Band 5.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 5.0 · Cambridge IELTS 17 · 2026-08-11
IELTS Writing Task 1 question
The charts below show the average percentages in typical meals of three types of nutrients, all of which may be unhealthy if eaten too much.
Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.
Average percentages of sodium, saturated fats and added sugars in typical meals consumed in the USA
Student answer (Band 5.0)
The pie chart illustrates the average proportion of of different meals , namely sodium, saturated fat nd added sugar of nutrients , all of which may be unhealthy if eaten too much , consumed in the USA. All of them dinner accounts the highest consumption of all nutrients , which is bout 43% and breakfast contributes less whereas lunch and snacks intakes higher then breakfast . Looking first on sodium dinner makes up highest proportion of nutrient which is about 43% , while lunch contributes much lower about 29% , whereas snacks and breakfast contains less proportion which is almost same likely 14% . saturated fat , dinner intakes highest proportion again about 37% , lunch contributes 26% ,while snacks are much lower it contains 21% ,whereas breakfast contributes 16% . last nd least added sugar is totally different where snacks makes up highest proportion of nutrients which is about 43% ,while dinner intakes 23% whereas lunch and breakfast contributes 16 to 19% respectively.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 5.5 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 5.0 |
| Lexical Resource | 5.0 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 5.0 |
| Overall | 5.0 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.5
The response covers the main features of the charts, identifying key trends for sodium, saturated fats, and added sugars. However, the overview is weak; it attempts to group all nutrients together, which is inaccurate as the trends differ significantly (e.g., added sugars peak at snacks, while the others peak at dinner). The report is somewhat repetitive, and the data presentation lacks a clear, analytical structure. To improve, you should provide a more distinct overview that highlights the contrasting patterns between the nutrients rather than just listing data points. The inclusion of all three categories is present, but the analysis of the relationships between them could be more sophisticated.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 5.0
The response is presented as a single block of text, which significantly hinders readability and logical progression. There is a lack of paragraphing to separate the introduction/overview from the body paragraphs. While some cohesive devices like 'while' and 'whereas' are used, they are often repetitive and sometimes misused, leading to a mechanical feel. The flow of information is disjointed, making it difficult for the reader to follow the comparisons between the three charts. Using clear paragraph breaks and a wider variety of linking words would greatly improve the structure and logical flow of your writing.
Lexical Resource — Band 5.0
The vocabulary is somewhat limited and repetitive, relying heavily on basic terms like 'highest proportion', 'contributes', and 'intakes'. There are several instances of awkward phrasing and word choice, such as 'last nd least' and 'intakes highest proportion'. Spelling errors, such as 'nd' for 'and' and 'bout' for 'about', are frequent and detract from the professional tone required for an Academic Task 1 response. To reach a higher band, you should aim to use more precise synonyms for data trends, such as 'constitutes', 'accounts for', or 'represents', and ensure accurate spelling throughout.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.0
The response contains frequent grammatical errors, particularly regarding subject-verb agreement and sentence structure. Examples include 'dinner accounts the highest consumption' (missing 'for') and 'snacks intakes higher then breakfast' (incorrect verb form and comparative structure). Punctuation is also problematic, with inconsistent spacing around commas and periods. The range of structures is limited, consisting mostly of simple or poorly connected clauses. To improve, focus on mastering basic sentence construction, ensuring correct verb forms, and refining your use of comparative structures (e.g., 'higher than' instead of 'higher then').
See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.
Browse more IELTS Writing model answers or get your own writing scored by the same AI examiner.