Band 8.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 8.0 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-08-13

IELTS Writing Task 1 question

The plans below show a college cafe before it was redesigned and how it looks now.

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

The plans below show a college cafe before it was redesigned and how it looks now.

Student answer (Band 8.0)

The map illustrates the changes made to a university café following its recent renovation.

Overall, the layout has been modernized to accommodate more seating and a wider variety of dining options, with several dedicated food stations replacing the older, simpler setup.

In the original design, the central space was dominated by a large dining area filled with tables and chairs. The northern section contained two private dining rooms for staff, while the kitchen and a combined food and drinks counter were situated in the north-west corner. Toilets were located in the south-east corner, directly opposite a single dustbin.

Following the reconstruction, the overall seating area has been expanded, and an outdoor dining area featuring a barbecue corner has been introduced. The former staff dining rooms have been replaced by a takeaway food counter and a coffee bar along the northern wall. In addition, the original counter and kitchen area have been reconfigured into a dedicated hot meals section with a kitchen positioned behind it. Finally, the single dustbin has been upgraded to a set of recycling bins on the western side, while a new salad bar has been installed directly opposite.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 8.0

The response is excellent and fully addresses all requirements of the task. You have successfully identified the main features of the cafe before and after the renovation, such as the expansion of the seating area, the introduction of new food stations, and the addition of outdoor facilities. The comparison between the two layouts is clear and logical. You have provided a concise overview and supported it with specific details from the plans, ensuring that all key changes are highlighted. There are no omissions, and the information is presented in a way that is easy for the reader to follow, demonstrating a clear understanding of the visual data provided.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

Your writing is well-organized and flows logically. The use of paragraphing is effective, with a clear introduction, an overview, and two body paragraphs that contrast the original and current layouts. You use cohesive devices such as 'In the original design,' 'Following the reconstruction,' and 'In addition' to guide the reader through the changes smoothly. The progression of ideas is natural, moving from the general layout to specific functional areas. The referencing is precise, and the structure of the response is coherent throughout, making it very easy to read and understand.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.5

You demonstrate a strong command of vocabulary, using precise and varied language to describe the changes. Terms such as 'modernized,' 'reconfigured,' 'dedicated,' and 'introduced' are used accurately and in the correct context. You avoid repetition and show a good ability to use topic-specific vocabulary related to floor plans and renovations. The language is natural and sophisticated, which contributes to the overall clarity and professional tone of the report. There are no noticeable errors in word choice or collocation, and the vocabulary is well-suited to the academic nature of the task.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.0

Your grammar is highly accurate, with a wide range of complex structures used effectively. You successfully employ passive voice constructions, such as 'was dominated by' and 'have been replaced,' which are appropriate for describing processes and changes. Sentence structures are varied, and punctuation is used correctly throughout. The majority of your sentences are error-free, and there is a high level of control over tense usage, particularly when contrasting the past state with the present. The writing is fluent and demonstrates a high degree of grammatical flexibility, which is characteristic of a high-band response.

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