Band 5.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 5.5 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-09-10
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 demonstrates the public library floor plan comparison from 20 years ago to current period.
In the overview of central library sketch, one thing remained constant, which is entrance. Other than that, upon looking the two decades ago picture, table and chairs showed in center of the library later replaced with two sofas in storytelling events. Around each table 8 chairs were placed (2 table and 16 chairs). The most eye-catching thing was this sitting arrangement, which was removed and can't be seen in today's time period as well as adult non-fiction books. Afterall, in both diagrams 3 compartments were showed, out of that 2 have the same room size, whereas other room got bigger in size comparatively to old one. The vast thing was removed is CDs, videos, computer games, in today's blueprint, instead all of that computer room is added. The main feature is seen was 3 self-service machines and besides small space occupied by information desk (enquiry desk). Above all children's book was replaced with a fiction book and a stage performance place was added for storytelling events. On top right corner children's book space was replaced with a lecture room. Cafeteria is parallel to lecture room. All reference books section was added in an open area, which is above computer room. Once two decades ago it was a adult fiction books.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 5.5 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 5.0 |
| Lexical Resource | 5.5 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 5.0 |
| Overall | 5.5 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.5
The response covers the main features of the library floor plan, identifying key changes such as the addition of the computer room, lecture room, and the removal of the seating area. However, the report lacks a clear, structured overview, which is essential for Task 1. The description is somewhat disjointed, jumping between different areas of the library without a logical flow. While the main features are identified, the comparison is hindered by a lack of precision in describing the spatial layout. To improve, you should group information logically (e.g., structural changes vs. functional changes) and ensure a clear summary of the most significant trends is provided in the introduction or overview.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 5.0
The response is organized into a single, long paragraph, which makes it difficult to follow. Paragraphing is a key requirement for Band 6 and above. While there is an attempt to use cohesive devices (e.g., 'In the overview', 'Afterall', 'On top right corner'), the transitions are often mechanical or misused. The logical progression of ideas is weak, as the description moves erratically between different parts of the library. To improve, you should use separate paragraphs for the introduction/overview and the body details, and use linking words more naturally to connect related ideas.
Lexical Resource — Band 5.5
The vocabulary is generally adequate to convey the basic meaning, but it lacks the precision and variety expected for higher bands. There are several awkward phrasings, such as 'The vast thing was removed is CDs' and 'today's time period'. The use of vocabulary is often repetitive and lacks the academic tone required for a report. You should aim to use more precise terminology for describing changes, such as 'replaced by', 'converted into', 'relocated', or 'expanded'. Expanding your range of descriptive adjectives and nouns related to floor plans will help improve your score.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.0
The response contains a mix of simple and some complex structures, but there are frequent grammatical errors that occasionally impede clarity. Examples include 'table and chairs showed in center' (missing articles/passive voice), '3 compartments were showed' (incorrect verb form), and 'Once two decades ago it was a adult fiction books' (subject-verb agreement). Punctuation is also inconsistent. To improve, focus on mastering basic sentence structures, ensuring subject-verb agreement, and using articles correctly. Practicing the passive voice for describing changes in diagrams will also be highly beneficial.
See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.
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