Band 5.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 5.0 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-08-13

IELTS Writing Task 1 question

The graph below gives information about the number of jobs in four sectors of the economy in the US between 1960 and 2020.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

Number of jobs in four sectors of the economy in the US, 1960-2020

Student answer (Band 5.0)

The graph provides data about the number of jobs in various sectors of the economy in the

US from 1960 and 2020.

Overall, it is evident that retail and agriculture jobs experienced an upward trend during the period, whereas manufacturing and healthcare fluctuated throughout the period.

In 1960, the number of jobs in the retaining sector started at around 6 million, followed by the agriculture sector which began at 2 million. The retaining sector rose dramatically at 15 million over the next four decades, and the agriculture sector also increased sharply throughout the period in 2000. The retaining sector increased slightly just over 16 million, whereas the agriculture sector jumped at over the retaining sector at 16 million.

There was a sharp rise in the manufacturing sector in the beginning of the period, whereas it plunged steadily at around 13 million at the end of the period. However, the agriculture sector experienced a steady fall just under 4 million, and it remained stable over the next two decades. There was a marginal decrease by around one million, and it reached 3 million in 2020,

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.0

The response covers the main features of the graph, but there are significant inaccuracies in the data reporting. For instance, the description of the 'retaining' (retail) sector and agriculture trends is confusing and contradicts the visual data provided. The overview is present but lacks clarity due to these factual errors. While the response attempts to compare the sectors, the lack of precision in interpreting the figures prevents it from reaching a higher band. To improve, ensure that the data points cited accurately reflect the trends shown in the graph and avoid contradictory statements.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 5.5

The essay is organised into paragraphs, which helps the reader follow the structure. However, the use of cohesive devices is sometimes mechanical or misused, such as the transition 'in 2000' which does not logically connect the preceding clause. The progression of ideas is occasionally hindered by confusing references to the sectors. While there is an overall attempt at logical sequencing, the lack of clear, accurate links between the data points makes the flow feel disjointed at times. Improving the variety and accuracy of linking words would enhance the coherence of the response.

Lexical Resource — Band 5.0

The range of vocabulary is limited and repetitive. There are also issues with word choice, such as using 'retaining' instead of 'retail' and 'plunged steadily', which is a contradictory collocation. The vocabulary used is generally basic and sometimes inaccurate, which impacts the clarity of the report. To improve, you should focus on using more precise terminology related to data description (e.g., 'fluctuated', 'peaked', 'remained stable') and ensure that the terms used are contextually appropriate for an economic report.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.0

The response contains a mix of simple and complex sentence structures, but there are frequent grammatical errors. Examples include 'from 1960 and 2020' (should be 'between 1960 and 2020'), 'jumped at over the retaining sector', and 'plunged steadily at around 13 million'. These errors, while not always impeding communication, are frequent enough to be noticeable. The punctuation is also inconsistent, particularly with the comma usage at the end of the final sentence. Focusing on subject-verb agreement and correct preposition usage would significantly improve the accuracy of your writing.

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