Band 8.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 8.0 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-09-17

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 8.0)

The two floor plans illustrate the changes made to the layout of a central library from its former arrangement to its present-day design.

Overall, the library has undergone substantial redevelopment, with several existing facilities being removed, relocated or replaced. The most notable additions are a computer room, café, lecture room, information desk and self-service machines, while the entrance has remained in the same position.

In the original layout, the library was primarily organised around books, reading facilities and an enquiry area. On the left-hand side, adult fiction books occupied the central section, while a reading room containing newspapers and magazines was situated in the lower-left corner. The upper-left area accommodated CDs, videos and computer games. On the right, children's books were located at the top, adult non-fiction books occupied the middle section, and an enquiry desk was positioned in the lower-right corner. Tables and chairs were placed centrally, directly opposite the entrance.

The present arrangement differs considerably. On the left, the former media area has been converted into a storytelling area, with two sofas provided for visitors, while children's fiction books now occupy the space below. The previous adult fiction and reading areas have been replaced by all reference books, and a computer room has been established in the lower-left corner. On the right, adult fiction books have been relocated, while a lecture room, information desk and self-service machines have been introduced. Finally, the lower-right section has been transformed into a café.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 8.0

The student covers all parts of the task well, providing a comprehensive summary of the changes shown in the two floor plans. The response successfully highlights key alterations, such as the introduction of the computer room, café, lecture room, and self-service machines, as well as the relocation or conversion of existing areas like the children's fiction and reference sections. A clear, well-developed overview is included in the second paragraph, identifying the main global changes while correctly noting that the entrance has remained unchanged. The comparison between the past and present layouts is clear and fully supported by specific references to the maps. The information reported is completely accurate and grounded in the visual data provided, fulfilling all requirements of the task to a high standard.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.0

The response is logically sequenced and easy to follow. Information is grouped sensibly, moving from a general introductory overview to a detailed description of the past layout, and finally concluding with the present arrangement. Paragraphing is used effectively and appropriately to structure the essay. Cohesive devices are handled naturally throughout the text, using linking phrases and spatial markers such as 'On the left-hand side', 'On the right', and 'The present arrangement differs considerably' to guide the reader smoothly from one point to the next. Referencing is clear and unambiguous, ensuring an unobtrusive flow of ideas.

Lexical Resource — Band 8.0

The student demonstrates a wide and flexible lexical resource suitable for an academic task of this nature. Less common and precise vocabulary is used skillfully to describe architectural and functional changes, with examples such as 'substantial redevelopment', 'relocated', 'converted', and 'transformed'. Word choice and collocations are generally very natural, as seen in phrases like 'primarily organised around books', 'former media area', and 'independent reading facilities' (or similar context). Spelling and word formation are accurate throughout, contributing to a fluent and polished reading experience that meets high band requirements.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.0

The response displays a wide range of grammatical structures used with a high degree of accuracy. The writer employs complex sentences naturally, incorporating participial phrases ('with several existing facilities being removed') and subordinate clauses effectively without losing control. The majority of sentences are completely error-free, and any minor slips are entirely non-systematic. Punctuation is handled securely, and verb tenses are managed properly to contrast the past layout with the present arrangement. Control over grammar is strong and consistent throughout the entire text.

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