Band 5.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 5.5 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-08-28
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 two floor plan illustrates the floor plan of public library 20 years ago and how it looks today
Overall library has been developed now as compared to 20 years ago . The main changes that have made in library are they added the Ai reference books and cafe where there was enquiry desks , then they made a lecture room , they also add the self service service machines
Twenty years ago after entering the library , In the right hand side there is a reading room for read a newspaper and magazines and in the left side there is an enquiry desks for tickets and book returns etc , adjacent to enquiry desk there is adult non fiction books section , on the other hand opposite to adult non fiction books there is section for adult fiction books,
At the right corner of library there is a room allocated for CD , videos , and computer while on the opposite side of computer games there is compartment for the children books
Today the library have made many changes now after the entrance there is computer room at the right side and in the west side there is cafe and adjacent to cafe there are information desk , self service machines and adult fiction books, On the opposite side there is AI reference books section which is new and in the left corner there is compartment for storytelling events and children fiction books , in right corner there is a lecture room
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 5.5 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 5.5 |
| Lexical Resource | 5.5 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 5.5 |
| Overall | 5.5 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.5
The response covers the main features of the floor plan, identifying key changes such as the addition of the cafe, lecture room, and self-service machines. However, the overview is somewhat simplistic and lacks a clear, professional summary of the most significant trends. The description of the layout is generally accurate, but some details are slightly confusing, such as the reference to 'west side' which is not clearly defined in the diagram. To reach a higher band, ensure the overview highlights the most striking transformations rather than just listing changes, and maintain a more objective, formal tone throughout the report.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 5.5
The essay is organized into paragraphs, which helps the reader follow the progression from the past to the present. However, the use of cohesive devices is quite mechanical and repetitive (e.g., 'on the other hand', 'in the right hand side'). There is a lack of sophisticated linking words to connect ideas smoothly. Furthermore, the paragraphing is a bit disjointed, and the transition between the past layout and the current layout could be more fluid. Improving the variety of transition signals and ensuring each paragraph has a clear thematic focus would enhance the overall coherence.
Lexical Resource — Band 5.5
The vocabulary is adequate for the task but lacks precision and variety. There are several instances of awkward phrasing, such as 'Ai reference books' and 'compartment for storytelling'. The range of vocabulary is limited, relying heavily on basic descriptors. To improve, you should incorporate more precise terminology related to floor plans and spatial descriptions, such as 'situated', 'relocated', 'transformed', or 'designated area'. Additionally, there are minor errors in word choice, such as 'self service service machines', which suggest a need for more careful proofreading to ensure accuracy and professional tone.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.5
The response contains a mix of simple and complex sentence structures, but there are frequent grammatical errors that occasionally impede the flow of reading. Issues include incorrect verb tenses (e.g., 'library have made'), missing articles (e.g., 'in right hand side'), and awkward sentence construction. Punctuation is also inconsistent, with some sentences lacking proper structure. While the meaning is generally clear, the high frequency of errors in basic grammar prevents the essay from reaching a higher band. Focusing on subject-verb agreement and the correct use of prepositions of place would significantly improve the quality of your writing.
See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.
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