Band 6.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.0 · Barron's Writing · 2026-09-07

IELTS Writing Task 1 question

You recently bought a jacket, but when you got home, you discovered it was
damaged. When you took it back to the store, you were told that merchandise
cannot be returned.

Write a letter to the store manager. In your letter:
• describe the problem with the jacket.
• explain what happened when you tried to return it.
• say what you would like the manager to do.

You do NOT need to write any addresses.

Begin your letter as follows:

Dear Sir or Madam,

Student answer (Band 6.0)

Dear Phil,

I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing this letter to express my concern about the purchase that I made at your store and to seek assistance in resolving this issue.

I purchase this jacket from your last week on promotional price. I was very excited about the new jacket. when I reached at home and took a closer look then I found a tear on the left sleeve and zipper is also broken and will not zip up.

I went to the store on the same day to exchange it. I explained all the situation to your staff member on the main counter but they denied this. They told me that our store has not return policy and they asked me you have take proper look of clothe before buying.

As I am your loyal customer, I would request to you please give me full refund for this jacket or ex

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.5

The letter addresses all three bullet points: the problem is described, the interaction with staff is explained, and a request for action is made. However, the response is incomplete as it cuts off mid-sentence at the end ('or ex'). This prevents the full development of the final point, which is a significant omission. While the tone is generally appropriate for a formal letter, the abrupt ending negatively impacts the overall task completion. To improve, ensure you complete your sentences and provide a clear, full conclusion to your request.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.0

The letter is organised into logical paragraphs, which helps the reader follow the narrative. However, the use of cohesive devices is somewhat mechanical and limited. For example, the transition between the problem description and the store visit is abrupt. Additionally, the incomplete ending disrupts the flow of the final paragraph. To improve, use a wider variety of linking words and phrases (e.g., 'consequently', 'furthermore', 'in light of this') to connect your ideas more fluidly and ensure that each paragraph has a clear, finished structure.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.0

The vocabulary is adequate for the task, but it lacks the precision and range expected at higher bands. Phrases like 'purchase that I made' and 'took a closer look' are functional but basic. There are also minor errors in word choice, such as 'has not return policy' instead of 'does not have a return policy'. To reach a higher band, try to incorporate more specific vocabulary related to retail and customer service, such as 'defective merchandise', 'store policy', or 'resolution'.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.5

The response contains a mix of simple and complex sentence structures, but there are frequent grammatical errors that occasionally impede clarity. Examples include 'I purchase this jacket from your last week' (tense error), 'reached at home' (preposition error), and 'you have take proper look of clothe' (incorrect verb form and article usage). While the meaning is generally understandable, these recurring errors in basic grammar and sentence construction prevent a higher score. Focus on subject-verb agreement, correct tense usage, and accurate prepositional phrases.

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

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