Band 5.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 5.5 · IELTS General Essentials · 2026-08-09
IELTS Writing Task 1 question
You have enrolled in an evening course but you have found that you are too busy to continue and would like to take the course next term instead.
explain the situation and why you cannot continue the course
say what you would like to do about your studies
ask for advice about what you can do about the situation
Student answer (Band 5.5)
Dear Sir/Madam
I would like to inform you that,i have enrolled in and evening couse because of my working schedule i could not able attend the classes at the cuerrnt time rather than i can attend the couse next term.
Firstly, my current full time job time schedule almost in the evening time so that i could not participate the course in the late afternoon.
Secondly, i plan to take this course in the morning time and provide me more details about the course timings,fees structure,duration and any other online classes available. I would like to adjust my duty schedule accordingly.
Finally, could you please contribute any other options ,any seat available in the morning section so i can able to come on that time.If there is no seat present give the money back i can reserve the seat for next term.
I would appreciate for your prompt response for ths matter.
Yours sincerly
Manju
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 6.0 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 6.0 |
| Lexical Resource | 5.5 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 5.0 |
| Overall | 5.5 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.0
The response addresses all three bullet points of the task: explaining the situation, stating the desired outcome, and asking for advice. The tone is appropriate for a formal letter. However, the development of ideas is somewhat limited. For instance, the explanation for why you cannot attend is repetitive, and the request for advice is slightly confused by the mention of a refund. To improve, ensure each bullet point is clearly separated and developed with more precise language. While the task requirements are met, the lack of clarity in the request for a refund versus a transfer makes the communication slightly less effective than it could be.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.0
The letter uses paragraphing to separate ideas, which helps the reader follow the structure. The use of linking words like 'Firstly', 'Secondly', and 'Finally' provides a basic framework for the argument. However, the cohesion within sentences is often weak due to grammatical errors, such as the run-on sentence in the opening paragraph. The transition between the request for information and the request for a refund is abrupt and lacks a smooth logical flow. Improving the use of cohesive devices to connect ideas within paragraphs rather than just starting them would help achieve a higher band score.
Lexical Resource — Band 5.5
The vocabulary is generally adequate for the task, allowing the message to be understood. However, there are several instances of incorrect word choice and spelling errors, such as 'couse' instead of 'course', 'cuerrnt' instead of 'current', and 'duty schedule' instead of 'work schedule'. The range of vocabulary is limited and relies on basic phrasing. To reach a higher band, you should aim to use more precise collocations and ensure accurate spelling. For example, instead of 'give the money back', a more formal expression like 'request a refund' would be more appropriate for this context.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.0
The response contains frequent grammatical errors that occasionally impede readability. There are issues with subject-verb agreement and sentence structure, such as 'i could not able attend' and 'i plan to take this course in the morning time and provide me more details'. The use of punctuation is also inconsistent, particularly with the placement of commas and the capitalization of 'i'. While there is an attempt to use complex sentences, the control over these structures is weak. Focusing on basic sentence construction and proofreading for common errors like missing verbs or incorrect tense usage will significantly improve your score.
See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.
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