Band 6.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.0 · Cambridge IELTS 17 · 2026-08-25

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 6.0)

The charts depict the average percentages of sodium, saturated fat, and added sugar in typical meals consumed in the USA.

Overall, it is clear that dinner contains the highest proportions of these nutrients. In contrast, breakfast contains the lowest percentages of most of these nutrients. However, lunch and snacks also contain considerable amounts of these nutrients.

Dinner contains the largest proportion of sodium, accounting for 43%, while lunch accounts for 29%. In contrast, breakfast and snacks contain a similar amount of sodium, at 14% each. In addition, 37% of the saturated fat is consumed during dinner, while lunch accounts for 26%. Snacks contain 21% of saturated fat, compared with only 16% in breakfast.

In terms of added sugar, snacks have the highest proportion, accounting for 42%. Dinner accounts for 23%, while lunch and breakfast contain 19% and 16%, respectively.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.5

The response covers all three nutrients and provides a clear overview of the main trends. However, the response is 139 words long, failing to meet the 150-word minimum requirement. This under-length significantly impacts the ability to fully develop the analysis or provide a more comprehensive comparison. While the key features are identified, the lack of sufficient length prevents the response from reaching a higher band. To improve, ensure you expand on the data points by adding more comparative analysis or by providing a more detailed summary of the implications of the data.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5

The response is logically organized, with a clear introduction, an overview paragraph, and two body paragraphs focusing on specific nutrients. Cohesive devices such as 'In contrast', 'In addition', and 'In terms of' are used effectively to link ideas. The progression of information is clear and easy to follow. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate the different categories of nutrients. The structure is sound, though the brevity of the response limits the complexity of the cohesive links that could have been established.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.0

The vocabulary is accurate and appropriate for the task, using terms like 'proportions', 'accounting for', and 'consumed'. The range is sufficient to convey the information clearly. There are no significant spelling or word-choice errors. While the vocabulary is functional and precise, it lacks a wider range of less common lexical items that would demonstrate a more sophisticated command of the language. Incorporating more varied synonyms for 'contains' or 'accounts for' would enhance the lexical profile.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.5

The response demonstrates good control over sentence structure, with a mix of simple and complex sentences. Grammar and punctuation are generally accurate throughout the text. There are no major errors that impede communication. The use of comparative structures is consistent and correct. To achieve a higher band, you could incorporate a wider variety of complex grammatical structures, such as passive voice constructions or more varied subordinate clauses, to demonstrate greater flexibility.

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.