Band 5.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 5.5 · Cambridge IELTS 13 · 2026-09-01

IELTS Writing Task 1 question

The plans below show the layout of a university’s sports centre now, and how it will look after redevelopment.

Summarize the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

Student answer (Band 5.5)

the plan illustrates the layout of a sport center university before and after developments

overall , this redevelopment added many new features and some of the outdoor courts will be changed into new indoor ones.however the gym,25m pool,and reception remained same after development.

In the present plan,visitors enter the building from south through the reception.the gym is located at the top of the sport university and 25m pool at the middle of the university with a changing room on the left and seating on its right.

In the future plan outdoor courts will be changed into three different categories,sports hall located on the left of seating area and two dance studioes

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 address the task. While you have identified some main features, such as the gym and pool remaining unchanged and the conversion of outdoor courts, the description is incomplete. Several areas of the plan are not mentioned, and the lack of detail prevents a comprehensive overview. To improve, you must ensure you describe all significant changes and provide a more detailed comparison between the two layouts to meet the length requirement and demonstrate a full understanding of the visual data.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 5.5

The essay is organized into paragraphs, which is a positive step. However, the use of cohesive devices is very limited, making the flow between sentences feel somewhat mechanical. For example, the transition between the introduction and the body paragraphs is abrupt. To improve, you should use a wider variety of linking words and phrases (e.g., 'furthermore', 'in contrast', 'subsequently') to connect your ideas more fluidly. Additionally, ensure that your paragraphing is consistent and that each paragraph focuses on a clear, distinct aspect of the comparison.

Lexical Resource — Band 5.5

Your vocabulary is generally functional but lacks the range and precision required for a higher band score. You rely on basic terms like 'changed' and 'new features'. To improve, you should incorporate more specific vocabulary related to spatial descriptions and architectural changes, such as 'converted', 'transformed', 'remained unchanged', or 'undergone redevelopment'. Furthermore, there are minor errors in word formation, such as 'studioes' instead of 'studios'. Expanding your range of synonyms and ensuring accurate spelling will help you convey information more effectively.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.5

The response contains a mix of simple sentence structures, but there is a lack of complex grammatical forms. There are also several punctuation and capitalization errors, such as the lack of capital letters at the start of sentences and after periods. Additionally, some articles are missing (e.g., 'at the middle of the university'). To improve, focus on using a wider variety of complex sentence structures, such as relative clauses or passive voice, and pay closer attention to basic punctuation and capitalization rules to ensure your writing is professional and error-free.

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

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