Band 5.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 5.0 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-09-10

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 picture depicts the how the rain-shadow desert is originated.

overall, there are 8 steps which lead to the formation of rain-shadow desert, rainfall always occurred in the windward side whereas in the leeward side barely rain falls.

The process begin from winds approach coast i.e. Sea the formed wind pushed upwards at reaching some height moist air cools and could formation begins later rain falls in the windward side of the mountain. As Sea exists in the windward side which acts as the main source for the rain commencement. Talking about the leeward side the things comes is the dry air continues flew over the mountains that air reaches the inland areas and rest there, which is represents that only dry air recesses there

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, the explanation is underdeveloped and lacks the necessary detail to provide a comprehensive summary. The description of the steps is fragmented, and the comparison between the windward and leeward sides is simplistic. To improve, you must expand on the stages of the process, such as the specific role of mountain elevation and the transition of air moisture, to ensure all parts of the prompt are addressed thoroughly.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 5.0

The essay lacks a clear logical structure. While there is an attempt at an overview, the body paragraphs are poorly organized and lack effective cohesive devices. Transitions between sentences are often missing or awkward, such as 'Talking about the leeward side the things comes is...', which makes the progression of ideas difficult to follow. The use of referencing is also unclear, particularly in the final sentence. To achieve a higher band, you should use a wider range of linking words (e.g., 'subsequently', 'consequently', 'in contrast') to connect your ideas more fluidly and ensure each paragraph has a clear focus.

Lexical Resource — Band 5.0

The vocabulary is quite limited and repetitive. There are several instances of awkward word choices and incorrect collocations, such as 'rain-shadow desert is originated' instead of 'formed' or 'created', and 'rain commencement' which is not natural in this context. The phrasing 'the things comes is' is also non-standard. You need to focus on using more precise, academic vocabulary related to geographical processes. Expanding your range of descriptive verbs and nouns will help you convey information more accurately and professionally.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.0

The response contains frequent grammatical errors that occasionally impede communication. There are issues with subject-verb agreement (e.g., 'rainfall always occurred'), article usage (e.g., 'As Sea exists'), and sentence structure (e.g., 'the process begin from winds approach coast'). Many sentences are run-on or lack necessary punctuation, making them difficult to parse. To improve, focus on mastering basic sentence construction, including correct verb tenses for describing processes and the appropriate use of articles. Reducing these frequent errors is essential for moving to a higher band.

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

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