Band 8.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 8.5 · Cambridge IELTS 20 · 2026-07-24

IELTS Writing Task 1 question

The plans below show the site of a farm in 1950 and the same site today.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.



 

Student answer (Band 8.5)

The plans illustrate the changes that have taken place at Beechwood Farm between 1950 and the present day.

Overall, the farm has changed significantly over the years. While the areas used for growing fruit trees, soft fruits, and vegetables have remained the same, several new facilities have been added, making the farm more suitable for tourism and modern use.

In 1950, the farm mainly focused on agriculture. Fruit trees, soft fruits, and vegetables were grown in the western part of the site, while a large area in the northeast was used for keeping sheep. There was also a barn, a farmhouse, and an area for chickens. Tracks connected different parts of the farm to the main road.

Today, many changes can be seen. The sheep field has been replaced by solar panels, a camping field, and two car parks. A farm shop has been built near the entrance, while the old barn has been converted into holiday cottages. In addition, a new barn has been constructed in the centre of the farm, and the former tracks have been upgraded into roads. However, the farmhouse, the chicken area, and the land used for growing crops have remained unchanged.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 8.5

The response effectively covers all requirements of the task. You have provided a clear overview of the significant changes and successfully highlighted the main features of both the 1950 and current plans. The comparison between the two time periods is logical and well-supported by specific details, such as the conversion of the barn into cottages and the replacement of the sheep field with solar panels. The information is accurate and relevant, and the structure allows for a clear comparison of the site's evolution. To reach a higher band, ensure that you consistently highlight the most significant trends rather than just listing features.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.5

The response is well-organized with a clear logical progression. You have used paragraphing effectively to separate the overview from the detailed descriptions of the past and present. Cohesive devices such as 'while', 'in addition', and 'however' are used appropriately to link ideas and contrast the two time periods. The flow of information is smooth, and the referencing is clear throughout the text. The structure is coherent, making the information easy to follow for the reader.

Lexical Resource — Band 8.0

You have used a sufficient range of vocabulary to describe the changes, such as 'converted', 'upgraded', 'constructed', and 'remained unchanged'. The word choices are precise and appropriate for the context of describing maps and plans. There are no spelling errors, and the vocabulary is used naturally. To improve further, you could incorporate more sophisticated collocations or synonyms to describe the spatial layout or the nature of the developments, which would demonstrate a wider and more flexible range of lexical items.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.5

The response demonstrates a good command of grammatical structures. You have used a mix of simple and complex sentences effectively, such as the use of subordinate clauses in the overview and the description of the site. The verb tenses are handled correctly, shifting appropriately between the past tense for the 1950 description and the present perfect for the changes that have occurred. Punctuation is accurate, and there are no significant errors that impede communication. The writing is clear and demonstrates a high level of control.

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