Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.5 · Cambridge IELTS 17 · 2026-09-02

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 6.5)

The graph illustrates the number of shops closures and opening in a single country from 2011 to 2018.

overall, the number of shops that closed and the number that opened both saw a large number of fluctuations during the specified period of time. However, closing outpaced opening in all years except for 2011 and 2015.

The number of shops that closed fluctuated between roughly 6000 and 7000 during the first four year of the period, after which it fell sharply to its lowest point, about 600 in 2015. However, this number rose significantly to approximately 5000 the following year and stayed at this level until the end of the period.

In 2011, around 8500 shops opened, which resulted in 2000 net openings. After a steep drop down to 4000 in 2012, openings made a rebound, reaching nearly the same level as closings in 2014 at just over 6000. This figure then dropped again to its 2012 level in 2015, where it remained until it decreased further to an all-time low at 3000 in 2018.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.5

The response covers all parts of the task well. You have identified the main trends and provided a clear overview of the data. The comparison between closures and openings is handled effectively, and you have selected key data points to support your descriptions. The information is accurate and relevant to the graph provided. To reach a higher band, ensure that all data points are described with maximum precision; for instance, the description of the 2015 closure figure as 'about 600' is slightly inaccurate given the visual evidence, which suggests a higher value. Overall, the report is well-structured and fulfills the requirements of the task.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.0

The response is logically organized with a clear introduction, an overview, and two body paragraphs. The progression of ideas is smooth, and you have used cohesive devices such as 'however', 'after which', and 'the following year' to link information effectively. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate the overview from the detailed analysis. The referencing is generally clear, although the transition between the overview and the body could be slightly more refined. The flow of information is easy to follow, and the structure supports the reader's understanding of the trends presented in the graph.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.0

You have used a sufficient range of vocabulary to describe the trends, such as 'fluctuated', 'outpaced', 'steep drop', and 'rebound'. This allows for some flexibility and precision in your writing. There are occasional minor errors, such as 'shops closures' (should be 'shop closures') and 'first four year' (should be 'first four years'). While you have successfully used some less common items, the vocabulary is generally functional rather than highly sophisticated. To improve, focus on ensuring consistent accuracy in pluralization and collocation to enhance the professional tone of your report.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.5

The response demonstrates a mix of simple and complex sentence structures. You have used complex sentences effectively, such as 'In 2011, around 8500 shops opened, which resulted in 2000 net openings.' There are a few grammatical slips, such as the missing plural in 'first four year' and the minor error in 'shops closures'. However, these errors are infrequent and do not impede communication. The punctuation is generally accurate, and the sentence variety is sufficient for the task. Continued practice with complex structures will help you achieve greater accuracy and fluency.

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