On this page, you will find a model answer for an IELTS bar chart. This chart is over time, so it uses the ‘language of change‘.
Bar Chart Sample with 2 data
| You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. The chart shows the components of GDP in the UK from 1992 to 2000. Summarize the information by selecting and reporting the main features and make comparisons where relevant. Write at least 150 words. |

Model Answer
The bar chart illustrates the gross domestic product generated from the IT and Service Industry in the UK from 1992 to 2000. It is measured in percentages. Overall, it can be seen that both increased as a percentage of GDP, but IT remained at a higher rate throughout this time.
At the beginning of the period, in 1992, the Service Industry accounted for 4 percent of GDP, whereas IT exceeded this, at just over 6 percent. Over the next four years, the levels became more similar, with both components standing between 6 and just over 8 percent. IT was still higher overall, though it dropped slightly from 1994 to 1996.
However, over the following four years, the patterns of the two components were noticeably different. The percentage of GDP from IT increased quite sharply to 12 in 1998 and then nearly 15 in 2000, while the Service Industry stayed nearly the same, increasing to only 8 percent.
At the end of the period, the percentage of GDP from IT was almost twice that of the Service Industry.
(182 Words)
Comment About The Task
Task Achievement: Band 8
- The response accurately summarizes the key trends in the bar chart, highlighting the overall increase in both industries’ contributions to GDP and the fact that IT remained higher throughout the period.
- Specific figures are provided for the various years, adding detail and precision.
- The overall task is well addressed, but the final comparison (“almost twice that of the Service Industry”) could be more specific with actual figures for a slightly stronger conclusion.
Coherence and Cohesion: Band 8
- The response is logically structured, with clear progression from the beginning to the end of the time period.
- Linking phrases like “At the beginning,” “Over the next four years,” and “However” help guide the reader through the description, making the relationships between the data points clear.
- A slightly more varied use of cohesive devices could push the score higher, but overall, the response is cohesive and well-organized.
Lexical Resource: Band 7
- A good range of vocabulary is used appropriately, with terms like “accounted for,” “exceeded,” “sharply,” and “noticeably different.”
- Some repetition is present, such as the use of “percent” and “increased.” More varied expressions for describing changes or comparisons would enhance the lexical range.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 8
- A wide range of grammatical structures is used, including complex sentences and time-related clauses (“At the beginning of the period,” “Over the following four years”).
- There are no significant grammatical errors, and the sentence structures are varied and accurate.
- Minor improvements in complexity and variety would elevate the score further.
Overall Band: 7.5-8
This is a strong response that provides a clear and detailed description of the bar chart. It effectively uses grammar and vocabulary, but there is room for slight improvements in lexical variety and more specific detail in the concluding sentence.

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