Band 8.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 8.0 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-09-04

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 The former staff dining rooms have been replaced by a takeaway food counter and a coffee bar along the northern wall.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 outdoor dining, and the reconfiguration of the food service counters. The comparison between the two plans is clear and logical. You have provided a well-developed overview that highlights the modernization of the space, which is a key requirement for a high band score. The information is accurate, and the progression from the original layout to the new one is easy to follow, ensuring the reader understands the transformation completely.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.0

The response is logically organized, with a clear introduction, an overview, and two body paragraphs that contrast the 'before' and 'after' states. The use of cohesive devices such as 'In the original design,' 'Following the reconstruction,' 'In addition,' and 'Finally' is effective and natural, guiding the reader through the changes without being repetitive. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate the two distinct timeframes, which helps in maintaining a clear flow of information. The transition between the description of the old layout and the new one is seamless, demonstrating a high level of control over the structure of the report.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.5

You have used a wide range of vocabulary appropriate for describing maps and layouts. Phrases such as 'dominated by,' 'reconfigured into,' 'dedicated food stations,' and 'introduced' show a good level of precision. The language is natural and sophisticated, fitting the academic tone required for this task. There are no noticeable errors in word choice or collocation, and the vocabulary used is varied enough to avoid repetition. You have demonstrated the ability to use specific terminology to describe architectural or spatial changes effectively, which is a hallmark of a high-scoring response.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.0

The response exhibits a high level of grammatical accuracy with a variety of complex structures. You have used passive voice effectively to describe the changes (e.g., 'have been replaced,' 'have been reconfigured,' 'has been installed'), which is highly appropriate for this type of task. Sentence structures are varied, and there are no significant errors in punctuation or grammar. The majority of your sentences are error-free, and the few complex structures used are handled with confidence. The control over tense usage—shifting between the past for the original state and present perfect for the changes—is precise and accurate.

See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.

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