Band 5.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 5.0 · Cambridge IELTS 11 · 2026-08-31

IELTS Writing Task 1 question

Write a letter to the manager of the hotel. In your letter

• say where you think you left the papers
• explain why they are so important
• tell the manager what you want him/her to do

You do NOT need to write any addresses.

Begin your letter as follows:

Dear Sir or Madam,

Student answer (Band 5.0)

Dear Sir or Madam,

I am want to inform you that I forget my important papers at your hotel. I satyed at one of yours hotel named Five Star two days ago. The purpose of my stay was attend an important seminar.

During my visit, I stayed in room number 342-B at second floor. After I attended my seminar, I came back to my room to rest. I put my papers in the side drawer of my bed. The papers are very important as it contains our company confidential information. Therefore, I need them on urgent basis.

I would like to request you to send these papers by post. I would be really thankful to you. Please do not forget the

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.0

The letter addresses all three bullet points: identifying the location of the papers, explaining their importance, and requesting action. However, the response is significantly under the 150-word minimum requirement, which limits the development of ideas. The explanation of why the papers are important is brief, and the letter ends abruptly mid-sentence, failing to provide a proper closing. To improve, you must expand on the details—such as describing the appearance of the papers or offering to cover postage costs—to ensure you meet the length requirement and provide a complete, professional response.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 5.5

The letter is organized into logical paragraphs, which helps the reader follow the narrative. However, the use of cohesive devices is quite basic and repetitive. For example, the transition between sentences often relies on simple structures. The abrupt ending of the letter severely impacts the overall coherence, as the text lacks a concluding paragraph or a formal sign-off. To improve, use a wider variety of linking words (e.g., 'consequently', 'furthermore', 'in addition') and ensure the letter is finished with a standard closing like 'Yours faithfully'.

Lexical Resource — Band 5.0

The vocabulary is functional but limited. You use basic phrases such as 'I am want to inform you' (which is grammatically incorrect) and 'I would be really thankful'. There is little attempt to use more sophisticated or precise vocabulary related to a business or formal context. To reach a higher band, try to incorporate more specific collocations and formal expressions, such as 'confidential documentation', 'misplaced', or 'kindly arrange for the return of'. Avoid repetitive phrasing and ensure your word choices are appropriate for a formal letter to a hotel manager.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.0

There are several noticeable grammatical errors that affect the flow of the text. Examples include 'I am want to inform you' (should be 'I would like to inform you'), 'I forget' (should be 'I forgot'), and 'satyed at one of yours hotel' (should be 'stayed at one of your hotels'). The sentence structures are predominantly simple, with limited attempts at complex sentences. The frequent errors in verb tense and word order require attention. Focusing on subject-verb agreement and consistent tense usage will significantly improve the clarity and accuracy of your writing.

See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.

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