Band 5.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 5.0 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-08-20

IELTS Writing Task 1 question

The diagram below shows how one type of desert, known as a rain-shadow desert, is formed.

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

The formation of rain-shadow deserts

Student answer (Band 5.0)

The process diagram illustrates how one type of desert, known as a rain- shadow desert, is formed. this seven steps process formed on the mountain

Overall, the formation of rain-shadow desert process is linier. The process contains mainly seven stages commencing with the winds approach coast and end by dry wind reach inland areas.

At first, wind approach coast processed in winds pushed upwards. Then, moist air rose and cools to windward side as a result, clouds formed. Next, rain falls thought clouds.

After that, dry air continued over mountain at leeward side that use in a different purpose of the remote areas. Then, dry wind reached inland areas and formed rain- shadow dessert. This step mainly occurs on thousands of kilometres. However, this started under the sea and then clou

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.0

The response fails to meet the minimum word count requirement of 150 words, which significantly impacts the task achievement score. While the student identifies the main stages of the rain-shadow desert formation, the description is underdeveloped and lacks the necessary detail to fully explain the process. The conclusion is incomplete, cutting off mid-sentence, which prevents a clear summary of the information. To improve, the student must ensure all stages are described with sufficient detail and that the response meets the length requirement to allow for a full explanation of the diagram.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 5.5

The essay attempts to use cohesive devices such as 'At first', 'Then', and 'After that', but these are often used mechanically. The paragraphing is inconsistent, and the logical flow is disrupted by the incomplete nature of the final sentence. The overall structure is present but lacks the sophistication required for higher bands. The progression of ideas is somewhat disjointed, particularly in the transition between the description of the windward and leeward sides. Improving the use of linking phrases and ensuring a complete, logical conclusion would significantly enhance the coherence of the response.

Lexical Resource — Band 5.0

The vocabulary is limited and repetitive, relying heavily on basic terms like 'wind', 'process', and 'formed'. There are noticeable errors in word choice and spelling, such as 'linier' instead of 'linear' and 'dessert' instead of 'desert'. The range of vocabulary is insufficient to describe the scientific process in a precise or academic manner. To improve, the student should focus on learning topic-specific terminology related to geography and meteorology, such as 'prevailing winds', 'precipitation', 'arid', and 'topography', while also paying closer attention to accurate spelling.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.0

The response contains frequent grammatical errors, including issues with subject-verb agreement ('wind approach coast'), tense consistency, and sentence structure. Many sentences are fragmented or lack proper punctuation. There is a limited range of grammatical structures, with a heavy reliance on simple sentences. Complex structures are attempted but are often faulty, such as 'this seven steps process formed on the mountain'. To improve, the student needs to focus on basic sentence construction, correct verb tenses, and the proper use of articles and prepositions to ensure clarity and accuracy.

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

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