Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.5 · Cambridge IELTS 11 · 2026-09-02

IELTS Writing Task 1 question

The table below shows the numbers of visitors to Ashdown Museum during the year before and the year after it was refurbished. The charts show the result of surveys asking visitors how satisfied they were with their visit, during the same two periods.

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

Student answer (Band 6.5)

The table compares the total number of visitors to Ashdown Museum in the year preceding and following its refurbishment, while the pie charts illustrate the results of visitor satisfaction surveys conducted over the same periods.

Overall, the refurbishment had a markedly positive impact on the museum. Visitor numbers increased substantially, and satisfaction levels improved dramatically, whereas the proportions of dissatisfied and very dissatisfied visitors declined considerably.

The museum attracted 74,000 visitors in the year before the refurbishment. This figure rose by 18,000 to 92,000 in the following year, representing an increase of approximately 24%.

Regarding visitor satisfaction, only 15% of respondents reported being very satisfied before the renovation, while 30% stated that they were satisfied. By contrast, 40% were dissatisfied, making it the largest category, and a further 10% were very dissatisfied. The remaining 5% did not provide a response.

Following the refurbishment, the pattern changed significantly. The proportion of very satisfied visitors more than doubled to 35%, while the percentage who were satisfied climbed to 40%, together

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.5

The response covers all parts of the task well. You have successfully identified the main features, such as the increase in visitor numbers and the shift in satisfaction levels. The data is accurately reported, and the comparison between the two periods is clear. However, the response is incomplete; it ends abruptly mid-sentence ('together'), which prevents a full summary of the final data points. While the key features are highlighted, this lack of completion means the task is not fully addressed, as the final data regarding dissatisfied and very dissatisfied visitors is missing. To reach a higher band, ensure the conclusion or final analysis is fully articulated.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5

The response is logically organized, with a clear introduction, an overview, and body paragraphs that group information effectively. You use cohesive devices such as 'while', 'whereas', 'by contrast', and 'following the refurbishment' to guide the reader through the data. The progression of ideas is logical, moving from visitor numbers to satisfaction levels. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate the different data sets. The main issue is the abrupt ending, which disrupts the flow and leaves the final cohesive link unfinished. Despite this, the overall structure is coherent and easy to follow.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

You demonstrate a good range of vocabulary, using terms like 'preceding', 'illustrate', 'substantially', 'dramatically', and 'respondents' with precision. The language is appropriate for an academic report and conveys the information clearly. There are no significant errors in word choice or collocation. While the vocabulary is sufficient and accurate, it does not consistently reach the level of 'less common' items that would characterize a higher band. However, the control shown is solid, and the vocabulary effectively supports the task requirements.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.5

The response uses a variety of complex structures, such as 'The table compares... while the pie charts illustrate...' and 'only 15% of respondents reported being very satisfied... while 30% stated that...'. The majority of sentences are error-free, and the grammar is generally accurate. Punctuation is handled well throughout the text. The abrupt ending is a structural issue rather than a grammatical one, though it does leave a sentence incomplete. Overall, the control of grammar is strong, and the range of structures is sufficient for the task.

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