Band 5.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 5.0 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-08-06
IELTS Writing Task 1 question
The diagram below shows the floor plan of a public library 20 years ago and how it looks now.
Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.
Central Library 20 years ago
Student answer (Band 5.0)
The diagram compares the floor plan of a public library how it used to look like 20 years ago and how it looks now.
Overall, the public library have same structure but the things have changed a lot, tables and chairs has been remove instead sofa and self serving machine have been put up. Library have also set up the lecture room, cafe, all reference books section and place for story telling events.
20 years ago when people used to enter the library, there was tables and chairs in the hallway. There were CDs, videos and computer games a separate section for children's books. for adults there were two section one for frictional and second for non frictional books. A separate room for reading newspaper and magazines. In contrast to that after 20 years adults non frictional books section have been removed. Only frictional books for adults and children are kept now. Enquiry desk has been replaced with information desk.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 5.0 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 5.0 |
| Lexical Resource | 5.0 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 5.0 |
| Overall | 5.0 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.0
The response provides a general overview of the changes, but it lacks the precision required for a higher band. While you identify some changes, such as the removal of tables and the addition of a cafe, the description of the book sections is inaccurate and confusing. For instance, you mention that 'adults non frictional books section have been removed,' which is not clearly supported by the visual data. To improve, ensure you accurately report the specific locations and types of facilities (e.g., the shift from a reading room to a lecture room). The summary of the main features is present, but the lack of detail regarding the spatial layout prevents a more comprehensive analysis.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 5.0
The essay is organized into three short paragraphs, which is a logical approach. However, the use of cohesive devices is limited and sometimes mechanical. Phrases like 'In contrast to that' are used, but the flow between sentences is often disjointed. The referencing is occasionally unclear, particularly when describing the movement of sections. To improve, use a wider variety of linking words to connect your ideas more fluidly and ensure that each paragraph has a clear topic sentence that guides the reader through the comparison of the two floor plans.
Lexical Resource — Band 5.0
The vocabulary is somewhat limited and repetitive. You rely on basic terms like 'things,' 'put up,' and 'set up,' which lack the precision needed for describing a floor plan. There are also errors in word choice, such as 'frictional' instead of 'fiction.' While the meaning is generally conveyed, the lack of specific terminology for library features (e.g., 'shelving units,' 'layout,' 'relocated') restricts your score. To improve, focus on learning topic-specific vocabulary related to describing diagrams and spatial changes, and ensure you use the correct forms of words.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.0
There are frequent grammatical errors throughout the text that occasionally impede readability. Subject-verb agreement is a consistent issue, such as 'the public library have' (should be 'has') and 'tables and chairs has been remove' (should be 'have been removed'). Additionally, there are errors in sentence structure and tense usage. While you attempt some complex sentences, they are often marred by these errors. To improve, focus on mastering basic subject-verb agreement and the passive voice, which is essential for describing changes in a diagram. Proofreading for these common errors will significantly improve your score.
See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.
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