Band 9.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 9.0 · Cambridge IELTS 14 · 2026-07-30

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.

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

Student answer (Band 9.0)

The three pie charts compare the average proportions of sodium, saturated fat and added sugar contained in four distinct meals consumed in the USA, namely breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks.

Overall, dinner accounts for the highest proportions of both sodium and saturated fat, whereas snacks contain by far the largest percentage of added sugar. By contrast, breakfast consistently contributes the smallest share of all three nutrients.

Regarding sodium, dinner makes up the largest proportion, at 43%, followed by lunch with 29%. In contrast, both breakfast and snacks account for an identical share of 14% each. A similar pattern can be observed for saturated fat, with dinner again representing the greatest proportion at 37%, while lunch contributes 26%. Snacks make up 21%, leaving breakfast as the smallest contributor at 16%.

The distribution of added sugar differs considerably from the other two nutrients. Snacks are by far the largest source, accounting for 42%, almost twice the figure for dinner, which stands at 23%. Lunch contributes a relatively modest 19%, whereas breakfast once again records the lowest proportion, at 16%.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 9.0

The response is excellent. You have successfully identified and reported the main features of the charts, including the key trends and significant comparisons. The overview is clear and effectively highlights the most striking differences between the nutrient distributions. You have selected relevant data points to support your descriptions, such as the specific percentages for dinner and snacks. The information is accurate and fully addresses all parts of the prompt, providing a comprehensive summary without unnecessary detail. The structure is logical, moving from a general overview to specific nutrient breakdowns, which demonstrates a clear understanding of the task requirements.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 9.0

The response is well-organized and flows logically. Each paragraph has a clear focus, and the progression of ideas is smooth. You have used a variety of cohesive devices effectively, such as 'By contrast,' 'Regarding sodium,' and 'A similar pattern can be observed.' These transitions help the reader navigate the information easily. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate the introduction, overview, and the detailed analysis of the nutrients. The referencing is precise, and there is no evidence of mechanical or repetitive phrasing, making the text very easy to follow.

Lexical Resource — Band 8.5

You demonstrate a strong command of vocabulary, using precise terms such as 'proportions,' 'consistently contributes,' 'distribution,' and 'modest.' The language is natural and appropriate for an academic report. You avoid repetition by using varied synonyms and structures to describe the data. There are no spelling errors, and your word choices are accurate throughout the text. The use of 'by far the largest' and 'relatively modest' shows a good ability to convey nuance in data description, which is a hallmark of higher-level writing.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 9.0

Your grammar is highly accurate, with a wide range of complex sentence structures used effectively. You successfully employ subordinate clauses and comparative structures, such as 'whereas snacks contain by far the largest percentage' and 'almost twice the figure for dinner, which stands at 23%.' Punctuation is used correctly to support the clarity of your sentences. There are no noticeable grammatical errors, and the control over tense and subject-verb agreement is consistent. The writing is sophisticated and error-free, meeting the criteria for a high band score.

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