Band 5.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 5.5 · Cambridge IELTS 19 · 2026-08-17

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 5.5)

Dear Sir ,

I am reaching out you for your assistance , that is to minimize my working hours . I have started my course of MBA since last month in ROYAL COLLEGE in the evening shift , but I could not manage to attend the class regularly , due to time shortage .

My class starts at 6 o ,clock pm ,but I have to leave at 6;30 pm . Significant time also wastes on commuting , which are the causes of my late arrival at college .

I am working in your company since last three years . I am very dedicated ,hard working and reliable employee . I am always punctual and perform my tasks efficiently . My new course will improve my ability to perform well and thus , contribute to your company more effectively .

I really appreci

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.0

The letter covers all three bullet points: the reason for the request, the specific hours desired, and the benefits to the employer. However, the response is incomplete, ending abruptly mid-sentence, and fails to meet the minimum word count requirement of 150 words. This significantly impacts the development of ideas. While the purpose is clear, the lack of a proper closing and the brevity of the content prevent a higher score. To improve, ensure you fully develop each point and include a formal sign-off.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 5.5

The letter is organised into paragraphs, which helps the reader follow the structure. However, the use of cohesive devices is somewhat mechanical and limited. For example, the transition between the explanation of the course and the request for hours is abrupt. The abrupt ending also disrupts the overall flow and coherence of the letter. To improve, use a wider variety of linking words and ensure that each paragraph transitions smoothly into the next, leading to a logical conclusion.

Lexical Resource — Band 5.5

The vocabulary is generally adequate for the task but lacks sophistication. Phrases like 'reaching out you for your assistance' and 'time shortage' are understandable but not entirely natural in a formal business context. There are also some minor errors in word choice, such as 'Significant time also wastes' (should be 'is wasted'). To reach a higher band, focus on using more precise business collocations and avoiding repetitive phrasing. Expanding your range of vocabulary will help convey your message with greater professional impact.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.0

The writing contains a mix of simple and some complex sentence structures. However, there are frequent grammatical errors, such as 'I am reaching out you' (missing 'to'), 'I have started my course... since last month' (incorrect tense usage), and 'I am working in your company since last three years' (should be 'have been working'). Punctuation is also inconsistent, particularly with spacing around commas and semicolons. These errors do not completely impede communication, but they are frequent enough to lower the score.

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

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