Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.5 · Cambridge IELTS 19 · 2026-08-12

IELTS Writing Task 1 question

You would like to reduce your working hours in order to study part time.

Write a letter to your boss. In your letter

• explain why you want to reduce your working hours
• say which hours you would like to work
• describe how your part-time studies would benefit your employer

You do NOT need to write any addresses.

Begin your letter as follows:

Dear ....................................,

Student answer (Band 6.5)

Dear sir,

I am writing to request you to reduce my working hours in order to complete a Certificate in Project Management.

I am doing a course from University of Management and Technology on weekends to improve my management skills. My final exams are approaching near and I need some extra time to do preparations.

I want you to spare me for two hours before off time. This would provide me an opportunity to have some extra time for my studies, so I can excel in them. Moreover, I have already talked to Mr. Ahmad to work on my behalf in my absence to compensate workload.

I believe that after getting my certificate I would be able to contribute in company positively. I will be able to manage projects more effectively. Furthermore, I would be able to communicate with other partner effectively and it will benefit the organisation in a positive manner.

I believe, you would consider my request and allow me a reduction in working hours. I am looking forward to hearing a positive response from you.

Your Faithfully,

Sana

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.0

The letter successfully addresses all three bullet points required by the prompt. You clearly explain the reason for the request (Certificate in Project Management), specify the desired hours (two hours before the end of the shift), and outline the benefits to the employer (improved project management and communication skills). The tone is appropriate for a formal letter to a supervisor. The ideas are relevant and well-developed, ensuring the reader understands both your needs and the professional advantages for the company. The structure is logical and follows the conventions of a formal request letter, meeting all task requirements effectively.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5

The letter is well-organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph serves a specific purpose, moving from the request to the justification and finally the benefits. You use cohesive devices such as 'Moreover', 'Furthermore', and 'In addition' to link your points, although some transitions could be more varied. The paragraphing is logical, and the overall flow is easy to follow. While the connection between sentences is generally smooth, a slightly more sophisticated use of referencing or substitution could elevate the coherence further. Overall, the information is presented in a logical and professional manner.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.0

You demonstrate an adequate range of vocabulary for the task, using professional terms like 'compensate workload', 'effectively', and 'organisation'. However, there are some minor inaccuracies and awkward phrasings, such as 'approaching near' (redundant) and 'communicate with other partner' (should be plural 'partners'). While you successfully convey your message, the vocabulary is somewhat functional rather than sophisticated. To reach a higher band, try to incorporate more precise collocations and avoid repetitive phrasing. The current range is sufficient to communicate your request clearly without any misunderstanding.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.0

You use a mix of simple and complex sentence structures. There are some grammatical errors, such as 'I am doing a course from University' (should be 'at the University') and 'contribute in company' (should be 'contribute to the company'). Additionally, 'Your Faithfully' is incorrect; it should be 'Yours faithfully'. Despite these errors, the meaning remains clear throughout the letter. You have attempted complex sentences, but the control over articles and prepositions is inconsistent. Focusing on subject-verb agreement and preposition usage will help improve your accuracy in future writing tasks.

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

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