Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-08-12

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 7.5)

The line graph illustrates the average monthly changes in the prices of copper, nickel and zinc in 2014, compared with the previous month.

Overall nickel experienced the most significant fluctuations, while copper showed the most stable pattern throughout the year. All three metals generally declined during the first half of the year, before recovering towards the end.

In January, the price of nickel recorded the highest increase, at 6%, while copper and zinc rose by 2% and 1%, respectively. Nickel then fell sharply to 4% in February and 1% in March, before remaining at around 1% in April. Zinc, meanwhile, reached a peak of 3% in February and then gradually declined.

From May to June, all three metals experienced decreases. Nickel fell dramatically from around 0.5% to -3%, its lowest point of the year. Copper also dropped to approximately -0.5%, while zinc decreased to -1%. Between July and September, copper recovered and remained at about 1%, whereas nickel stayed at approximately -1% and zinc at around -0.5%.

In October, nickel reached another low of -2%, but all three metals recovered considerably in November and December. By December, zinc had the highest increase, at roughly 2%, followed by copper at around 1.5% and nickel at 1%.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The response effectively addresses all parts of the task. You have provided a clear overview of the trends and successfully selected key features, such as the initial decline and the year-end recovery. Comparisons are made throughout, for instance, by noting that nickel experienced the most significant fluctuations while copper remained stable. The data is accurately reported, and the structure allows for a logical progression of information. To reach a higher band, ensure that all data points mentioned are clearly supported by the graph, as some specific percentages (e.g., the exact low points) require careful interpretation to ensure complete accuracy.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The response is well-organized with a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and a summary. Ideas are logically sequenced, moving from a general overview to specific monthly trends. Cohesive devices such as 'meanwhile', 'whereas', and 'by December' are used effectively to link ideas and create a smooth flow. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate different time periods, which helps the reader follow the narrative of the price changes. The progression of information is clear throughout the text, making it easy to follow the analysis of the three metals.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.0

You demonstrate a good range of vocabulary appropriate for describing trends, such as 'fluctuations', 'stable pattern', 'declined', 'recovering', and 'dramatically'. The use of these terms is precise and enhances the clarity of the report. There are no significant spelling or word-choice errors that impede communication. To improve further, you could incorporate more sophisticated collocations or varied synonyms for 'increase' and 'decrease' to show even greater flexibility in your lexical range, although the current vocabulary is already sufficient for a high band.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The writing displays a good variety of complex structures, such as the use of subordinate clauses ('while copper showed the most stable pattern') and participial phrases ('before recovering towards the end'). The majority of sentences are error-free, and punctuation is handled correctly. There are no major grammatical slips that cause confusion. The control over tense and sentence structure is consistent, which allows for a professional and academic tone throughout the report. The grammar is accurate and supports the clear communication of the data.

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