Band 5.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 5.0 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-08-18
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 map illustrates the changes that took place in central library for twenty years ago till now.
Overall, the area becomes more denser in current scenario as compared to twenty years past. Area vice comparison for both cases observes larger area in past twenty year as compared to now area is less.
At the beginning of the period. There was a children's books room, which has been now replaced by a lecture room for second case. However, for adult non - fiction books are replaced by an adult fiction book information desk also contains self-service machines.
By end of period enquiry desk containing tickets, book returns etc was replaced by cafe room as well as furthermore, reading room containing newspapers and magazines was replaced by computer room. Before twenty years in front of entrance there was tables & chairs placed now the place is kept vacant for now as well as for adult fiction books section is replaced by all reference books.
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 attempts to summarize the changes in the library floor plan. However, the overview is confusing and inaccurate; it claims the area is 'denser' and that the total area has changed, which is not supported by the diagram. While the main features are identified, the description of the changes is often unclear or contradictory (e.g., 'adult fiction books section is replaced by all reference books' while also mentioning an 'adult fiction book information desk'). The report lacks a clear, accurate summary of the most significant trends, and the information provided is sometimes difficult to follow, which limits the overall achievement of the task.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 5.0
The essay is organized into paragraphs, but the logical progression is weak. The use of cohesive devices is often mechanical or misused, such as 'for second case' or 'by end of period'. Referencing is frequently unclear, making it difficult for the reader to track which part of the library is being discussed. The transition between ideas is abrupt, and the lack of precise linking words hinders the flow of information. While there is an attempt at paragraphing, the internal structure of the paragraphs lacks the necessary cohesion to guide the reader effectively through the comparison.
Lexical Resource — Band 5.0
The range of vocabulary is limited and repetitive. There are several instances of awkward word choices and non-standard collocations, such as 'area vice comparison', 'current scenario', and 'the place is kept vacant for now'. Some phrasing is unnatural, such as 'twenty years ago till now'. While the vocabulary is sufficient to convey basic information, it lacks the precision and flexibility required for higher bands. The student relies on basic descriptive terms, and the errors in word choice occasionally make the intended meaning ambiguous.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.0
The response contains frequent grammatical errors that affect readability. There are issues with sentence structure, such as fragments ('At the beginning of the period.') and run-on sentences. Subject-verb agreement and tense usage are inconsistent, for example, 'the area becomes more denser' and 'twenty years ago till now'. Punctuation is also problematic, with unnecessary commas and misused symbols. While some simple sentences are clear, the attempt at more complex structures often results in errors that impede communication. The control over basic grammar is inconsistent throughout the text.
See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.
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