Band 5.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 5.5 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-09-19
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 given representation illustrates the floor plan of a public library 20 years ago and how it looks now.
Overall, the whole central library underwent significant changes but the most noticeable update was replacing of tables and chairs with comfortable sofas. However, a minor change was also done for entry gates of computer room and cafe.
To start with, after entering through library's main entrance in the right corner there used to be a enquiry desk used for tickets, book returns, etc has now been transformed into a cafe for visitors. Additionally, in the left side of entry there used to be a reading room with a variety of newspapers and magazines which has been now converted into a computer room. Moving forward we can clearly see that the tables and chairs at the very centre of the library are removed completely.
Furthermore, in the East and West side of these chairs and tables there were adult non-fiction books and adult fiction books respectively. Which are replaced by information desk, self service machines and different kinds of reference books. Moreover, children books and CD, computer games at the upper left and right are replaced by the sofas, story telling events and lecture rooms respectively.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 6.0 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 5.5 |
| Lexical Resource | 5.5 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 5.5 |
| Overall | 5.5 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.0
The student successfully addresses all parts of the prompt by summarising the main features of the library floor plan 20 years ago and comparing them with the present layout. An overview is provided in the second paragraph, capturing the most significant transformations. Key details are reported, such as the replacement of the enquiry desk with a cafe and the reading room with a computer room. However, there are some minor misreadings of the diagram's spatial arrangements; for instance, the student states that the entrance is in the right corner, whereas the visual data shows it in the bottom centre. Despite this slip, the core comparison is clear and well-supported, satisfying the requirements for Band 6.5 to 7.0.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 5.5
The response is arranged logically with an introduction, an overview, and body paragraphs detailing specific changes. Progression is generally clear, guided by transition phrases such as 'To start with', 'Additionally', and 'Moving forward'. However, paragraphing could be structured more cleanly, and some cohesive devices feel slightly mechanical or repetitive. Referencing is mostly clear, though a few abrupt transitions between sections affect the overall fluidity. Overall, the structural arrangement demonstrates a coherent organization that meets Band 6.0 criteria.
Lexical Resource — Band 5.5
The student demonstrates an adequate range of vocabulary for the task, attempting some less common collocations and descriptive verbs such as 'transformed', 'converted', and 'substantially'. There are a few lexical inaccuracies and awkward phrasings, such as referring to 'entry gates' instead of doors, and minor prepositional errors. Spelling is generally accurate throughout the response. The lexical range is sufficient to convey the information clearly, aligning well with the Band 6 descriptor.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.5
The writing includes a mix of simple and complex sentence structures, such as relative clauses and passive voice constructions ('has now been transformed', 'are removed completely'). There are several grammatical errors and punctuation slips, including sentence fragments ('Which are replaced by...') and minor agreement issues. While these errors are noticeable, they rarely impede communication. The control over complex structures is developing, which fits the profile for a Band 6.0 score.
See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.
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