Band 8.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 8.5 · IELTS Momentum Workout · 2026-08-29

IELTS Writing Task 1 question

The diagram below shows a town square and surrounding area in 2014 and the plans for development of the area to be completed by 2020. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

Student answer (Band 8.5)

AI Mode conversationYou sent: 1 imageThe two maps illustrate the architectural and commercial transformation of a town square and its surrounding area from 2014 to the completed redevelopment layout in 2020.Overall, the area underwent a significant shift toward commercialization and pedestrian utility. Most large institutional and specialized dining buildings were replaced by multiple smaller retail shops, while the interior of the square was upgraded with more recreational facilities.Regarding the surrounding structures, the fish market on the northwestern side was converted into a supermarket by 2020, while the adjacent sweet stall at the top right remained unchanged. On the western side, the historic museum was transformed into a local artist gallery, and the library below it was replaced by several small shops. Similarly, the administrative buildings on the eastern perimeter and the fish restaurant and bar on the southern boundary were all entirely replaced by a series of individual retail units.Inside the central square, the fountain was preserved in its original central location. However, the oval bandstand to its east was demolished. In its place and around the square, several new amenities were introduced, including two large rectangular plant beds to the north, a children's playground to the east of the fountain, and a covered seating zone to the south. Finally, the southern access road was restricted, turning it into a designated pedestrian area only.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 8.5

The response is excellent and fully addresses all requirements of the task. You have successfully identified the main features of the town square development, including the transition from institutional buildings to retail units and the addition of recreational facilities. The comparison between 2014 and 2020 is clear, and the overview effectively captures the essence of the transformation. You have managed to report on both the surrounding structures and the internal square layout with precision, ensuring no significant details were overlooked. The inclusion of specific changes, such as the conversion of the fish market and the restriction of the southern access road, demonstrates a high level of analytical skill.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.5

The response is logically organized, with a clear progression from an overview to specific details of the surrounding area, and finally to the internal square. Paragraphing is used effectively to separate these distinct sections. Cohesive devices such as 'Regarding the surrounding structures', 'Similarly', and 'In its place' are used naturally to guide the reader through the information. The flow of ideas is smooth, and the relationship between the two time periods is consistently maintained throughout the text. There is no evidence of mechanical or repetitive use of linking words, making the writing very easy to follow.

Lexical Resource — Band 8.5

You have demonstrated a wide and sophisticated range of vocabulary, which is highly appropriate for an academic report. Phrases such as 'architectural and commercial transformation', 'pedestrian utility', and 'administrative buildings on the eastern perimeter' show a high level of lexical control. The use of precise verbs like 'demolished', 'preserved', and 'restricted' adds clarity and professional tone to the description. There are no noticeable errors in word choice or collocation, and the vocabulary is used with natural flexibility throughout the response.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.5

The writing displays a wide range of complex grammatical structures with full flexibility and accuracy. You have used a variety of sentence types, including passive constructions ('was converted', 'were all entirely replaced') and complex sentences that effectively link related information. Punctuation is accurate, and there are no grammatical errors that impede communication. The control over tense and aspect is consistent, accurately reflecting the timeline of the development. The response is essentially error-free, demonstrating a high level of grammatical competence.

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