Band 9.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 9.0 · Cambridge IELTS 13 · 2026-08-08

IELTS Writing Task 1 question

A friend you made while you were studying abroad has written to ask you for help in finding a job in your country. You have heard about a job in a local company that might be suitable for him/her.

Write a letter to this friend. In your letter

• tell your friend about the job and what sort of work it involves
• say why you think the job would be suitable for him/her
• explain how to apply for the job

You do NOT need to write any addresses.

Begin your letter as follows:

Dear ................. ,

Student answer (Band 9.0)

Dear Sarah,

I hope you are doing well! It was so wonderful to receive your letter last week. I often think back to the amazing times we shared during our study abroad semester, and I am absolutely thrilled to hear that you are planning to relocate to my country for work.I actually have some great news. A local tech company called Apex Solutions is currently looking for an International Account Executive, and I instantly thought of you. The role primarily involves managing communications with their overseas clients, coordinating cross-border marketing campaigns, and onboarding new businesses into their digital platform. It is a dynamic position that requires a lot of collaboration across different time zones.

I am confident this job is perfect for you because of your background. Since you are fluent in both English and Spanish, you will easily bridge the communication gap for their growing South American market. Furthermore, your degree in international business and the global perspective you gained while we were studying together will give you a massive advantage over other local applicants.Applying is quite simple. You need to email your updated resume and a cover letter directly to their HR department at [redacted email]. Make sure to highlight your language skills and previous internship experience. I also highly recommend that you attach a copy of your university transcripts to showcase your academic achievements.Let me know if you need me to review your resume before you submit it. I really hope everything works out so we can catch up in person soon!Warm regards,Alex

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 9.0

The response fully addresses all parts of the task. You clearly described the job at Apex Solutions, explained why it is suitable for your friend by referencing her language skills and academic background, and provided clear, actionable steps for the application process. The tone is consistently appropriate for a letter to a friend, maintaining a friendly and supportive register throughout. The ideas are well-developed and logically extended, ensuring the reader understands both the nature of the role and the rationale behind your recommendation. You have successfully met all requirements of the prompt.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 9.0

The letter is well-organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph serves a distinct purpose, moving logically from the greeting and context to the job details, the justification, and finally the call to action. Cohesive devices such as 'Furthermore', 'Since', and 'I also highly recommend' are used naturally to link sentences and ideas. The paragraphing is logical and contributes to the overall readability of the letter. There is a smooth flow between the personal opening and the professional information provided, making the transition feel natural and coherent.

Lexical Resource — Band 9.0

You demonstrate a wide and flexible range of vocabulary that is highly appropriate for the context. Phrases such as 'relocate to my country', 'cross-border marketing campaigns', 'bridge the communication gap', and 'global perspective' show a sophisticated command of language. The word choice is precise and contributes to the professional yet friendly tone of the letter. There are no noticeable errors in spelling or word formation, and the use of collocations is natural and accurate throughout the text.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 9.0

The response exhibits a wide range of grammatical structures with high accuracy. You effectively use complex sentences, such as 'Since you are fluent in both English and Spanish, you will easily bridge the communication gap...', and maintain control over verb tenses and punctuation. The majority of sentences are error-free, and the few minor slips that might occur in a draft are not present here. The use of modal verbs and conditional structures is handled with precision, ensuring that the advice and suggestions are communicated clearly and effectively.

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

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