Band 6.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 6.0 · 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 6.0)
The provided diagram demonstrates the development plan of the central library, before and after construction.
Overall, the library has been shifted its focus from book-and-newspaper and added different varieties of books, the central tables-and-chairs area has been removed, while a computer room, lecture room, cafe, and information desk have all been added.
Examining the diagrams in detail, 20 years ago, the library had contained a central sitting area which has been removed now. Prior to development, after entering the library on the right side there was an enquiry desk for tickets and book returns, etc, now has been replaced by a cafe. On the left of the entrance a reading room has been converted into a computer room. Adult fiction books have been relocated from the west to the east, where an information desk and self-service machines have also been added.
On the west side, all reference books have been kept and this area has become reduced as compared to before. Lecture room has been located in place of children books area. CD, videos and computer games area has been expanded and converted to storytelling event room with children’s fiction books shelf on one side and placed sofas for sitting purpose.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 6.0 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 6.0 |
| Lexical Resource | 6.0 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 6.0 |
| Overall | 6.0 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.0
The student successfully identifies the main changes between the two floor plans of the central library, covering key additions and removals such as the cafe, computer room, and the removal of the central seating area. An overview is provided in the second paragraph, capturing the overall shift in the library's layout and purpose. However, there are some minor inaccuracies in reporting specific locations; for example, the lecture room replaced the children's books area in the top right, but the student's description of west and east sides is slightly confused in places. Overall, all parts of the task are addressed, earning a solid Band 6.5.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.0
The response is organized into an introduction with an overview, followed by two body paragraphs detailing the specific alterations. Logical progression is generally maintained as the writer moves from the central area to the perimeter rooms. However, referencing and cohesive devices are sometimes mechanical or slightly clumsy, such as 'now has been replaced' and 'On the west side, all reference books have been kept and this area has become reduced as compared to before.' Paragraphing is used adequately, but transitions between ideas could flow more smoothly. This performance aligns well with the Band 6 descriptors.
Lexical Resource — Band 6.0
The student uses an adequate range of vocabulary suitable for describing map changes, incorporating terms like 'relocated', 'converted', 'expanded', and 'demolished equivalents' (though not explicitly that word). There are some awkward collocations and word choices, such as 'has been shifted its focus', 'placed sofas for sitting purpose', and 'children books area'. Less common items are attempted with occasional inaccuracies. While communication is never impeded, the vocabulary is somewhat restricted in its precision and flexibility, placing it firmly in the Band 6 category.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.0
The writer attempts a mix of simple and complex sentence structures, including passive constructions ('has been removed', 'has been converted'). However, there are several grammatical errors and awkward structures, such as 'the library has been shifted its focus' (active/passive mix), missing prepositions, and tense inconsistencies. For instance, '20 years ago, the library had contained a central sitting area which has been removed now.' Despite these errors, the meaning remains clear throughout, supporting a Band 6 score.
See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.
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