CRIME RATES IN CITIES

Crime Rate (per 1,000 people)

^

|120 | *

|110 | *

|100 | *

| 90 | *

| 80 | *

| 70 | *

| 60 | *

| 50 | *

+--------------------------------------------------> Years

2000 2005 2010 2015 2020

Band 7 Answer:

The line graph illustrates the changes in crime rates in cities between 2000 and 2020. Overall, it is clear that crime rates rose steadily throughout the period. In 2000, the rate was relatively low, at around 50 incidents per 1,000 people. Over the next five years, there was a moderate increase, followed by a sharper rise between 2005 and 2010. By 2015, crime rates had continued to climb, reaching almost double the initial figure. The highest rate is observed in 2020, when it peaked at around 120 incidents per 1,000 people. This upward trend indicates that crime became a more serious issue in cities over the two decades.

Band 8 Answer:

The provided line graph depicts crime rate trends in cities from 2000 to 2020. Overall, there was a consistent upward trajectory, with crime rates more than doubling over the twenty-year period. In 2000, the figure stood at about 50 incidents per 1,000 people, representing a relatively modest level. During the following five years, the increase was gradual, but from 2005 onwards, the growth became more pronounced. By 2010, crime rates had already risen significantly, and this upward trend continued into 2015. The most striking point is in 2020, when the crime rate reached its peak at nearly 120 incidents per 1,000 people. The data suggests a sustained escalation in urban crime, possibly linked to factors such as rapid urbanization, social inequality, or insufficient policing. Overall, the graph highlights a worrying trend, with crime becoming an increasingly severe challenge for city authorities.