Band 8.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 8.0 · Cambridge IELTS 20 · 2026-08-21
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 8.0)
The plans illustrate the changes that have taken place at Beechwood Farm between 1950 and the present day.
Overall, the site has undergone considerable development, particularly in the northern and eastern areas. The former sheep-grazing area has been replaced by recreational and commercial facilities, while the original track system has largely been converted into roads. In contrast, the areas used for growing soft fruits and vegetables have remained unchanged.
In 1950, the northern part of the farm was mainly occupied by a large area for sheep. A track ran diagonally through the site, connecting the main road in the north-west with the buildings in the south-east. Fruit trees were located in the north-western section, while soft fruits and vegetables were cultivated in two adjacent areas in the centre of the farm. In the south-eastern corner, there was a barn, a farmhouse and an area for chickens.
Today, the former sheep-grazing area has been substantially redeveloped. A camping field has been introduced in the northern section, together with parking areas and solar panels in the north-east. The original tracks have been replaced by roads, and a farm shop has been added near the fruit trees. The soft-fruit and vegetable-growing areas have remained unchanged. In the south-east, holiday cottages have been added and the barn has been relocated, while the farmhouse and chicken area have remained in approximately the same positions.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 8.0 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 7.5 |
| Lexical Resource | 8.0 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 8.0 |
| Overall | 8.0 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 8.0
The response is excellent and fully addresses all parts of the task. You have provided a clear overview of the main trends, noting the shift from agricultural to commercial and recreational use, while correctly identifying features that remained unchanged. The comparison between 1950 and the present day is well-structured, and you have successfully selected and reported the key features of the site. The information is accurate, and the development of ideas is logical and comprehensive, meeting all the requirements for a high band score.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5
The response is logically organized, with a clear progression from an introduction and overview to detailed descriptions of the past and present states. Paragraphing is used effectively to separate the two time periods, which helps the reader follow the changes easily. You have used a good range of cohesive devices, such as 'In contrast', 'In the south-eastern corner', and 'while', which connect ideas smoothly. The flow of information is natural and coherent throughout the entire report.
Lexical Resource — Band 8.0
You have demonstrated a wide and precise range of vocabulary appropriate for describing maps and changes. Phrases such as 'undergone considerable development', 'substantially redeveloped', and 'cultivated' show a sophisticated command of language. The use of terminology is accurate and contextually relevant, such as 'recreational and commercial facilities' and 'diagonally'. There are no noticeable errors in word choice or spelling, and the vocabulary is used with a high degree of flexibility and naturalness.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.0
The response displays a wide range of grammatical structures, including complex sentences and passive voice constructions, such as 'The former sheep-grazing area has been replaced' and 'The original tracks have been replaced by roads'. These structures are used accurately and with full control. Punctuation is used correctly throughout, and there are no grammatical errors that impede communication. The majority of sentences are error-free, reflecting a high level of grammatical accuracy.
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