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 process illustrates how a specific type of desert also know as rain shadow desert is formed.
Overall, there are seven stage by which rain shadow desert is being formed, starts with wind approach towards mountain and end with dry winds reach inland areas with formation of cloud in middle to this process.
In the first stage, winds coming above the sea approach towards coast . At the second stage, wind is being pushed upwards towards the top of the mountain. After then, wind absorbs the moist and get cool and rises. However, cold air gets converted into clouds and goes in the windward Side.
In the fifth step, Rain falls happens on the top of the mountain. Furthermore, Dry air continues over mountain in the leeward side. In general, dry winds reach inland areas here is the place named rain shadow desert
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 5.0 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 5.0 |
| Lexical Resource | 5.0 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 5.0 |
| Overall | 5.0 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.0
The response provides a basic overview of the process involved in the formation of rain-shadow deserts but lacks specific details and clarity. For example, phrases like 'seven stage' and 'dry winds reach inland areas here is the place named rain shadow desert' are unclear and detract from overall comprehension. Additionally, it fails to adequately summarize the main features of the diagram, missing comparisons or explanations of how each stage interrelates. This results in an incomplete response, impacting the task achievement score.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 5.0
The coherence of the response is reduced due to unclear phrasing and structure. For instance, the transition between stages is poorly executed; 'After then, wind absorbs the moist' lacks fluidity and clarity. Moreover, the introduction and conclusion are not effectively linked to the main content, causing disjointedness. Sentence connections could be improved if cohesive devices like 'Firstly,' 'Next,' and 'Finally' were employed to clarify the sequence of events, enhancing overall coherence.
Lexical Resource — Band 5.0
The vocabulary used is limited and occasionally imprecise, which may hinder full understanding. Words like 'dry winds' and 'moist' are over-simplified. More appropriate alternatives like 'arid conditions' and 'humid air' would enhance lexical variety and precision. Additionally, phrases such as 'here is the place named rain shadow desert' lack clarity and could be expressed more elegantly as 'referred to as a rain-shadow desert.' The lack of variety and occasional inaccuracies affects the lexical resource score.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.0
The grammatical range in the response is somewhat limited, with mostly simple sentence structures and a few complex ones that are not executed well. For example, the phrase 'Rain falls happens on the top' is awkward and incorrect. Additionally, there are issues with noun-verb agreement and syntax, such as 'is being formed' which should be simplified. These errors occasionally interfere with comprehension, and improving grammatical accuracy and sentence variety could significantly enhance the score.
Overall feedback
You have demonstrated a basic understanding of the process of rain-shadow desert formation, which is a good starting point. However, improvements are necessary in clarity and detail. Focus on linking ideas more carefully, ensuring that each stage clearly connects to the next. Also, diversifying your vocabulary will greatly enhance the quality of your writing. Consider practicing sentence structure variations to improve grammatical range and accuracy. Regularly review proper phrasing and cohesion techniques to provide a clearer overall picture.
See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.
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