(Band 9 Sample Report)

Question:

The charts below show the percentage of energy produced from different sources in a country in 1990 and 2020.
Summarize the information by selecting and reporting the main features and making comparisons where relevant.

Band 9 Sample Answer:

The two pie charts compare the proportion of energy generated from five different sources in a particular country in 1990 and 2020.

Overall, it is evident that renewable sources such as solar and wind energy became far more significant, while the share of traditional sources like coal and oil declined substantially over the 30-year period.

In 1990, coal was the dominant source, accounting for 40% of total energy production, followed by oil at 30%. Natural gas contributed 15%, whereas solar and wind energy were relatively insignificant, together making up just 15%.

By 2020, the pattern had shifted dramatically. The proportion of coal fell to 20%, and oil dropped by half to 15%. In contrast, solar energy rose sharply to 25%, becoming the largest source, while wind power tripled to 20%. Natural gas experienced only a slight increase to 20%.

In summary, energy production in this country moved away from fossil fuels and towards renewable alternatives, especially solar and wind power.

Examiner’s Feedback (Band 9 Justification)

Criterion	Band	Comments
Task Achievement	9	Clear overview, all main trends identified, accurate data selection.
Coherence & Cohesion	9	Logical paragraphing, smooth transitions (while, whereas, in contrast).
Lexical Resource	9	Excellent range (“dominant source”, “shifted dramatically”, “proportion”, “renewable alternatives”).
Grammar Range & Accuracy	9	Complex sentences, no grammatical errors.

Overall Band: 9.0

IELTS Academic Writing Task 2 (Band 9 Sample Essay)

Question

Some people believe that the purpose of education is to prepare individuals to be useful members of society, while others think it should help them achieve personal ambitions.
Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Band 9 Sample Answer:

Education has long been viewed as the cornerstone of personal and national progress. While some argue that its primary role is to produce socially responsible citizens, others believe that it should focus on fulfilling individual goals. This essay will discuss both perspectives before expressing my own view that education must strike a balance between the two.

On the one hand, many people emphasize the social function of education. Schools and universities equip young people with the knowledge and values needed to contribute positively to their communities. For instance, teaching civic responsibility, teamwork, and ethics ensures that graduates become responsible citizens rather than self-centered individuals. Furthermore, societies depend on educated individuals to sustain public services such as healthcare, law enforcement, and governance, which collectively promote social harmony.

On the other hand, education also plays a crucial role in personal development. It enables individuals to pursue their dreams, discover their talents, and achieve economic independence. When learners follow their passions—whether in art, science, or business—they not only find personal satisfaction but often make innovative contributions to society as well. For example, entrepreneurs who build successful companies create jobs and stimulate national growth, thereby indirectly benefiting the wider community.

In conclusion, both arguments are valid: education should prepare individuals for social participation while also empowering them to fulfil their personal aspirations. A balanced approach, which values both collective responsibility and individual freedom, would create the most productive and harmonious society.

Examiner’s Feedback (Band 9 Justification)

Criterion	Band	Comments
Task Response	9	Fully addresses both sides, clear personal opinion, well-developed ideas.
Coherence & Cohesion	9	Smooth logical flow, excellent paragraphing, cohesive devices used naturally.
Lexical Resource	9	Precise academic vocabulary (“cornerstone”, “collectively promote”, “economic independence”, “empowering”).
Grammar Range & Accuracy	9	Flawless complex structures, no errors.

Overall Band: 9.0

Bonus: Band 9 Writing Tips (2025 Edition)

For Task 1

• Always include an overview with main trends (required for Band 7+).
• Avoid copying the question; paraphrase instead.
• Group data logically, not mechanically.
• Use comparative structures (while A rose, B declined).

For Task 2

• Spend 5 minutes planning (outline ideas and examples).
• Keep paragraphs balanced (each around 90–100 words).
• Use formal academic tone — no contractions (don’t → do not).
• Support each argument with a specific example or reasoning.
• Proofread for grammar and spelling in the final 3 minutes.