Band 5.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 5.5 · Cambridge IELTS 19 · 2026-08-29

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,

Hope you are fine. I write this letter for reducing my working hours.

Last friday, I start my collage again for studies. Now i'm strugling between my work and studies. I think if i get a little break in my work hours that would be good for me.

I think if i get a short break in my working hours that help me to cover my course. I give five hours a day for my job, until i cover my course preperation. In this if thecompany needs extra time, I do over time as well but in late night, work from home.

I'm doing my Master's in business administration. I think it also help me in my work, and this is good for our company as well. I'm working in this company last five years, and i do great job with my heart and soul. I'm dedicated for my work, also if i learn something new and advanced. Its also good for the company.

Best Regards,

Hurera Imran

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.0

The letter addresses all three bullet points of the prompt: the reason for the request, the proposed hours, and the benefits to the employer. However, the development of these points is somewhat limited. While you mention your Master's degree, the explanation of how it benefits the company is a bit vague. The proposal regarding your working hours is also slightly confusing, as you mention working five hours a day but then suggest working overtime late at night. To improve, ensure your proposal is clear and concrete so your employer can easily understand the new arrangement. The tone is generally appropriate for a formal letter, though it could be more professional.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.0

The letter follows a logical structure, moving from the purpose of the letter to the specific request and finally the benefits. However, the use of cohesive devices is quite limited and sometimes mechanical. For example, the transition between sentences is often abrupt, and the paragraphing is not fully utilized to separate distinct ideas. Using more varied linking words such as 'consequently,' 'furthermore,' or 'in addition' would help the flow of your writing. Additionally, some sentences feel disconnected, which hinders the overall progression of your argument.

Lexical Resource — Band 5.5

The vocabulary is adequate for the task but lacks variety and precision. You rely on simple, repetitive phrasing such as 'I think' and 'good for.' There are also some errors in word choice and spelling, such as 'collage' instead of 'college' and 'strugling' instead of 'struggling.' To reach a higher band, try to incorporate more sophisticated vocabulary related to professional settings, such as 'professional development,' 'academic pursuits,' or 'mutually beneficial.' The current range is sufficient to convey your meaning, but it does not demonstrate the flexibility required for higher scores.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.0

There are frequent grammatical errors throughout the text, including issues with verb tenses ('I start my collage' instead of 'I started my college'), subject-verb agreement, and article usage. The sentence structures are mostly simple, with limited attempts at complex sentences. Punctuation is also inconsistent, particularly with the use of lowercase 'i' and missing commas. While the meaning remains clear despite these errors, the lack of control over basic grammar and the limited range of structures prevent a higher score. Focusing on consistent verb tenses and proper sentence construction will significantly improve your writing.

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

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