Band 5.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 5.0 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-08-03
IELTS Writing Task 1 question
The graph below shows the average monthly change in the prices of three metals during 2014.
Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.
Average monthly change in prices of copper, nickel and zinc (2014)
Student answer (Band 5.0)
The line graph represents the median monthly exchange in the costs of three metals; copper, nickel and zinc in 2014.
Overall, it displays the average monthly change in prices of copper, nickel and zinc from January to December and followed by comparison of percentage during 2014.
In the month of January the price of copper, nickel and zinc were begin in 2014. Firstly, the nickel had been in lead 6% from remaining metals. Moreover, as the time is changing in the month of June the percentage of nickel price is completely decreased to -3%, again it degrades to -2% in October finally, in December it ends to 1%.
On the other hand, copper and zinc costs started from 1% and 2%. In contrast, copper has been downfall to -0.5% in the month of June. Whereas, zinc first increases and degrades to -1% in June. In the end they both have achieved little higher percentage when compared to nickel. As a result, June month has become the turning point to metals for increase in percentage rate.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 5.0 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 5.5 |
| Lexical Resource | 5.0 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 5.0 |
| Overall | 5.0 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.0
The response covers the main features of the graph, such as the starting points and the general trends for the three metals. However, the analysis is somewhat superficial and lacks precision in reporting data points. For instance, describing the nickel price as 'in lead 6%' is unclear, and the description of the trends is occasionally confusing, such as stating 'as the time is changing in the month of June'. While the main features are identified, the comparison between the metals is not fully developed, and the overall summary is slightly repetitive. To improve, ensure that data points are clearly linked to specific months and that the language used to describe trends is more accurate and professional.
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 often mechanical or misused. Phrases like 'Firstly' and 'Moreover' are used, but the logical flow between sentences is frequently interrupted by awkward phrasing. The referencing is sometimes unclear, particularly when referring to 'remaining metals' or 'they both'. The progression of ideas is present but lacks the sophistication required for a higher band. Improving the variety and accuracy of linking words and ensuring that each paragraph has a clear, singular focus would significantly enhance the coherence of the response.
Lexical Resource — Band 5.0
The vocabulary is adequate for the task but lacks the precision and variety expected at higher levels. There are several instances of awkward word choices, such as 'median monthly exchange' instead of 'average monthly change', and 'degrades' or 'downfall' used incorrectly to describe price movements. The range is limited, and the student relies on basic descriptors. To achieve a higher score, the student should focus on using more precise terminology for describing trends, such as 'fluctuated', 'declined', 'peaked', or 'remained stable', and avoid using words that do not fit the context of financial data.
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 that occasionally impede clarity. Examples include 'the price of copper, nickel and zinc were begin in 2014' (subject-verb agreement and tense error) and 'June month has become the turning point' (unnatural phrasing). Punctuation is generally functional, but the sentence construction is often clunky. To improve, the student needs to focus on basic tense consistency and subject-verb agreement. Practising the construction of complex sentences using subordinating conjunctions would also help to increase the range and accuracy of the grammar used.
See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.
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