Band 5.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 5.5 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-08-19

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 5.5)

This diagram represents the refurbishment of floor plan of a public library in the recent 20 years.

According to this many changes are made in public library and many new things have been installed.

First of all, a major change can be seen in the north west room. In past that room is used for CDs, videos and computer games but now it becomes big by adding the adult fiction books hall and now it is serve for the storytelling events and also a part of it is use for children fiction books and they also installed two sofas in this room. Secondally, the room on the left side of entrance is also modified. In past it was used as the reading room but now it is totally converted into computer room. While the empty space between the story telling room and computer room is use to provide all the reference books.

On the other hand, the children books room is now use as lecture room and a cafe is installed in the place of enquiry room. They also change the adult non fiction books hall into adult fiction hall and also put the self service machines there with some information desk.

while the tables and chairs have been removed in the new library.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.5

You have successfully identified the main features of the library floor plan and made relevant comparisons between the two time periods. You covered the key changes, such as the conversion of the reading room into a computer room and the addition of a cafe. However, the response lacks a clear overview paragraph, which is essential for a high band score in Task 1. An overview should summarise the most significant trends or changes rather than just listing details. Additionally, some descriptions are slightly confusing, such as the mention of 'adult fiction books hall' appearing in two different locations. To improve, ensure your summary highlights the most striking transformations at the beginning of the report.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 5.5

The response is organised into paragraphs, which helps the reader follow the information. However, the use of cohesive devices is somewhat mechanical and repetitive (e.g., 'First of all', 'Secondally', 'On the other hand'). The progression of ideas is occasionally disjointed, particularly when moving between different rooms. To improve, try to use a wider variety of linking words and ensure that the transition between sentences is smoother. The paragraphing is also a bit unbalanced, with a very long second paragraph and a very short final one. Grouping related information more logically would enhance the overall flow.

Lexical Resource — Band 5.5

The vocabulary is generally adequate for the task, allowing you to describe the changes clearly. You use some specific terms like 'refurbishment', 'converted', and 'installed'. However, there are several instances of awkward word choice and minor errors, such as 'it is serve for' instead of 'it serves' and 'they also change' instead of 'the hall was changed'. The range of vocabulary is somewhat limited, relying on basic verbs. To achieve a higher score, try to incorporate more precise academic vocabulary related to describing changes, such as 'transformed', 'relocated', or 'replaced'.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.0

There are frequent grammatical errors throughout the text, particularly regarding verb tense and subject-verb agreement. For example, you use present tense ('is used', 'is serve') to describe past events, which is inaccurate. You also have issues with passive voice construction, such as 'is use to provide' instead of 'is used to provide'. While you attempt some complex sentences, they are often marred by these errors. To improve, focus on maintaining consistent verb tenses when comparing the past and present, and practice the correct formation of passive structures, which are essential for describing floor plans.

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

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