Band 6.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.0 · Cambridge IELTS 12 · 2026-08-11

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 6.0)

The maps illustrate the current layout of a small town known as Islip and the proposed plans for its future development.

Overall, the town will undergo many significant changes after redevelopment. Several new facilities will be constructed in the center of town, while the road network will be completely redesigned. In addition, new housing will be developed in the town.

An analysis of the image reveals that the main road of Islip will be converted into a pedestrian crossing. Moreover, the shops on the northern side of the town will be occupied by a bus station, shopping centre, car park, whilst a new housing will be introduced to the north-east of the town.

From the image it is evident that, the entire road path will be reconstructed with a dual carriageway around the town. In addition, shops on either side of the main road and housing will be unchanged. Furthermore, new housing will be added beside the previous housing, while the size of the park will be reduced. However, the school and housing on the southern side of the town will be unchanged.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.0

You have successfully identified the main features of the maps, such as the pedestrianisation of the main road and the addition of new housing and facilities. You provided a clear overview and made relevant comparisons between the current and future states. However, there are some inaccuracies in your reporting; for instance, you mention that shops on either side of the main road will remain unchanged, whereas the map indicates they are being replaced by a bus station, shopping centre, and car park. To reach a higher band, ensure your data interpretation is precise and fully reflects the visual information provided.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5

The response is logically organised with a clear introduction, overview, and body paragraphs. You use cohesive devices such as 'In addition', 'Moreover', and 'Furthermore' to link ideas. However, the use of these devices is sometimes slightly mechanical. The paragraphing is appropriate, and there is a clear progression of ideas from the general overview to specific details. To improve, try to vary your cohesive devices further and ensure that the transition between sentences feels more natural rather than relying on a list-like structure.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.0

You demonstrate an adequate range of vocabulary for the task, using terms like 'redevelopment', 'pedestrian crossing', and 'dual carriageway' correctly. There are some minor issues with collocation and word choice, such as 'road path' instead of 'road network' or 'road layout'. While the vocabulary is sufficient to convey your meaning clearly, it lacks the sophistication and precision required for higher bands. Incorporating more precise descriptive language regarding spatial changes would enhance your score.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.0

You use a mix of simple and complex sentence structures, and your control of grammar is generally good. There are some minor errors, such as the unnecessary comma after 'evident that,' and the phrase 'a new housing' (housing is an uncountable noun). Despite these slips, your writing is easy to follow, and the errors do not impede communication. To move into the higher bands, aim for more consistent accuracy in complex structures and ensure articles are used correctly with uncountable nouns.

See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.

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