Band 8.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 8.5 · Cambridge IELTS 20 · 2026-08-01

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 maps illustrate the changes to Beechwood Farm between 1950 and the present day.

Overall, the farm has become significantly more developed, with several new facilities added to attract tourists. While some original features have remained unchanged, much of the land has been converted for commercial and recreational purposes.

In 1950, there were only fruit trees in the western part of the farm, whereas a new farm shop has now been constructed nearby. In addition, the unpaved track has been upgraded into a road. The barn has been relocated to a site adjacent to the road. Furthermore, the area that was previously used for keeping sheep has been divided into two sections. The left half has been converted into a parking area and a campsite, allowing tourists to stay in tents, while the right half has been designated for solar panels to generate electricity. Moreover, the land near the road and the river has been developed into spacious holiday cottages, which were not present in 1950. However, the chicken area has remained unchanged throughout the period.

Overall, the most significant changes have taken place in the northern part of the farm, and the site has become far more attractive and suitable for tourists than it was in the past.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 8.5

The response effectively covers all key features of the maps. You have successfully identified the main trends, such as the transition from agricultural land to tourist-focused facilities. The comparison between 1950 and the present is clear, and you have highlighted significant changes like the addition of the farm shop, solar panels, and holiday cottages. The overview is well-placed and provides a clear summary of the transformation. To reach a higher band, ensure that all minor details are accurately placed; for instance, you mentioned the barn was relocated, but the visual evidence suggests it was replaced or expanded. Overall, the task is addressed comprehensively with a clear focus on the main features.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.5

The response is logically organized, with a clear introduction, a detailed body paragraph, and a concluding summary. The progression of ideas is smooth, moving from general observations to specific changes. You have used a good range of cohesive devices such as 'In addition', 'Furthermore', 'Moreover', and 'However' to link your points effectively. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate the overview from the supporting details. The referencing is clear, and the flow of information is easy to follow throughout the text. No significant issues with cohesion were noted.

Lexical Resource — Band 8.0

You have used a sufficient range of vocabulary to describe the changes, including terms like 'converted', 'designated', 'relocated', and 'spacious'. The language is precise and appropriate for a report on map changes. There is a good attempt to use less common vocabulary, such as 'recreational purposes' and 'adjacent to'. The word choices are accurate and contribute to the clarity of the report. There are no spelling or word-choice errors that impede communication. To improve further, you could incorporate more specific descriptive adjectives or varied verbs to describe the spatial changes.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.5

The response demonstrates a good variety of complex structures, such as the use of 'while' clauses and passive voice constructions (e.g., 'has been converted', 'were not present'). The majority of sentences are error-free, and your control over punctuation and tense usage is strong. You have successfully maintained the appropriate tense for describing past states (1950) and current states (present day). The grammatical accuracy is high, and the few structures used are handled with confidence. The writing is clear and professional, meeting the requirements for a high band score in this criterion.

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