Band 5.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 5.0 · Cambridge IELTS 19 · 2026-08-21
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 5.0)
Sir,
I am writing to request a reduction in working hours. I am a student of international affairs and attend university in the morning, so I have no more time. Please reduce my working hours, allow me to continue my further studies, and complete my tasks or assignments. I am an only child of my parents.
Secondly, I am available at 3 pm, so you can give chance; I will come for the second shift. I hope that you will understand me
On the other hand, basically I am a student to take care of our parents
I live rent apartment, me responsible person.
Finally, if you agree, so plz support me and be flexible with working hours
I hope that you will understand my problem and continue my studies with jobs.
Your obediently,
Arqam awan
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 5.0 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 5.0 |
| Lexical Resource | 5.0 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 5.0 |
| Overall | 5.0 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.0
The response fails to meet the minimum word count requirement of 150 words, which significantly impacts the task achievement score. While you have attempted to address the three bullet points, the development of these ideas is very limited. For instance, the benefit to the employer is not clearly explained; you mention wanting to study but do not articulate how your education in international affairs would add value to the company. The tone is also inconsistent for a formal letter to a boss, appearing somewhat informal and disjointed. To improve, ensure you expand on each requirement with specific details and maintain a professional, persuasive tone throughout.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 5.0
The letter lacks a clear logical progression. While there is some attempt at paragraphing, the transitions between ideas are abrupt and sometimes confusing, such as the sudden shift to personal details about being an only child or living in a rented apartment, which are not relevant to the request. Cohesive devices are used sparingly and often incorrectly, such as the misuse of 'On the other hand' and 'Finally'. The overall structure feels fragmented rather than a cohesive piece of professional correspondence. Using clearer linking words and ensuring each paragraph has a singular, focused purpose would greatly improve the flow.
Lexical Resource — Band 5.0
The vocabulary is quite basic and repetitive, relying on simple sentence structures and limited word choices. There are several instances of awkward phrasing and incorrect word usage, such as 'give chance' instead of 'give me a chance' and 'continue my studies with jobs'. The vocabulary is not sufficiently varied to express your request in a professional manner. To reach a higher band, you should incorporate more precise, formal vocabulary related to workplace communication and academic pursuits, and focus on correct collocations to ensure your meaning is conveyed clearly and professionally.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.0
The response contains frequent grammatical errors that occasionally impede communication. There are issues with sentence fragments (e.g., 'I live rent apartment, me responsible person'), subject-verb agreement, and missing articles. The range of grammatical structures is very limited, consisting mostly of simple sentences. Complex structures are attempted but are generally inaccurate or poorly constructed. Punctuation is also inconsistent, particularly with the use of commas and the informal sign-off. Focusing on basic sentence construction, ensuring every sentence has a clear subject and verb, and proofreading for common errors would be a beneficial next step.
See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.
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