Band 8.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 8.0 · Cambridge IELTS 19 · 2026-09-23

IELTS Writing Task 1 question

Five months ago, you started renting an apartment on a six-month agreement. You now wish to stay in the apartment for longer than the six months you originally agreed with the owner.

Write a letter to the owner of your apartment. In your letter

• say how long you now want to rent the apartment for
• explain why your plans have changed
• tell the owner about a problem in the apartment

You do NOT need to write any addresses.

Begin your letter as follows:

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

Student answer (Band 8.0)

Dear Sir or Madam,

I hope you are doing well. I am writing to ask if I could extend my rental agreement for my apartment. Instead of moving out after the current six-month agreement ends, I would like to stay for another twelve months.

When I first rented the apartment, I expected to move to another city for work after six months. However, my employer has recently offered me a permanent position here, so I have decided to remain in the city. Since I am very comfortable in the apartment and enjoy the neighbourhood, I would prefer to continue living here.

I would also like to inform you about a problem in the apartment. Over the past two weeks, the kitchen sink has been leaking, and water is collecting underneath it. I am concerned that this may cause further damage if it is not repaired soon. I would appreciate it if you could arrange for someone to fix it at your earliest convenience.

Thank you for considering my request. I hope you will allow me to extend my tenancy, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Yours faithfully,

John Smith

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response: Band 8.0

The candidate successfully addresses all three bullet points required by the prompt in a well-developed and clear manner. First, the writer specifies the desired extension period by stating, 'I would like to stay for another twelve months.' Second, the explanation for the changed plans is clearly articulated through the employer offering a permanent position. Finally, the problem in the apartment is effectively communicated by describing a leaking kitchen sink. The tone is appropriate for a formal letter to a landlord, and the purpose of the communication is entirely clear throughout. The response fully satisfies all requirements of Task Achievement at a high standard, earning a well-deserved band 8.0.

Coherence and Cohesion: Band 8.0

The letter exhibits clear logical organisation and natural progression from start to finish. Each paragraph serves a distinct purpose corresponding to the bullet points in the prompt, making the structure transparent and easy to follow. Cohesive devices are used naturally and effectively, such as 'Instead of moving out', 'However', and 'Over the past two weeks', which guide the reader smoothly through the narrative and explanations. Paragraphing is managed skilfully and appropriately, ensuring the text flows logically. Referencing and substitution are handled with precision throughout.

Lexical Resource: Band 7.0

The candidate demonstrates a sufficient and appropriate range of vocabulary for a general correspondence task. Words and phrases such as 'extend my rental agreement', 'permanent position', and 'at your earliest convenience' showcase a good command of functional, semi-formal language. Collocations are natural, and there are no noticeable spelling or word-choice errors. While the vocabulary is not excessively complex or poetic, it is entirely apt, precise, and fully meets the requirements for communication without any impedance to the reader. This demonstrates a solid control of lexical resource.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 8.0

The writing features an effective mix of simple and complex sentence structures, showing good control of grammar and punctuation. Examples of complex structures include conditional or participial links and subordinate clauses such as 'When I first rented the apartment, I expected to move...' and 'I am concerned that this may cause further damage if it is not repaired soon.' The majority of sentences are error-free, and punctuation is handled correctly throughout. Grammatical accuracy is high, with only very occasional slips, reflecting strong overall control suitable for this band level.

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