Writing Task 1 & 2: Sample Answers for Migration Topics – IELTS Band 8+ Guide

Unlock Band 8+ IELTS scores with model Writing Task 1 & 2 migration sample answers, essay tips, and real question analysis for both Academic and General Training.

Introduction

Migration is a frequent and versatile topic on IELTS Writing Tasks 1 & 2. High scores hinge on mastering process, structure, and language specific to migration-related charts, diagrams, and essay prompts. While only a small percentage of candidates achieve Band 8 or higher, effective use of migration sample answers and targeted IELTS migration writing tips can transform both your exam approach and your results. This article presents expert-developed Writing Task 1 migration sample responses and Writing Task 2 migration essay examples, all formatted for clarity, coherence, and top IELTS bands.

IELTS Writing Task 1 Migration Sample: How to Approach Charts and Data

IELTS Writing Task 1 (Academic) commonly features migration charts—bar graphs, pie charts, or tables comparing immigration and emigration flows or reasons. Your goal is to summarize key trends, compare data, and avoid opinion or speculation.

Approach and Tips

• Read the prompt carefully. Identify units (percent, number), time spans, and countries involved.
• Plan before writing. Note 2-3 key features or significant trends.
• Paraphrase the task prompt. This signals strong lexical resource.
• Overview before details. Present the main trend or most striking feature up front.
• Group data logically. Compare similarities and differences—don’t list numbers aimlessly.
• Use varied vocabulary. “The number of emigrants,” “the percentage of immigrants,” “while,” “in contrast,” “rose/shrank,” etc.

Sample Band 9 Answer – Immigration Bar Chart

Task:
The bar chart shows British emigration to selected destinations between 2004 and 2007.
Write at least 150 words.

Model Answer:
The bar graph illustrates the number of British people emigrating to Australia, Spain, New Zealand, the USA, and France during 2004–2007.

Overall, Australia was the most popular destination each year, while France experienced significant fluctuation. Emigration to Australia remained steady at around 40,000, peaking at approximately 52,000 in 2006. Spain attracted about 35,000 Britons in 2004, but this figure declined steadily, falling below 30,000 by 2007. Emigration to New Zealand hovered near 20,000 annually, whereas the number heading to the USA fluctuated between 20,000 and 25,000. Notably, France saw a spike to nearly 35,000 in 2005, but by 2007 it had become the least preferred destination, with fewer than 20,000 departures.

In summary, despite some variation among other countries, Australia consistently drew the largest number of emigrants, while France’s popularity dropped sharply after a temporary increase.

Sample Band 8+ Answer – IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Migration (Pie Charts)

Task:
The pie charts show main reasons for migration to and from the UK in 2014.
Write at least 150 words.

Model Answer:
The two pie charts depict primary reasons for both immigration to and emigration from the UK in 2014.

Overall, academic study and employment were the dominant motives, but more immigrants moved for formal study compared with emigrants. Specifically, 31% immigrated for education, making it the largest group, while 28% had pre-arranged jobs. Conversely, emigration was led by people seeking work or new jobs (30%) and those with confirmed employment offers (19%). Migration to join family represented 10% for immigration and a similar percentage for emigration. Interestingly, more people (14%) emigrated for unspecified reasons compared to only 7% of immigrants.

In short, study and work fuelled most migration, but education’s importance was notably higher among newcomers to the UK.

IELTS Writing Task 2 Migration Essay: Opinion-Based and Discussion Prompts

In Task 2, “migration” often appears as either a direct essay topic (e.g., “causes of migration IELTS essay”) or as an underlying theme in questions about cities, population, or globalization. Band 9 sample answer migration essays cover causes, effects, advantages vs. disadvantages, and societal impacts.

Effective IELTS Writing Task 2 Strategies

• Address all parts of the prompt. Is it an opinion, discussion, solution, or two-sided essay?
• Structure matters: Introduction → outline opinion/argument → body paragraphs (with examples/data) → conclusion.
• Cohesive devices and varied vocabulary (“Moreover,” “On the other hand,” “This results in…”).
• Balance perspectives when asked, even if you must present your view.
• Direct, relevant examples—UK migration, international trends, personal/observed experience.

Sample Band 9 Answer – Immigration Essay Writing Task 2

Prompt:
Many people decide to move to other countries for better job opportunities or improved quality of life. What are the main reasons for migration, and what challenges can migrants experience?
Write at least 250 words.

Model Answer:
Migration has become increasingly common in modern society, with millions seeking improved employment prospects or a better quality of life abroad. This essay examines the main motivations for migration and the difficulties migrants often encounter.

The primary reason people migrate is economic opportunity. Many developing countries cannot offer adequate jobs or salaries, prompting skilled individuals to seek employment abroad. For example, nurses and engineers from India or Nigeria frequently move to the UK or Australia for higher wages and professional growth. Another significant factor is quality of life. Migrants often cite safer environments, better healthcare, and educational opportunities for their children as influential reasons for relocating.

However, migration is not without challenges. Firstly, cultural and language barriers can hinder social integration and limit job opportunities, even for highly-skilled professionals. Secondly, migrants may experience discrimination in housing or workplace settings. This can result in lower life satisfaction and slower adaptation to the new society. Finally, separation from family and support networks is emotionally taxing, contributing to stress and loneliness.

In conclusion, while economic prospects and lifestyle improvement are key drivers of migration, successful adaptation requires overcoming social and emotional obstacles.

Migration Essay Types: Opinion, Advantages & Disadvantages, and Problem-Solution

IELTS Writing Task 2 migration essays often require specific structures. Here are sample structures:

IELTS Migration Writing Tips for High Bands

• Analyze model answers for migration topics and break down band descriptors (task response, cohesion, lexical resource, grammar).
• Practice paraphrasing IELTS migration vocabulary and phrases for introductions, overviews, and data commentary.
• Review IELTS migration practice questions—get feedback, revise based on mistakes, and note examiner comments.
• Memorize linking words (however, therefore, overall, in comparison, unlike) and data-commentary phrases (e.g., “by contrast,” “remained stable,” “experienced a sharp decline”).
• Stay focused; avoid speculation in Task 1 and personal anecdotes unless explicitly required in Task 2.

Conclusion

IELTS migration sample answers for Writing Task 1 & 2 not only boost your confidence but also reveal the structure, tone, and language needed for Band 8+. Whether analyzing an immigration bar chart or building a coherent migration essay, practicing with model answers and examiner-recommended writing tips leads directly to higher scores. Prioritize clear structure, comparative data language, and critical thinking—and let your writing reflect real IELTS examiners’ expectations.