Band 5.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 5.5 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-08-27

IELTS Writing Task 1 question

The chart below shows the number of households in the US by their annual income in 2007, 2011 and 2015.

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

Student answer (Band 5.5)

The bar graph illustrates the annual income of US households in 2007,2011 and 2015.

Overall, the income range of 50,000-74,999$ remain constant throughout the periods, and income range of 75,000$-99,999$ fluctuated relatively lesser then other income range. Income range of 100,000 or more consisted highest number of households in 2007 and 2015.

First income group, consisted 25 millions of US households in 2007, while, in 2011, it jumped up to approximately 28 millions households, at last, in 2015, it dropped up to 27 millions households. Similarly, income range of 25,000$-49,999$ also followed same pattern, in 2007, it was around 26 millions households, in 2007, it reached its peak 30 millions households, and dropped noticeably at the end. However, income range of 50,000-74,999$ remain unchanged.

Income range of 75,000$-99,000$ followed different pattern, at first, it was around 14 millions of households in 2007, in 2011, it decreased significantly up ot o

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.0

The response attempts to summarize the main features of the chart, but it is incomplete as the text cuts off abruptly at the end. While you identify some trends, the analysis of the data is inconsistent. For instance, you mention the 50,000-74,999$ range remains constant, but the data shows fluctuations. Furthermore, the description of the first income group is confusing, and the final paragraph is unfinished, preventing a full overview of the data. To improve, ensure all data points are accurately reported and the summary is fully developed before concluding.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 5.5

The essay is organized into paragraphs, which is a positive step. However, the logical progression is hindered by the incomplete nature of the final paragraph. Cohesive devices are used, such as 'Similarly' and 'However', but they are sometimes used incorrectly or in a repetitive manner. The referencing is occasionally unclear, particularly when referring to 'First income group' without specifying the exact range. To improve, focus on using a wider variety of linking words and ensure that each paragraph has a clear, completed thought.

Lexical Resource — Band 5.5

The range of vocabulary is limited and somewhat repetitive. You rely heavily on basic phrases like 'income range of' and 'number of households'. There are also errors in word choice and formatting, such as 'fluctuated relatively lesser then' (should be 'less than') and the inconsistent placement of the dollar sign. The vocabulary is sufficient to convey basic meaning, but it lacks the precision and variety required for a higher band score. Try to incorporate more varied reporting verbs and adjectives to describe trends.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.0

The response contains a mix of simple and some attempted complex structures, but there are frequent grammatical errors. Examples include 'income range of 50,000-74,999$ remain constant' (subject-verb agreement error: 'remains'), 'consisted highest number' (missing article 'the'), and 'it dropped up to' (incorrect preposition usage). Punctuation is also inconsistent, particularly with the placement of dollar signs and commas. While these errors do not always impede communication, they are frequent enough to lower the score. Focus on subject-verb agreement and correct article usage.

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

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