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 diagram illustrates how one type of desert is formed into other desert called rain-shadow.

Overall, the diagram describe how one desert become into rain-shadow desert after falling of water on mountains. it start with winds approach coast to end with dry winds reach inland areas.

Firstly, the process of formation of rain-shadow desert, wind approach coast to winds pushed upwards. After that, moist air rises and cools are slowly start in windward side. Similarly, clouds form start then rain falls.

Subsequently, after rain falls dry air continues over mountain. that time it leeward side. dry winds reach inland area and showed rain-shadow desert.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 4.5

The response fails to meet the minimum word count requirement of 150 words, which significantly impacts the development of the task. While you have identified the main stages of the process, the description is too brief and lacks the necessary detail to fully explain the formation of a rain-shadow desert. For example, you mention 'moist air rises' but do not elaborate on the cooling process or the significance of the leeward side in sufficient depth. To improve, you must expand on each stage of the diagram, ensuring you provide a comprehensive summary that covers all key features presented in the visual data.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 5.0

The essay is organised into short paragraphs, which is a positive step. However, the logical flow is hindered by the lack of cohesive devices and awkward sentence transitions. Phrases like 'that time it leeward side' are grammatically fragmented and make it difficult for the reader to follow the progression of the process. You should use a wider range of linking words and phrases, such as 'consequently,' 'subsequently,' or 'as a result,' to connect your ideas more smoothly. Additionally, ensure that each sentence is complete and clearly linked to the previous one to improve the overall coherence of your writing.

Lexical Resource — Band 5.0

Your vocabulary is quite limited and repetitive, relying heavily on basic terms like 'wind,' 'desert,' and 'rain.' There is little attempt to use more precise or academic terminology related to geography or meteorology. For instance, instead of saying 'showed rain-shadow desert,' you could use more descriptive verbs like 'results in the formation of' or 'characterises.' To reach a higher band, try to incorporate topic-specific vocabulary such as 'precipitation,' 'atmospheric conditions,' 'prevailing winds,' or 'arid conditions.' Expanding your range of vocabulary will help you describe the process with greater accuracy and sophistication.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.0

The response contains frequent grammatical errors that impede clarity. There are issues with subject-verb agreement (e.g., 'the diagram describe'), missing articles (e.g., 'on mountains'), and incorrect sentence structures (e.g., 'wind approach coast to winds pushed upwards'). The range of structures is very limited, consisting mostly of simple sentences. To improve, focus on mastering basic sentence construction and ensuring that your verbs agree with their subjects. Incorporating more complex sentence structures, such as using relative clauses or passive voice, will also help demonstrate a wider grammatical range and improve the accuracy of your writing.

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

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