Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.5 · 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 6.5)

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.

Meanwhile, Copper and Zinc commenced at 2% and 1% change in price respectively, but exchanged their position by the end of the year to 2% and over 1%, respectively, positioning zinc at first and Copper in the second, after enduring an erratic journey throughout the year.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.5

The response covers all parts of the task well. You have identified the main features and provided relevant comparisons between the three metals. The overview clearly highlights the significant fluctuations and the final similar levels. However, there are some inaccuracies in the data interpretation; for instance, stating that Nickel ended at 1% is not clearly supported by the graph, and the description of the final positions of Copper and Zinc is slightly confusing. To reach a higher band, ensure that the data points are described with absolute precision and that the comparative language is unambiguous.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5

The response is logically organized with a clear introduction, overview, and body paragraphs. You use cohesive devices such as 'meanwhile', 'whereas', and 'however' to link ideas effectively. The progression of information is generally smooth, moving from the general trend to specific details. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate the overview from the detailed analysis. To improve, ensure that referencing is always clear; for example, in the final paragraph, the reference to 'exchanged their position' could be more explicitly linked to the specific data points to avoid any ambiguity for the reader.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

You demonstrate a sufficient range of vocabulary to convey the information clearly. Phrases like 'plummeted', 'plateaued', and 'erratic journey' are well-chosen and appropriate for describing trends in a graph. There are occasional minor inaccuracies in word choice, such as 'proportion' when referring to percentage change, which is slightly imprecise. However, the vocabulary is generally flexible and precise enough to communicate the main features of the data without difficulty. Continuing to use topic-specific collocations will further enhance your score.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.0

The response uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures. Most sentences are clear and error-free, which allows for easy reading. There are some minor punctuation errors, such as the unnecessary semicolon after 'namely' in the introduction. Additionally, some articles are missing or misused, such as 'whereas, other two metals'. Despite these occasional slips, your control over grammar is good, and the errors do not impede communication. To aim for a higher band, focus on refining the use of articles and ensuring consistent punctuation in complex sentences.

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

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