Band 6.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 6.0 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-08-19
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 6.0)
The given line graph illustrates the average proportion of price change for three metals: zinc, nickel, and copper compared with their previous months during the year 2014.
Overall, there are significant modifications in the rates of metals is evident. Nickel experienced dramatic changes in the price percentage. However, the other two metals zinc and copper were less prominent in terms of price changes compared to nickel.
In January, the popularity of nickel is significant, followed by copper and zinc. But in latter months, the nickel's rate is dramatically dropped until June, later which it experienced a rise to -1% and was stable till September. Further it fallen a short in October to -2% and rose again to 1% in November and December.
On the other hand, copper begin with 2% price in January, experienced a similar pattern as of nickel. The price is decreased drastically till May and June then raising in July to 1% for straight 3 months until September and ended up in between 1 and 2%. Whereas, zinc unlike the other two metals initially raised to 3% from 1%. Later the cost dropped then it experienced a hike in October.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 6.0 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 6.0 |
| Lexical Resource | 5.5 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 5.5 |
| Overall | 6.0 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.0
The response covers the main features of the graph, identifying the trends for the three metals. However, the analysis is somewhat inconsistent. For instance, the description of nickel's fluctuations is a bit confusing, and the summary of zinc is incomplete, failing to mention its performance in the latter half of the year. While the overview is present, it lacks precision in comparing the metals effectively. To reach a higher band, ensure that all data points mentioned are accurate and that the comparison between the three metals is more balanced throughout the report.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.0
The response is organized into paragraphs, which helps the reader follow the information. However, the use of cohesive devices is sometimes mechanical or slightly awkward, such as 'later which it experienced' or 'further it fallen a short'. The progression of ideas is generally logical, but the transition between the description of nickel and copper could be smoother. The referencing is occasionally unclear, making it difficult to track which metal is being discussed at certain points. Improving the variety and accuracy of linking words would enhance the flow of the text.
Lexical Resource — Band 5.5
The vocabulary used is adequate for the task, but it lacks the precision and sophistication required for higher bands. There are some inaccuracies in word choice, such as 'modifications' instead of 'fluctuations' or 'variations', and 'popularity' is an inappropriate term for metal prices. Phrases like 'fallen a short' and 'raising in July' indicate a limited control over collocations and verb forms. To improve, focus on using more precise terminology related to data trends, such as 'volatility', 'decline', 'surge', or 'plateaued'.
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 occasionally impede clarity. Examples include 'there are significant modifications... is evident', 'nickel's rate is dramatically dropped', and 'copper begin with'. These errors in subject-verb agreement and tense usage are noticeable. While the meaning is generally understandable, the frequency of these errors prevents the writing from reaching a higher band. Focusing on consistent verb tenses and correct sentence construction will significantly improve the quality of the writing.
See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.
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