Band 5.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 5.5 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-08-17
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 given graph illustrates the monthly typical change in prices of three metals for year 2014.
Overall, the price of all metals is highest at the beginning of the year after which it falls dramatically in mid of the year and remains fluctuating afterwards.
The nickel is the most costliest in the beginning of the year which is followed by copper and zinc. In the second month copper and nickel experience a fall from which the latter one is much dramatic. After this nickel prices dramatically sank again in the month of July, whereas the copper prices keep fluctuating with some minor differences afterwards. After July nickel and zinc prices rise slightly and then after facing a slight decrease in October they show a noticeable increase in November and then remain same till December.
We can say that the prices of these metals are astonishingly high at the beginning of the year but they fall dramatically in the mid of the year and keep fluctuating till the end.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 5.5 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 5.5 |
| Lexical Resource | 5.5 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 5.5 |
| Overall | 5.5 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.5
The response provides a clear overview of the trends, identifying the general decline in prices. However, the report lacks precision in referencing specific data points from the graph. For instance, you mention 'the second month' and 'July' but fail to provide the actual price values or the magnitude of the changes, which is essential for a Task 1 response. The description of the trends is somewhat repetitive, particularly in the conclusion, which restates the overview rather than synthesising the key features. To improve, ensure you include specific figures to support your observations and avoid vague descriptions like 'minor differences'.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 5.5
The essay is organised into logical paragraphs, which helps the reader follow the progression of ideas. However, the use of cohesive devices is somewhat mechanical and repetitive. Phrases like 'After this' and 'After July' are used frequently to start sentences, which limits the flow. The referencing is occasionally unclear; for example, 'the latter one' is used to refer back to a previous noun, but the sentence structure makes the connection slightly awkward. Improving the variety of linking words and ensuring smoother transitions between sentences would enhance the overall coherence of the response.
Lexical Resource — Band 5.5
The range of vocabulary is adequate for the task but lacks sophistication. You rely on basic descriptors such as 'highest', 'dramatically', and 'noticeable'. There are also some errors in word choice, such as 'most costliest' (a double superlative) and 'remain same', which should be 'remain the same'. To reach a higher band, focus on using more precise terminology related to trends, such as 'fluctuated', 'plummeted', or 'stabilised', and ensure correct grammatical forms of adjectives and adverbs are used consistently throughout your writing.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.5
The response uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures, but there are frequent grammatical errors that occasionally distract the reader. Issues include missing articles ('in mid of the year' should be 'in the middle of the year'), incorrect verb forms ('nickel prices... remain same'), and awkward phrasing ('the latter one is much dramatic'). While the meaning is generally clear, the frequency of these small errors prevents the writing from achieving a higher score. Focusing on subject-verb agreement and the correct use of articles will significantly improve the accuracy of your sentences.
See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.
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