Band 5.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 5.5 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-09-11
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 illustrates the floor plan of a public library 20 years ago and how it looks now.
Overall, there is a considerable changes in todays floor plan as most of the things are changed. Enquiry desk is completely replaced with cafe, also adult fiction books is replaced with all reference books.
Tables and chairs from center are removed, while self-serve machines and information desks are added in adult non-fiction books zone. On the opposite side of it all reference books are added replacing adult fiction books. CDs, Videos, computer games room is renovated. Sofas are added in each 2 corners and room is changed to children's fiction books also, storytelling events is added. Meanwhile, on the right side of it children's books room is converted into lecture room.
Computer room is added on the left side of the entrance gate replacing previous reading room and on the right side cafe is added in place of enquiry desk.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 5.5 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 5.5 |
| Lexical Resource | 5.5 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 5.0 |
| 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 cafe, computer room, and the reconfiguration of book sections. However, the overview is somewhat weak; it lacks a clear summary of the most significant trends, such as the shift from a traditional reading space to a more technology-oriented facility. While the response identifies specific changes, the description of the layout is occasionally confusing, particularly regarding the 'opposite side' and 'right side' references, which makes it difficult for the reader to visualize the changes clearly. To improve, ensure the overview highlights the most striking transformations rather than just listing changes.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 5.5
The essay is organized into paragraphs, which helps the reader follow the structure. However, the use of cohesive devices is somewhat mechanical and repetitive (e.g., 'meanwhile', 'also'). The progression of ideas is occasionally disjointed, particularly in the third paragraph where the movement between different areas of the library feels abrupt. Referencing is sometimes unclear, such as 'on the opposite side of it', which leaves the reader unsure of the exact spatial relationship being described. Improving the variety of linking words and ensuring smoother transitions between spatial descriptions would enhance the flow of the response.
Lexical Resource — Band 5.5
The vocabulary is generally adequate for the task, allowing the writer to describe the changes in the library. However, there are several instances of imprecise word choice and minor errors, such as 'considerable changes' (should be 'considerable change' or 'considerable changes have occurred') and 'things are changed'. The range is somewhat limited, relying on basic verbs like 'added', 'removed', and 'changed'. To reach a higher band, the student should incorporate more precise descriptive vocabulary related to floor plans and spatial changes, such as 'transformed', 'relocated', 'converted', or 'partitioned'.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.0
The response contains a mix of simple and some complex sentence structures. There are frequent grammatical errors, particularly with subject-verb agreement (e.g., 'adult fiction books is replaced', 'storytelling events is added') and article usage (e.g., 'Enquiry desk is', 'on the right side cafe is added'). While these errors do not completely impede communication, they are noticeable and occur throughout the text. To improve, the student should focus on basic grammatical accuracy, specifically pluralization and the correct use of articles, and attempt to vary sentence structures with more complex clauses to demonstrate better control.
See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.
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