Band 5.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 5.5 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-08-09

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 5.5)

The graph illustrates the change in proportions occurred in three metals during period the period of 2014.

Overall, it is evident that Nickle accounted for the highest drop in percentage, whereas zinc had on second number. Copper almost remained the same with very few fluctuations.

Initially, in start of year Nickle metal had the greatest price, the figure stood at 6%. Furthermore, the ratio decreased gradually and the lowest price was recorded in June which was -3%. The figure got stable again at 1% in December. In addition, charges of zinc metal rose significantly and figure peaked at 3% in Feb. The declined was recorded through out the period and sustained at 2% in last month of the year.

In contrast, prices of copper metal were fluctuated through the year. The highest proportion was noticed at% 2 in first month of the year while in the end of 2014, the proportion was approximately 1.5%.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.5

The response provides a general overview and identifies some key features, such as the trends for nickel and zinc. However, the analysis is inconsistent. For instance, you describe nickel starting at 6% and dropping to -3%, but the graph shows the data points are monthly changes, not absolute prices. The description of copper is also vague, stating it 'remained the same' despite showing fluctuations. To improve, ensure you accurately interpret the data labels (monthly change) and provide more precise comparisons between the three metals throughout the year rather than just listing individual trends.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 5.5

The essay is organised into paragraphs, which helps the reader follow the structure. You use some cohesive devices like 'In contrast', 'Furthermore', and 'In addition' to link ideas. However, the progression of information is sometimes disjointed, and the use of cohesive devices can feel mechanical. Referencing is occasionally unclear, such as the phrase 'zinc had on second number', which is grammatically awkward and hinders the flow. Improving the variety of linking words and ensuring that each paragraph has a clear, unified focus would enhance the overall coherence.

Lexical Resource — Band 5.5

The vocabulary is generally adequate for the task, but it lacks the precision required for a higher band. There are several instances of awkward phrasing and word choice errors, such as 'change in proportions occurred', 'charges of zinc', and 'the figure got stable'. These errors occasionally make the meaning slightly unclear. To reach a higher band, you should focus on using more precise terminology related to data description, such as 'fluctuations', 'volatility', or 'downward trend', and ensure that collocations are natural and accurate.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.5

The response contains a mix of simple and complex sentence structures, but there are frequent grammatical errors that distract the reader. Examples include 'in start of year', 'the declined was recorded', and 'prices of copper metal were fluctuated'. These errors, along with issues regarding articles and verb forms, indicate a lack of control over complex structures. While the meaning is generally understandable, the frequency of these errors prevents the writing from reaching a higher band. Focusing on subject-verb agreement and correct article usage will significantly improve your accuracy.

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

Browse more IELTS Writing model answers or get your own writing scored by the same AI examiner.