Band 6.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 6.0 · Cambridge IELTS 13 · 2026-08-06
IELTS Writing Task 1 question
The system used for rubbish/garbage collection in your local area is not working properly. This is causing problems for you and your neighbours. Write a letter to the local council. In your letter
- describe how the rubbish collection system is not working properly
- explain how this is affecting you and your neighbours
- suggest what should be done about the problem
You do NOT need to write any addresses.
Begin your letter as follows:
Dear Sir or Madam,
Student answer (Band 6.0)
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to formally express my dissatisfaction with the garbage Collection service.
To begin with, The system that is used to Collect the rubbish in my local area is not working, i do not know what happened, but it stops completely. such shortcomings are unacceptable and have caused significant inconvenience not only for me, but also for neighbours as the area is smelling so bad that people are not able to breath properly. Moreover, since system is not working, could create infection and some kind of virus if that situation would not be solved soon.
In light of the above, I would appreciate it if you could take immediate steps to rectify this matter. I would also expect replacement of the system and compensation for this stressful condition.
I look forward to your prompt response.
Yours faithfully.
Fateh singh
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 5.5 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 6.0 |
| Lexical Resource | 6.0 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 5.5 |
| Overall | 6.0 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.5
The letter covers all three bullet points: describing the issue, explaining the impact, and suggesting a solution. However, the response is under the 150-word minimum, which negatively impacts the development of ideas. The explanation of the impact is somewhat brief, and the suggestion for 'replacement of the system' is a bit vague. To improve, you should expand on the specific nature of the collection failure (e.g., missed dates, overflowing bins) and provide more detailed, realistic suggestions for the council to resolve the situation. The tone is generally appropriate for a formal letter, but the brevity prevents a higher score.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.0
The letter is organized into logical paragraphs, which helps the reader follow the structure. You use basic cohesive devices like 'To begin with', 'Moreover', and 'In light of the above' to transition between ideas. However, the flow is occasionally interrupted by grammatical errors and awkward phrasing, such as 'since system is not working, could create...'. To improve, ensure that your sentences are linked more smoothly and avoid repetitive sentence structures. Using a wider variety of cohesive devices would also help to improve the overall flow and logical progression of your argument.
Lexical Resource — Band 6.0
The vocabulary used is generally adequate for the task, allowing you to communicate your message clearly. You use some relevant terms like 'formally express my dissatisfaction', 'inconvenience', and 'rectify'. However, there are some inaccuracies in word choice and collocation, such as 'breath properly' (should be 'breathe') and 'stressful condition'. The range of vocabulary is somewhat limited, relying on fairly common expressions. To reach a higher band, try to incorporate more precise and varied vocabulary related to municipal services and environmental issues, and pay closer attention to word forms and spelling.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.5
The letter contains a mix of simple and complex sentence structures, but there are frequent errors in grammar and punctuation that occasionally impede readability. For example, there are issues with article usage ('the garbage Collection service'), capitalization ('The system', 'Collect'), and subject-verb agreement ('since system is not working, could create'). Additionally, the sentence 'if that situation would not be solved soon' is grammatically incorrect. To improve, focus on mastering basic sentence construction, including correct article usage and verb tenses. Proofreading for minor slips in capitalization and punctuation will also significantly improve the quality of your writing.
See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.
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