Band 6.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 6.0 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-08-21
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 provided line graph illustrates the average monthly change in prices of three metals namely; Copper, Nickel and Zinc in 2014.
Overall, all three metals went through significant fluctuations over the period but ended at a similar level. Even though Nickel started off with the highest proportion on the chart, it dropped to the last position by the end of the year after much fluctuation whereas, other two metals experienced less growth.
The Nickel began with 6% change in price in January, the highest figure on the chart, but plummeted to negative 3% in June, the lowest figure on the chart. However, it increased in the next month to negative 1% and plateaued at this level for the next 2 months before facing another drop but quickly rose to 1% by the end of the period.
By contrast, Copper and Zinc commenced at 2% and 1% respectively, but exchanged their position by the end of the year to 2% and over 1%, respectively after experiencing er
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 5.5 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 6.0 |
| Lexical Resource | 6.0 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 6.0 |
| Overall | 6.0 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.5
The response provides a clear overview of the main trends and selects key features for comparison. However, the response is incomplete, as it cuts off mid-sentence at the end of the final paragraph ('after experiencing er'). This failure to complete the description of the data significantly impacts the task achievement, as the final comparison is left unfinished. While the initial overview and the description of Nickel are accurate and well-selected, the lack of a full summary of the remaining data prevents the response from reaching a higher band. To improve, ensure that all data points are fully described and that the conclusion is finished.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.0
The essay is organized into logical paragraphs, with an introduction, an overview, and body paragraphs. Cohesive devices such as 'Overall', 'Even though', 'By contrast', and 'whereas' are used to link ideas effectively. However, the abrupt ending of the text disrupts the overall flow and coherence of the final section. The progression of ideas is generally logical, moving from the general trend to specific details, but the lack of a complete final sentence makes the structure feel unfinished. Improving the consistency of paragraph length and ensuring a complete conclusion would enhance the overall coherence.
Lexical Resource — Band 6.0
The range of vocabulary is adequate for the task, with terms like 'significant fluctuations', 'plummeted', 'plateaued', and 'commenced' showing a good attempt at using varied and precise language. There are no major spelling errors, and the vocabulary is generally appropriate for an academic report. However, the range is somewhat limited, and the unfinished nature of the text prevents the demonstration of a wider, more sophisticated vocabulary. To reach a higher band, focus on incorporating more precise collocations and ensuring that the vocabulary used consistently supports the analytical nature of the report.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.0
The response uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures, such as 'Even though Nickel started off with the highest proportion... it dropped to the last position'. There are some minor punctuation errors, such as the unnecessary semicolon after 'namely'. While the grammar is generally accurate, the incomplete final sentence is a significant issue that affects the overall grammatical control. The majority of the sentences are clear and error-free, but the lack of completion at the end of the text prevents a higher score. Focusing on proofreading to ensure all sentences are complete would be beneficial.
See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.
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