Band 5.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

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

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 illustration depicts how the one type of dessert called rain-shadow dessert formed.

Overall, the nine step cycle begins with winds which was approached by coast and ended with the dry winds reaching the inland areas. This is formed by diverse process such as formation of clouds, raining, then after dry air continues over mountains which will be discussed below.

The process starts with the wind approached the coast after that the wind was pushed upwards. The moist air rose and cooled then clouds formed. After the formation of clouds the rains fell towards windward side.

At step 6, the dry air continued over the mountain at leeward side. After that the dry air reached in inland areas where the rain- shadow dessert formed which again continued after some interval of time .

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 attempts to describe the process, the summary is underdeveloped and lacks sufficient detail regarding the specific stages shown in the diagram. The overview is somewhat vague, and the description of the steps is repetitive and lacks the necessary precision to fully explain the scientific process. To improve, ensure all stages of the diagram are clearly described and the response meets the length requirement to allow for a full development of the information provided.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 5.5

The response is organized into paragraphs, which helps the reader follow the sequence of events. However, the use of cohesive devices is somewhat mechanical and repetitive (e.g., 'After that', 'The process starts with'). The progression of ideas is clear, but the lack of depth in the description makes the overall flow feel disjointed. To improve, try using a wider variety of linking words and phrases to connect the stages of the process more naturally, and ensure that each paragraph has a clear focus that contributes to the overall summary.

Lexical Resource — Band 5.0

The vocabulary is generally adequate for the task but lacks the precision required for a higher band. There are noticeable errors in word choice, such as 'dessert' instead of 'desert' and 'approached by coast' instead of 'approaching the coast'. The range of vocabulary is limited, relying on basic terms to describe a scientific process. To improve, focus on using more precise terminology related to geography and meteorology, and pay closer attention to spelling and correct word forms to ensure your writing is more professional and accurate.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.0

The response contains a mix of simple and complex sentence structures, but there are frequent grammatical errors that occasionally impede clarity. Examples include 'winds which was approached' (subject-verb agreement) and 'rain-shadow dessert formed' (missing articles). Tense usage is also inconsistent, shifting between present and past unnecessarily. To improve, focus on subject-verb agreement, consistent tense usage, and the correct application of articles. Proofreading for basic grammatical slips will help increase the accuracy of your sentences and make your writing more polished.

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

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