Band 5.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 5.5 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-08-25

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 5.5)

the diagram illustrates the primary formation of the rain shadow desert. overall, the formation is well elaborated from start to the final product of the entire process.

firstly, winds approach the coast just slightly above the sea. thereafter, the winds are pushed upwards unlike the dry winds which are pushed downwards in the later stage. moist air rises and cools as it goes further in the sky to form clouds which in turn falls as rain.

Additionally, dry air continues over the mountain. this happens so as to continue the process and assist dry winds reach the inland areas, all this is vital because it is what results into the rain shadow desert. the entire process is possible because of the natural amenities around. for instance, the mountain, sea, wind and the thousands of kilometers work hand in hand to produce the perfect temperature and in turn achieve the expected outcome.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.0

The response provides a basic overview of the process, but it lacks the necessary detail and precision required for an Academic Task 1 report. While it mentions the wind, moisture, and the mountain, it fails to clearly describe the sequence of events as depicted in the diagram, such as the specific transition from the windward side to the leeward side. The description is somewhat vague, and the inclusion of subjective commentary like 'natural amenities' is inappropriate for a technical summary. To improve, focus on describing the physical changes in the air mass as it moves across the mountain, rather than providing a general narrative.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 5.5

The essay is organised into paragraphs, which is a positive step. However, the logical progression is weak. The use of cohesive devices is somewhat mechanical and occasionally misused, such as 'this happens so as to continue the process'. The referencing is sometimes unclear, making it difficult for the reader to follow the causal links between the different stages of the desert formation. Improving the use of linking words to show cause and effect (e.g., 'consequently', 'as a result', 'subsequently') would help the flow of the information significantly.

Lexical Resource — Band 5.0

The vocabulary is limited and somewhat repetitive. Phrases like 'natural amenities' are used incorrectly in this context, as they usually refer to human-made or recreational features rather than geographical elements. There is a lack of precise, topic-specific terminology (e.g., 'leeward side', 'precipitation', 'orographic lift'). While the meaning is generally conveyed, the lack of variety and the misuse of certain terms prevent the response from reaching a higher band. Expanding your vocabulary to include more academic and subject-specific terms will improve your score.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.5

The response contains a mix of simple and some complex sentence structures, but there are frequent errors in grammar and punctuation. For example, the lack of capitalisation at the start of sentences and the misuse of prepositions ('in the sky', 'results into') are noticeable. While these errors do not completely impede communication, they occur frequently enough to distract the reader. To improve, focus on sentence construction, ensuring that subjects and verbs agree and that punctuation is used correctly to separate distinct ideas.

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

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