Band 8.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 8.0 · Cambridge IELTS 12 · 2026-08-09
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 8.0)
The maps illustrate the current layout of the centre of a small town called Islip and the proposed changes to the area in the future.
Overall, the town centre is planned to undergo significant redevelopment. The main road will be replaced by a pedestrianised area, while a dual carriageway and a new circular road will be constructed around the centre. In addition, several new facilities and housing areas will be introduced.
At present, the town centre is divided by a main road running from east to west, with shops located on both sides. There is a countryside area to the north, while housing is situated mainly to the south. A school is located in the south-western part of the town, and a park lies to the east of the housing area.
Under the proposed development, the main road through the centre will become pedestrian-only, with shops remaining along its southern side. A shopping centre, car park and bus station will be built in the northern part of the pedestrianised area. The existing road will be replaced by a circular road, which will connect to a new dual carriageway on the western side.
The residential area will also be expanded considerably. New housing will be built in the north-east and south-east, while the existing park will remain in the eastern part of the town. The school will stay in its current location, although the surrounding road system will be substantially changed.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 8.0 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 7.5 |
| Lexical Resource | 7.5 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 8.0 |
| Overall | 8.0 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 8.0
The response is excellent. You have successfully identified all the key features of the maps, including the pedestrianisation of the centre, the new road infrastructure, and the expansion of residential areas. The overview is clear and effectively highlights the most significant changes. You have made relevant comparisons between the current and proposed layouts, such as noting the shift from a main road to a pedestrian-only zone and the addition of new facilities like the bus station and shopping centre. The information is logically selected and accurately reported, fully satisfying the requirements of the task.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5
The essay is well-structured with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a distinct focus: the introduction and overview, the current state, and the proposed changes. You have used cohesive devices effectively, such as 'In addition', 'At present', and 'Under the proposed development', which help guide the reader through the comparison. The paragraphing is logical, and the referencing (e.g., 'the existing road', 'the residential area') is precise, ensuring that the relationship between the two maps is easy to follow throughout the text.
Lexical Resource — Band 7.5
You demonstrate a strong command of vocabulary appropriate for describing maps and urban development. Phrases such as 'pedestrianised area', 'dual carriageway', 'proposed development', and 'substantially changed' are used accurately and naturally. The range of vocabulary is sufficient to convey precise meaning without repetition. There are no noticeable errors in word choice or collocation, and the language used is sophisticated enough to meet the requirements for a high band score in this criterion.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.0
The writing displays a wide range of grammatical structures, including complex sentences and passive voice constructions (e.g., 'will be replaced', 'will be constructed', 'will be built'). The sentences are almost entirely error-free, showing excellent control over tense usage and punctuation. The flow is natural, and the grammatical accuracy is consistent throughout the response. There are no slips that impede communication, and the variety of structures used effectively supports the clarity of the report.
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