Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.5 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-08-30

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 6.5)

The drawings illustrate the floor architecture of the Central bookstore two decades ago and presently.

Overall, a lot of notable changes have been done to the library. The tables and chairs initially found at the entrance of the library have been removed whereas there are now sofas in the section having children's fiction books.

Firstly, twenty years ago, the library boasted of seven main sections. As you entered the bookstore, immediately occupying the center of the room were tables and chairs. Moreover, on you right side there was an enquiry desk having tickets, book returns among others.On the left bottom quadrant there was a reading room where you could find newspapers and magazines. Additionally, the central part on both sides had adult fiction books while the top left side hadCDs, videos and computer games with the right side holding children's books.

In contrast, the current library has a computer room and a cafe at the bottom side, in the central space on the left there is an all reference books section while on the left there is an information desk, self_service machines and adult fiction books. Subsequently, the last room on the left contains children's fiction books as well as story telling events being held here. Lastly, on the top right quadrant, there is a lecture room.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.5

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 removal of the central tables and the addition of the cafe and lecture room. However, the response lacks a clear overview that synthesises the most significant trends, such as the shift from a traditional reading space to a more modern, multi-functional facility. While you mention that 'a lot of notable changes have been done', this is quite vague. To reach a higher band, ensure your overview highlights the most striking transformation rather than just listing changes.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5

The response is logically organised, with a clear distinction between the past and present layouts. You use some cohesive devices such as 'Firstly', 'In contrast', and 'Lastly' to guide the reader. However, the paragraphing is slightly unbalanced, and some transitions feel a bit mechanical. The referencing is generally clear, though the description of the current layout becomes slightly cluttered in the second paragraph, making it harder to follow the spatial progression. Improving the flow between sentences by using more varied linking phrases would enhance the overall coherence.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.0

You demonstrate an adequate range of vocabulary for the task, using terms like 'quadrant', 'enquiry desk', and 'multi-functional' (implied). However, there are some inaccuracies in word choice and collocation. For example, referring to a library as a 'bookstore' is factually incorrect based on the prompt. Additionally, phrases like 'having tickets' and 'having children's fiction books' are somewhat simplistic. To improve, focus on using more precise academic vocabulary related to floor plans and spatial descriptions, and ensure your terminology accurately reflects the context provided in the prompt.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.0

You use a mix of simple and complex sentence structures, which is appropriate for this task. There are some grammatical errors, such as 'on you right side' (should be 'your') and 'self_service' (should be hyphenated). Some sentences are slightly awkward, such as 'the section having children's fiction books'. While these errors do not impede communication, they occur frequently enough to prevent a higher score. Increasing your control over prepositions and ensuring consistent punctuation will help improve your accuracy and the overall sophistication of your writing.

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

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