Band 5.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 5.5 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-09-05

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 illustration shows how the formation of rain-shadow desert occurs.

Overall, the process occurs over a large geographical area before these deserts are formed; several other geographical factors such as mountains and coastal winds are also involved.

Foremost, the winds forming above the sea approach the coast. As it reaches the land it is met with tall mountains and climbs upwards. As the air moves further above sea level, the humid air is cooled down due to low temperature on the windward side of the mountain.

However, the dry air which did not form into clouds moves to the other side crossing the summit. It reaches the leeward side and travels downward. The direction of these dry winds is towards inland regions. These dry winds travelling inwards form rain-shadow deserts.

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 ability to fully develop the description of the process. While the main features of the rain-shadow effect are identified—such as the movement of air, the cooling process on the windward side, and the resulting dry conditions on the leeward side—the explanation lacks the necessary detail and depth expected for an Academic Task 1 response. The summary is too brief, and the lack of length prevents a comprehensive overview of the stages shown in the diagram. To improve, you must expand on the descriptions of each stage, ensuring all key features are elaborated upon to meet the length requirement.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.0

The response is logically organized, with a clear introduction, an overview, and a sequential description of the process. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate the different stages of the formation. Cohesive devices such as 'Foremost', 'However', and 'As' are used to link ideas, though the transitions are somewhat basic. The progression of information is clear, moving logically from the sea to the windward side and finally to the leeward side. To reach a higher band, you should aim for a wider variety of cohesive devices and ensure that the flow between sentences is more sophisticated and less mechanical.

Lexical Resource — Band 5.5

The vocabulary used is generally adequate for the task, with terms like 'geographical area', 'windward side', and 'leeward side' being used correctly. However, the range is somewhat limited, and there is a reliance on simple phrasing. The expression 'winds forming above the sea' is slightly imprecise. To improve, incorporate more precise scientific or descriptive vocabulary related to meteorological processes, such as 'moisture-laden air', 'precipitation', or 'arid conditions'. Expanding your range of vocabulary will help you describe the process with greater precision and sophistication.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.5

The response demonstrates a mix of simple and complex sentence structures. There are some grammatical inaccuracies, such as 'As it reaches the land it is met', where 'it' lacks a clear antecedent, and 'the winds forming above the sea approach the coast'. Punctuation is generally correct, and the errors present do not impede communication. To achieve a higher band, you should aim to use a wider variety of complex sentence structures, such as passive voice constructions or relative clauses, and ensure greater precision in subject-verb agreement and pronoun reference.

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

Browse more IELTS Writing model answers or get your own writing scored by the same AI examiner.