Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.5 · Cambridge IELTS 19 · 2026-07-24

IELTS Writing Task 1 question

The plans below show a harbour in 2000 and how it looks today.

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

 

 

Student answer (Band 6.5)

The plans of a harbour in 2000 and upgraded to recent time. The key noticeable changes are discuss further.

Firstly, in the north zone in 2000 there was only one space for dock that change into 2 docks in today. In west zone, this was the most reconstructed part in harbour in 2000 marina for private yachts that now come to fishing boats and on the opposite the same marina has build but with larger area. Moreover, the one thing that newly introduce is the showers and toilets.

Secondly, in south zone in 2000 there was anything for eating but in today there is a cafes and shops touching with river. Furthermore, in south east part there was castle in middle of the land but now rebuild into hotel and they also acquire public beach that near into hotel and road is now newly build for hotel visitors.

In conclusion, the most developed part of the harbour is west side. And for visitors south is the most relaxed place for them. In east, there is no changes because most part of area surrounded with water.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.5

The response covers the main features of the harbour plans, identifying key changes such as the increase in docks, the addition of leisure facilities, and the conversion of the castle. However, the overview is weak; it lacks a clear summary of the most significant trends, such as the overall modernisation and expansion of facilities. Some descriptions are slightly inaccurate or confusing, such as the claim that the east side has 'no changes' when the map shows a new road and beach area. To improve, ensure the overview highlights the most striking transformations and provide more precise descriptions of the spatial changes.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5

The essay is organised into logical paragraphs, which helps the reader follow the description. The use of linking words like 'Firstly', 'Secondly', and 'In conclusion' provides a basic structure. However, the cohesion is sometimes mechanical, and there are issues with referencing and clarity. For example, the phrase 'on the opposite the same marina has build' is difficult to follow, and the transition between ideas within paragraphs could be smoother. The use of cohesive devices is adequate but lacks the flexibility required for a higher band score.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.0

The vocabulary is generally adequate for the task, allowing the student to describe the changes, such as 'reconstructed', 'modernised', and 'facilities'. However, there are several instances of awkward word choice and collocation errors, such as 'anything for eating' instead of 'no dining facilities' and 'touching with river' instead of 'along the riverfront'. The range of vocabulary is somewhat limited, relying on basic descriptors. To reach a higher band, the student should focus on using more precise terminology related to urban planning and map description.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.0

The response contains a mix of simple and complex sentence structures, but there are frequent grammatical errors that occasionally impede clarity. Common issues include incorrect verb tenses ('has build' instead of 'has been built'), missing articles ('there was castle'), and awkward phrasing ('that change into 2 docks in today'). While the meaning is generally understandable, the frequency of these errors prevents the writing from being considered accurate. Focusing on subject-verb agreement and the correct use of passive voice for describing changes would significantly improve the quality of the writing.

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