Band 5.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 5.0 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-08-22

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

The given process chart shows the formation of rain shadow desserts during the first step, wind approach the coast then in second step, winds are pushed upwards then in third step,moist air rises and cooled down then the clouds are formed then rain falls and add moisture to the air .

Then in sixth step dry air continues to blow over mountain then dry winds reach instant areas.

To conclude this seven step process chart shows the formation of rain shadow deserts in which rain plays an important role.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 4.0

The response fails to meet the minimum word count requirement of 150 words, reaching only 107 words. This significantly impacts the ability to fully develop the response. While the student identifies the main features of the diagram, the description is overly simplistic and lacks the necessary detail and comparison required for an Academic Task 1 report. The process is described in a fragmented, list-like manner rather than a cohesive summary. To improve, the student must provide a more thorough explanation of the stages and ensure the length requirement is met to allow for a full exploration of the data provided.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 5.0

The response lacks effective paragraphing and logical progression. The text is essentially a series of short, repetitive sentences linked by basic connectors like 'then' and 'in the first step'. There is no clear introduction or overview, and the conclusion is very brief. The lack of varied cohesive devices makes the writing feel mechanical and disjointed. To achieve a higher band, the student should group related stages into clear paragraphs and use a wider range of linking words (e.g., 'subsequently', 'as a result', 'consequently') to create a smoother flow between ideas.

Lexical Resource — Band 5.0

The vocabulary is quite limited and repetitive. Words such as 'step', 'wind', and 'formation' are used repeatedly without variation. There are also spelling errors, such as 'desserts' instead of 'deserts' and 'instant' instead of 'inland'. The range of vocabulary is insufficient to demonstrate the flexibility required for higher bands. To improve, the student should focus on using more precise terminology related to geography and processes, and avoid repeating the same basic nouns and verbs throughout the text.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.0

The grammatical range is very limited, consisting almost entirely of simple sentence structures. There is a lack of complex sentences, which are necessary for describing processes effectively. Several errors in subject-verb agreement and punctuation are present, such as 'wind approach' (should be 'winds approach') and missing commas after introductory phrases. The frequent use of 'then' to start sentences creates a repetitive and simplistic rhythm. To improve, the student should practice using complex structures, such as relative clauses or passive voice, which are essential for describing scientific or natural processes.

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

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