IELTS Writing Task 1: Average House Prices in Two Cities Line Graph

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Writing Prompt

The line graph below shows the average price of a house, measured in thousands of pounds, in two cities between 2010 and 2022. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

Write at least 150 words.

Show Band 8–9 model answer

The line graph compares average house prices in Harborough and Kingsmere between 2010 and 2022, with values given in thousands of pounds.

Overall, house prices rose in both cities over the period, but Harborough experienced much steeper growth and ended up considerably more expensive than Kingsmere.

In 2010, average property prices in Harborough stood at around £150,000, already higher than Kingsmere’s figure of roughly £100,000. Both cities saw moderate increases over the next three years, reaching about £180,000 in Harborough and £120,000 in Kingsmere by 2013.

Between 2013 and 2019, Harborough’s housing market accelerated markedly. Prices climbed from approximately £180,000 to £300,000, an increase of about two-thirds. Kingsmere also saw steady growth over the same period, though less dramatic, with prices rising to around £180,000 in 2019.

By 2022, the upward trend continued in both locations, but the gap widened further. Harborough’s average house price peaked at around £380,000, more than double its 2010 level, whereas Kingsmere’s figure reached roughly £220,000. Despite consistent increases in both cities, Harborough remained significantly more expensive throughout.

Why this response works

This response meets Band 8–9 standards by clearly presenting an overview that highlights both the general upward trend and the widening price gap. Data are reported accurately with appropriate approximations, and key years and values are selectively summarised rather than listed mechanically. Comparisons between the two cities are consistently integrated across the period. The organisation is logical, with clear paragraphing and progression. Lexical resource is strong but natural, using varied terms for change, and grammar is accurate with a range of complex sentences and minimal errors.