preventable diseases linked to poor water access. Providing a minimum daily water supply free of charge could significantly reduce this number, easing pressure on healthcare systems and improving life expectancy.
Secondly, offering water free of charge can ease the financial burden on low-income households. In many parts of the world, families spend a disproportionate amount of their income on water, often at the expense of essentials like food, education, and healthcare. In Bangladesh, for example, government-supported community water programs have allowed families to invest more in schooling and small businesses. By guaranteeing free access to water for basic needs, governments can empower citizens and promote long-term social mobility.
In conclusion, clean water is a life necessity and should be treated as a public good. Providing every household with free access to a basic water supply is both a moral obligation and a practical investment in a healthier, more equitable society.
Key Examiner-Style Highlights
- Clear position stated in the introduction
- Well-developed body paragraphs with examples
- Strong topic sentences and logical progression
- Clear, relevant conclusion
IELTS Writing Tips for Candidates
- Writing Task 1 responses should be at least 150 words
- Writing Task 2 essays should be at least 250 words
- Always include an overview in Task 1
- Support opinions with examples in Task 2
- Maintain a formal, academic tone throughout
Related Cambridge IELTS Writing Practice
- Cambridge IELTS 20 – Test 2 Writing Task 1 & 2 Model Answers
- Cambridge IELTS 19 Writing Task 2 Sample Answers
- IELTS Writing Band 8–9 Vocabulary for Essays
- IELTS Free Resources
Disclaimer
This Cambridge IELTS 20 Test 1 content is independently created by Altruist Language Hub and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or reproduced from Cambridge Assessment English or IELTS. All model answers are original and provided solely for educational and practice purposes.