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)

The diagram illustrates a public library 20 years ago and its modifications at present time.

Overall, there has been noticeable alterations in the structure of library.

20 years ago, in front of entrance of central library, small sitting arrangement has been planned there but now they have been removed . At the left of tables and chairs, there was adult fiction books section, whereas, at top of it, CD's, videos, computer games were placed there and beyond that a reading room for has been designed there. Contrary, currently there are reference books in the mid, above them there is sitting and fiction books. moreover, below it there is computer room at left. Moving towards right part of library there were adult non-fiction books which has been replaced by adult fiction books, information desk and machines. Above them, there were children books and next to that section there is enquiry desk.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.5

The response covers the main features of the library's transformation, identifying key changes such as the removal of the seating area and the relocation of various sections. However, the report lacks a clear, structured overview of the most significant changes, which is essential for a high band score. The description of the current layout is somewhat confusing, particularly when referencing 'mid' and 'above' without clear spatial markers. To improve, ensure you group information logically—perhaps by comparing the 'before' and 'after' states more systematically—and provide a more distinct summary of the overall trend of the library's modernisation.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 5.0

The response is organised into a single paragraph, which hinders the logical flow of information. While there is an attempt to use cohesive devices like 'moreover' and 'contrary', the transition between ideas is often mechanical and sometimes confusing. The lack of paragraphing makes it difficult for the reader to distinguish between the past and present layouts. To improve, use separate paragraphs for the 'before' and 'after' states, or group by functional areas. Ensure that referencing (e.g., 'it', 'them') is precise so the reader knows exactly which section of the library is being discussed.

Lexical Resource — Band 5.5

The vocabulary is generally adequate for the task, but it lacks the precision required for describing diagrams. Phrases like 'small sitting arrangement' and 'at top of it' are somewhat vague. There are also some awkward collocations, such as 'noticeable alterations in the structure of library' (missing an article) and 'at the left of tables'. To reach a higher band, focus on using more precise spatial vocabulary (e.g., 'situated in the north-west corner', 'adjacent to', 'replaced by') and ensure articles are used correctly with nouns.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.0

The response contains several grammatical errors that occasionally impede clarity. There are frequent issues with article usage (e.g., 'in front of entrance', 'at left of tables') and subject-verb agreement (e.g., 'there has been noticeable alterations'). The sentence structures are relatively simple, and the attempt at complex sentences often results in awkward phrasing. To improve, focus on mastering the use of articles and prepositions of place. Additionally, practice using passive voice consistently when describing changes to the layout, as this is standard for this type of task.

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

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