IELTS Writing Task 1: Household Recycling Rates Line Graph

IELTS Writing Practice — AI-Powered Feedback

Writing Prompt

The line graph below shows the percentage of household waste that was recycled in three regions of one country between 2000 and 2020. 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 household recycling rates in three regions of a country – Eastfield, Westmoor and Northgate – between 2000 and 2020.

Overall, recycling increased substantially in all three regions over the period, with Northgate experiencing the most dramatic rise and ultimately recording the highest rate by 2020. Eastfield and Westmoor grew more moderately and ended at broadly similar levels.

In 2000, Westmoor led in recycling, at around 35%, while Eastfield recycled roughly 20% of its household waste. Northgate lagged far behind, with only about 5%. Over the next decade, Westmoor’s rate climbed steadily to just above 40% by 2010, whereas Eastfield rose more gradually, reaching approximately 30% in the same year. Northgate, though starting from a low base, had already tripled its rate to around 15% by 2010.

Between 2010 and 2020, Northgate’s performance improved sharply. Its recycling rate surged to about 50% by 2015 and peaked at roughly 60% in 2020, overtaking both rivals. In contrast, Westmoor’s growth slowed, edging up to about 45% in 2015 and just under 50% by 2020. Eastfield followed a similar upward trend, reaching around 35% in 2015 and finishing at roughly 40% at the end of the period.

Why this response works

This response clearly introduces the topic and provides an effective overview highlighting overall trends and final rankings. Key data from all three regions and all time points are accurately reported, with appropriate approximations (e.g. “around”, “roughly”). Comparisons are made throughout, noting changing leadership and differing growth rates. The report is well organised into logical paragraphs, with cohesive devices used naturally rather than mechanically. Vocabulary is varied and precise for this task type, and sentence structures are flexible and accurate, supporting a high band score across all criteria.