Band 5.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 5.5 · Cambridge IELTS 17 · 2026-08-16

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 5.5)

The charts illustrate the average proportions of three types of nutrients in typical meals which all are unhealthy if taken excessively.

Sodium is present abundantly in dinner about 43% and about 14% which is the lowest of all, about 37% of saturated fat is found in dinner and 21% in snack and 42% added sugar is found in snack and 16% in breakfast.

First pie-chart demonstrates sodium quantity in dinner which is 43%, 29% in lunch, 14% in breakfast and snack.

Second pie chart displays the inadequate quantity of saturated fat in breakfast which is 16%, 26% in lunch, 37% in dinner and 21% in snack.

Lastly, the quantity of added sugar is excessively found in snack which is relatively 42%, 19% in lunch, scarcely 16% in breakfast and 23% in dinner.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.0

The response fails to meet the minimum word count requirement of 150 words, which significantly impacts the task achievement score. While you have identified the main features of the charts, the reporting is mechanical and lacks a clear overview or synthesis of the data. You have listed figures rather than comparing them effectively. To improve, you must ensure you provide a clear summary of the overall trends and ensure the response length is sufficient to fully develop the analysis. The current approach is too brief to adequately cover all parts of the task.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 5.5

The essay is organised into short paragraphs, which helps readability, but the logical progression is weak. The use of cohesive devices is limited and repetitive (e.g., 'First', 'Second', 'Lastly'). The sentences often feel like a list of data points rather than a cohesive report. To improve, you should use a wider range of linking words and phrases to connect your ideas more fluidly, such as 'In contrast', 'Similarly', or 'Regarding the data for...'. The current structure feels disjointed and lacks sophisticated transitions between the different nutrient categories.

Lexical Resource — Band 5.5

The vocabulary is somewhat repetitive and basic. You frequently use the word 'quantity' and 'found in', which limits the range of your writing. There is little evidence of less common lexical items or precise collocations. To achieve a higher band, try to vary your vocabulary by using synonyms and more descriptive language. For example, instead of saying 'quantity is found in', you could use 'account for', 'constitute', or 'make up'. Additionally, ensure your word choices are precise when describing statistical data.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.5

The sentence structures are mostly simple, and there are several grammatical errors, such as 'which all are unhealthy if taken excessively' and 'inadequate quantity of saturated fat'. The punctuation is also inconsistent in places. While the meaning is generally clear, the lack of complex sentence structures limits your ability to demonstrate grammatical control. To improve, focus on using a mix of simple and complex sentences, and pay closer attention to subject-verb agreement and the correct use of articles and prepositions.

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

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