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 graph below shows the number of shops that closed and the number of new shops that opened in one country between 2011 and 2018.

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

Number of shop closures and openings 2011– 2018

Student answer (Band 6.0)

The graph depicts the number of shops that closed and opened in one country from 2011 to 2018.

To begin with, the x-axis represents the time frame in years, whereas the y-axis represents the number of shops. We observe that from 2011 to 2012, both the graphs experience a downward trend. However, the number of shops opened has decreased sharply compared to the number of shops closed. Furthermore, both the graphs show a net upward trend from 2012 to 2014, with the number of shops opened increasing linearly, whereas the number of shops closed increased and then decreased slightly, maintaining the net positive trend. In addition, the number of shops closed reached its lowest in 2015, while the other graph decreased by roughly 2000 during that time span. Lastly, from 2015 to 2018, the number of shops closed increased drastically and recovered, followed by a slight decrease and increase, having a net minimal effect, whereas the number of shops opened remained constant until 2016, after which it slightly increased and then fell to 3000.

Overall, we observe that, from [redacted phone], the number of shops opened has a significant net downward delta, whereas the number of shops closed has a very small negative delta. These graphs have also shown similar trends and patterns in some time frames, while completely differing in others.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.5

The response covers the main features of the graph, including the overall trends and some specific data points. However, the analysis is somewhat inconsistent. For instance, the description of the period from 2015 to 2018 is confusing and lacks the precision required for a high band. While you identify the net trends, the report would benefit from more careful selection of data points to support your observations. You have successfully identified the main features, but the interpretation of the fluctuations could be more clearly linked to the actual figures provided in the graph to ensure the reader can follow the trends accurately.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.0

The response is logically organized into an introduction, body paragraphs, and an overview. You use cohesive devices such as 'To begin with', 'Furthermore', and 'In addition' to link ideas. However, some transitions feel slightly mechanical, and the progression within the final body paragraph is a bit cluttered, making it difficult to follow the specific movements of the two lines. Paragraphing is used appropriately, and there is a clear overall progression from the start to the end of the report.

Lexical Resource — Band 5.5

You demonstrate an adequate range of vocabulary for the task, using terms like 'downward trend', 'linearly', and 'net positive trend'. There are some instances where word choice could be more precise, such as 'net downward delta' and 'net minimal effect', which are slightly awkward in this context. While the vocabulary is sufficient to convey the main points, it lacks the sophistication and flexibility required for a higher band. The use of 'drastically' and 'recovered' is acceptable, but more varied reporting verbs would enhance the quality of the description.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.0

You use a mix of simple and complex sentence structures, such as 'We observe that from 2011 to 2012, both the graphs experience a downward trend.' While there are some minor grammatical slips, such as the phrasing 'both the graphs', the meaning remains clear throughout. Most sentences are error-free, and the punctuation is generally accurate. To achieve a higher band, you should aim for a greater variety of complex structures and ensure that your sentence construction remains fluid even when describing complex data movements.

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

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