Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.5 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-09-05

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 map diagrams illustrate the changes took place in public library between 20 years ago and the present day.

Overall, the library has under significant redevelopment, Traditional reading areas have been reduced, while tables and chairs have been removed from a foyer, and there is an addition of a cafe at the bottom of the map.

On the one hand, the area for computational activities was located at the top left corner, with adult's fiction books directly below it. The children's books section and adult non-fiction books area were located side by side, whereas circular tables and chairs were placed in the centre of a foyer. In addition, the reading room containing newspaper and magazines was designated adjacent to entrance, while an enquiry desk used to be at lower right bottom.

Since then, the place dedicated for computational activities has been transformed to storytelling section with two sofas and fiction books for children. The children's books area has been converted into lecture room, whereas the reading room into a computer room. The adult non-fiction books centre has been developed into adult fiction books with information desk and three self-service machines. The cafe is present at the place of the enquiry desk. Notably, adult fiction books space has been reduced and changed into all reference books.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.0

The response successfully covers the main features of the library floor plan, comparing the past and present layouts. You have identified key changes, such as the conversion of the reading room into a computer room and the addition of a cafe. However, the overview is slightly underdeveloped; while you mention 'significant redevelopment,' it would be more effective to highlight the most striking transformation, such as the shift from a traditional book-focused space to a more modern, multifunctional facility. The description of the changes is generally accurate, though the final sentence regarding 'reference books' is slightly confusing in its phrasing. Overall, you have provided a clear summary of the information presented in the diagrams.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.0

The essay is logically organized, with a clear introduction, an overview, and two body paragraphs detailing the past and present states. You use cohesive devices such as 'On the one hand,' 'In addition,' and 'Since then' to guide the reader through the changes. While the progression is generally smooth, some transitions feel slightly mechanical. The paragraphing is appropriate, and the information is grouped logically by time period. To reach a higher band, ensure that referencing is always precise; for example, 'the place dedicated for computational activities' is a bit wordy, and the link between the old and new layouts could be even more seamless.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

You demonstrate a sufficient range of vocabulary to describe the floor plan, using terms like 'redevelopment,' 'transformed,' 'converted,' and 'designated.' There are some minor inaccuracies in word choice, such as 'the changes took place in public library' (missing an article) and 'at the bottom of the map' (referring to the diagram). You attempt to use specific terminology related to library sections, which is appropriate for this task. To improve, focus on more precise collocations and ensure articles are used correctly. The vocabulary is adequate for the task but lacks the sophisticated, natural control required for higher bands.

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 several grammatical errors, such as 'The map diagrams illustrate the changes took place' (should be 'that took place') and 'the reading room containing newspaper and magazines' (should be 'newspapers'). Additionally, there are minor issues with articles and prepositions, such as 'at lower right bottom.' While these errors are noticeable, they do not impede communication. To improve, focus on subject-verb agreement and the correct use of relative clauses to enhance the complexity and accuracy of your sentences.

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

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