General Writing Course: Task 1

📝 IELTS Writing Task 1 Scoring Explained

Understand how your letter is graded to maximize your band score

The 4 Scoring Criteria

1. Task Achievement +

This criterion evaluates how well you fulfill the requirements of the task:

Address all bullet points in the question
Clearly state your purpose for writing
Use appropriate tone (formal/semi-formal/informal)
Write at least 150 words

2. Coherence & Cohesion +

This assesses how logically organized your letter is:

Use clear paragraphs (one per main idea)
Use linking words appropriately
Ensure smooth flow between ideas

3. Lexical Resource +

This evaluates your vocabulary use:

Use a wide range of words
Choose words with precise meaning
Spell words correctly
Use appropriate formality

4. Grammatical Range & Accuracy +

This assesses your grammar skills:

Use variety of sentence structures
Maintain grammatical accuracy
Use correct punctuation

🔍 Band 6 vs Band 8 Comparison

Click the tabs below to compare sample answers

Band 6 Answer

Band 8 Answer

Dear Manager,
I am writing about the camera I bought from your store. The camera has a problem with the screen. When I take photos, the screen goes black. This is not good because I need the camera for my work.
I would like you to give me a new camera or my money back. I have the receipt. Please contact me soon to fix this problem.
Yours sincerely,
John Smith

Band 6 Features:

Addresses all bullet points but with basic detail
Simple paragraph structure with minimal linking
Some vocabulary repetition (“camera”, “problem”)
Mostly simple sentences with few errors

Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to formally complain about the Canon EOS 250D digital camera I purchased from your Oxford Street branch on 15th August. Regrettably, the device has developed a significant technical fault that renders it unusable for professional purposes.
The primary issue manifests when attempting to capture images, as the LCD screen inexplicably turns black immediately after pressing the shutter button, despite the battery being fully charged. This malfunction has caused substantial inconvenience, as I rely on this equipment for client assignments.
I would respectfully request either a replacement unit of equivalent specification or a full refund of the purchase price. For your reference, I have enclosed a copy of the original receipt. I would appreciate your confirmation of receipt of this complaint and resolution proposal by 30th August.
Yours sincerely,
John Smith

Band 8 Features:

Fully addresses all requirements with detailed explanations
Excellent paragraphing with sophisticated linking
Wide range of precise vocabulary (“technical fault”, “manifests”)
Varied sentence structures with high accuracy

Wipe to Reveal: Good vs Bad Examples

👆 Wipe to reveal the analysis

Letter A (Band 5-6)

Dear Manager,
I am writing this letter to complain about the camera I bought from your store last week. The camera is not working properly. When I try to take photos, the screen becomes black. I need this camera for my job, so this problem is very bad for me.
I want you to give me a new camera or give my money back. I still have the receipt. Please contact me soon to solve this problem.
Yours sincerely,
John Smith

Analysis:

Task Achievement: Basic requirements met but lacks detail
Coherence: Simple paragraph structure but no linking words
Vocabulary: Repeated words (“camera”, “problem”)
Grammar: Only simple sentence structures

Check Your Knowledge: 5 MCQs

1. What is the minimum word count for Task 1?

a) 100 words

b) 150 words

c) 200 words

d) 250 words

IELTS Writing Band Descriptors (Task 1)

Band	Task Achievement	Coherence & Cohesion	Lexical Resource	Grammatical Range
9	Fully satisfies all requirements	Seamless cohesion	Sophisticated vocabulary	Wide range, error-free
7	Clear overview, minor omissions	Logical organization	Sufficient range	Variety with some errors
6	Addresses requirements adequately	Clear organization	Adequate range	Mix of simple/complex with errors
5	Addresses task partially	Basic organization	Limited vocabulary	Basic structures, frequent errors

Remember: Each criterion is worth 25% of your total score.

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