Band 7.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.0 · Cambridge IELTS 12 · 2026-08-03

IELTS Writing Task 1 question

The maps below show the centre of a small town called Islip as it is now, and plans for its development.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

Student answer (Band 7.0)

The given map illustrate the current layout of the centre of a small town called Islip and the planned changes for its future development.

Overall, it is crystal clear that the town centre is expected to undergo significant redevelopment. However, school is forecast remain similar over the given period of time.

At a fleeting glance, the main road runs through the middle of the town, with shops located on both sides. To the north lies the countryside, while housing occupies most of the southern area. A school is situated in the south-west, and a park is located in the south-east.

Moving further, according to the plan, the existing main road will be replaced by a pedestrian zone lined with shops. A dual carriageway will encircle the town centre and connect with the roads at both ends. On the northern side of the pedestrian area, a bus station will be constructed in the west, followed by a shopping centre and a car park, while new housing will be added in the north-east. In the southern section, some housing will remain, although part of it will be replaced by additional residential buildings. The park in the south-east will be retained, whereas the school in the south-west will remain unchanged.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.0

The response effectively addresses all requirements of the task. You have provided a clear overview of the main changes, such as the pedestrianization of the town centre and the addition of a dual carriageway. The key features of both the current and planned maps are accurately identified and compared. The information is well-selected, and the progression from the current state to the future plan is logical. You have successfully highlighted the main differences, such as the new bus station and shopping centre, while noting the elements that remain unchanged, like the school. This demonstrates a strong ability to synthesize visual information into a coherent summary.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.0

The response is logically organized with a clear introduction, an overview, and two body paragraphs that distinguish between the current layout and the future plans. Cohesive devices such as 'Moving further', 'while', 'whereas', and 'although' are used effectively to link ideas and contrast information. The paragraphing is appropriate, and the flow of information is smooth throughout the text. Each paragraph has a clear focus, which helps the reader follow the development of the town centre easily. There is no evidence of mechanical or repetitive use of cohesive devices, and the overall structure is very professional.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

You demonstrate a good range of vocabulary appropriate for a task of this nature. Phrases like 'undergo significant redevelopment', 'encircle the town centre', and 'pedestrian zone' are used accurately. The vocabulary is precise and contributes to the clarity of the description. While the range is sufficient and effective, it could be slightly more sophisticated to reach the highest band. For instance, instead of 'At a fleeting glance', which is a bit informal, a more academic transition could be used. Overall, the lexical control is strong, and there are no errors that impede communication.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.5

The response displays a good variety of complex sentence structures, such as the use of passive voice ('will be replaced', 'will be constructed') and subordinate clauses ('although part of it will be replaced'). The grammar is generally accurate, with only a few minor slips, such as the subject-verb agreement error in the first sentence ('The given map illustrate' should be 'illustrates'). However, these are rare and do not affect the clarity of the message. The majority of your sentences are error-free, and the punctuation is used correctly throughout the text, demonstrating a high level of control.

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