Band 8.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 8.0 · Cambridge IELTS 19 · 2026-08-04

IELTS Writing Task 1 question

 

You started in your present job two years ago. You now feel it is important for your career development to move to a different department in the same company.

Write a letter to your manager. In your letter

  • say what you have learned in your present job
  • suggest how the company would benefit from moving you to a different department
  • explain why you do not wish to leave the company

You do NOT need to write any addresses.

Begin your letter as follows:

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

Student answer (Band 8.0)

Dear Mr. John,

I am writing to formally request a transfer to another department within the company. After working in my currently role from the past two years, I believe that moving to a different department would support my professional development and allow me to contribute more effectively to the organization.

During the last two years, I have gained valuable experience in managing daily operations, working under pressure, and communicating effectively with both colleagues and customers. In addition, I have improved my problem-solving, leadership, and time-management skills. These experiences have prepared me to take on greater responsibilities in a different role.

I believe the company would also benefit from this transfer because my knowledge of the organization's policies and work procedures would enable me to adapt quickly to a new department. Furthermore, my experience of working with different teams would help me cooperate effectively with new colleagues and contribute to achieving the department's goals.

Although I wish to change departments, I have no intention of leaving the company. I truly enjoy working here because of the supportive work environment, opportunities for growth, and positive relationship I have built with my colleagues. Therefore, I would like to continue my career within the organization while taking on new challenges.

I would be grateful if you could consider my request. I look forward to discussing this matter with you at your convenience.

Yours sincerely,

Ramneet Kaur

AI examiner evaluation

CriterionBand
Task Achievement / Task Response8.0
Coherence and Cohesion8.0
Lexical Resource7.5
Grammatical Range and Accuracy7.5
Overall8.0

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 8.0

The response fully addresses all three bullet points of the prompt. You clearly outline the skills gained in your current role, explain the benefits to the company of your transfer, and provide a convincing rationale for remaining with the organization. The tone is consistently professional and appropriate for a formal letter to a manager. The ideas are well-developed and the purpose of the letter is clear from the outset. You have successfully met all the requirements of the task.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.0

The letter is logically organized with a clear introduction, body paragraphs addressing each prompt requirement, and a professional closing. Each paragraph has a clear central topic, and the progression of ideas is smooth. You use a variety of cohesive devices effectively, such as 'In addition,' 'Furthermore,' and 'Although,' which help to connect your points naturally. The paragraphing is appropriate and contributes to the overall readability of the letter.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.5

You demonstrate a good range of vocabulary appropriate for a professional context, such as 'formally request,' 'professional development,' and 'contribute effectively.' The language is natural and precise. While the vocabulary is accurate and fits the task well, it could be elevated slightly to reach the highest band by incorporating more sophisticated collocations or less common professional terminology. However, the current level is more than sufficient for a clear and effective communication.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The grammar is generally strong, with a good mix of simple and complex sentence structures. Most sentences are error-free. There is a minor error in the first paragraph: 'in my currently role' should be 'in my current role.' Aside from this, the control of punctuation and sentence construction is excellent. The use of complex structures, such as 'I would be grateful if you could consider my request,' is handled accurately and adds to the formal tone of the letter.

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

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