Band 5.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 5.0 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-09-09
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 diagaram illustrates the formation of a type of desert which is called as rain-sahdow desert.
Overall, formation of rain-shadow desert consists of seven stages. Formation starts when winds approach coast, followed by the several stages and end when dry winds reach inland areas.
Initially, above the sea winds approach coast and pushed to upwards of mountains. After this, moist air rises and cools at the windward side. Clouds
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 4.0 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 5.0 |
| Lexical Resource | 5.0 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 5.0 |
| Overall | 5.0 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 4.0
The response is significantly under the required 150-word minimum, reaching only 70 words. Because the response is incomplete and stops abruptly mid-sentence, it fails to provide a full summary of the process or report the main features of the diagram. The task is only partially addressed, as the description of the stages is cut off before the process is fully explained. To improve, you must ensure you complete the summary of all stages shown in the diagram and meet the minimum word count requirement to allow for a full development of the information provided.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 5.0
The response attempts to use an introductory paragraph and an overview, which is a good start. However, the abrupt ending makes it impossible to assess the overall logical progression or the effective use of cohesive devices throughout a complete text. While the initial sentences are coherent, the lack of completion prevents the text from having a clear structure. You should focus on completing your thoughts and using linking words like 'subsequently', 'furthermore', or 'consequently' to connect the stages of the process more fluidly.
Lexical Resource — Band 5.0
The vocabulary used is basic and repetitive, such as the repeated use of 'formation' and 'stages'. There are also minor errors in word choice, such as 'diagaram' (spelling) and 'called as' (incorrect collocation). The range of vocabulary is limited, which is expected given the short length of the response. To achieve a higher band, you should aim to use more precise terminology related to geographical processes, such as 'precipitation', 'condensation', or 'arid conditions', and ensure accurate spelling and word combinations.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.0
The response contains several grammatical errors, including 'which is called as' (unnecessary 'as'), 'winds approach coast' (missing article 'the'), and 'pushed to upwards' (incorrect prepositional phrase). The sentence structures are simple, and the incomplete nature of the text prevents the demonstration of a wider range of complex structures. To improve, focus on using articles correctly, refining your use of passive voice for process descriptions, and ensuring that your sentences are complete and grammatically sound.
See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.
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