Band 5.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 5.0 · 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 5.0)

The maps illustrate the changes made to the layout of a public library floor over the period of 20 years.

Overall, the central library underwent significant changes, including the addition of a information desk, Self-service machines, and sofas. In addition, the reading room and children's books were replaced by computer room and lecture room respectively, while

the tables and chairs area was demolished.

Before the redesign, the tables and chairs area was situated in the center of the library infront of the main entrance, furthermore adult fiction and non-fiction books sections were positioned to the right and left of the dining area. The enquiry desk was located in the east-southern part of the library and a reading room adjacent to the entrance. Children's books and enjoyment facilities were located on the northern side.

After 20 years, the dining area was demolished, whereas the

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 4.0

The response is incomplete, as it cuts off abruptly in the final paragraph, failing to describe the current layout fully. Because the response is under the 150-word minimum and lacks a complete summary of the 'now' state, it does not address all parts of the task. While the overview and the description of the past layout are clear, the failure to finish the report significantly impacts the score. To improve, ensure you allocate enough time to cover all features presented in the diagrams and check that your response meets the minimum length requirement.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 5.0

The response uses some cohesive devices such as 'In addition', 'whereas', and 'Before the redesign' to link ideas. Paragraphing is attempted, but the abrupt ending makes the overall structure feel unfinished. The progression of information is logical in the sections that were completed, moving from an overview to the past layout. However, the lack of a concluding section or a full description of the current library layout prevents the text from achieving a higher level of cohesion. Focus on completing your thoughts and ensuring each paragraph has a clear purpose.

Lexical Resource — Band 5.5

The vocabulary is generally appropriate for describing a floor plan, using terms like 'layout', 'demolished', 'adjacent', and 'situated'. There are minor errors, such as 'east-southern' (should be 'south-east') and 'enjoyment facilities' (which is an unnatural collocation for a library). The range is sufficient to convey basic information, but the incomplete nature of the text limits the opportunity to demonstrate a wider or more sophisticated range of vocabulary. To improve, focus on using more precise geographical descriptors and natural collocations for library features.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.5

The response contains a mix of simple and complex sentence structures. There are some grammatical errors, such as 'a information desk' (should be 'an') and 'infront' (should be 'in front'). Punctuation is generally acceptable, though the sentence structure becomes fragmented at the end of the text. While the errors do not consistently impede communication, the limited length and the incomplete final sentence make it difficult to assess a wider range of complex structures. Focus on article usage and ensuring that all sentences are fully formed and grammatically complete.

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

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