Band 5.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 5.5 · Cambridge IELTS 12 · 2026-08-13
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 5.5)
The set of maps illustrate current and expected plan of Islip town centre.
It can be observed that, at the moment, school has been built in the south-west side. There have been housing in the center. Park has been constructed in the south-east side. Main road which has been located in north direction. Shops are situated on the both side of main road. Countryside area is unused which is located in north direction.
It can be seen that, in future, single carriageway will be converted into dual carriageway. Park size will be reduce in the south-east corner. Main road will be replaced by pedestrians road. Additional bus station, shopping centre, car park will be constructed in the north side. New housing will be added on both side of pedestrians road.
Overall, although there are limited facilities like shops, housing, school and park, more modern amenities will be added such as bus station, shopping centre, car park and new housing.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 5.5 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 5.5 |
| Lexical Resource | 5.5 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 5.5 |
| Overall | 5.5 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.5
The response covers the main features of the maps, including the current layout and the proposed changes. However, the description is somewhat mechanical and lacks a clear overview of the most significant changes, such as the shift from a vehicle-focused town to a pedestrian-friendly one. While the key developments (bus station, shopping centre, housing) are mentioned, the comparison between the two maps could be more analytical. The summary provided in the final paragraph is a good start but remains a list of features rather than a synthesis of the transformation. To improve, focus on grouping related changes and highlighting the overall trend of the development.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 5.5
The response is organized into logical paragraphs, which helps the reader follow the progression from the current state to the future plans. However, the use of cohesive devices is quite repetitive and mechanical. Phrases like 'It can be observed that' and 'It can be seen that' are used at the start of consecutive paragraphs, which makes the writing feel formulaic. There is a lack of varied linking words to connect ideas within sentences. Improving the flow by using a wider range of transition signals (e.g., 'consequently', 'in contrast', 'furthermore') would enhance the overall coherence.
Lexical Resource — Band 5.5
The vocabulary is generally adequate for the task but lacks variety and precision. You rely on basic verbs like 'built', 'constructed', and 'added'. There is also some awkward phrasing, such as 'pedestrians road' instead of 'pedestrianized road' or 'pedestrian zone'. The use of 'countryside area is unused' is also slightly unnatural. To reach a higher band, try to incorporate more sophisticated vocabulary related to urban planning, such as 'infrastructure', 'redevelopment', 'expansion', or 'conversion'. Focusing on accurate collocations will also help improve your score.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.5
There are several grammatical errors throughout the text, particularly with articles and verb tenses. For example, 'school has been built' should be 'a school is located', and 'Main road which has been located' is a fragmented, incorrect structure. You also missed articles in several places, such as 'Park has been constructed' (should be 'A park'). While you attempt some complex structures, they are often inaccurate. Focusing on basic sentence construction and ensuring correct subject-verb agreement and article usage will significantly improve your clarity and accuracy.
See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.
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