Band 5.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 5.5 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-08-24
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 graph given demonstrates the average change in monthly costs of three different metals (copper, nickel and zinc) in 2014.
Overall, it is clear that, the price of zinc metal is highest, while the average price of nickel is lowest throughout the year. However, the average costs of all three metals (copper, zinc and nickel) is fluctuated in 2014.
Examining the details, the average price of zinc was 1% in January, which climbed in February to 3%. Moreover, the cost of zinc was dropped rapidly to -1% in June, later increased sharply to 2%. Similarly, in terms of copper, the price was 2% in January which showed variations of different prices from February to November. In December, the average cost of copper was between 1% to 2%.
By contrast, the average monthly price of nickel was 6% in January, which fell down sharply to 1% in May. Furthermore, the proportion remained stable for 2 months and then again decreased rapidly to -3% in June. Subsequently, the monthly cost of nickel increased again to 1% in December.
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 covers the main features of the graph, but there are significant inaccuracies in the data interpretation. For example, you state that the price of zinc was the highest and nickel the lowest, which contradicts the provided graph. Furthermore, the description of the trends is somewhat vague; for instance, stating copper showed 'variations of different prices' does not adequately describe the specific movements shown in the data. To improve, ensure you carefully cross-reference your summary with the visual data to avoid factual errors and provide more precise descriptions of the trends.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 5.5
The essay is organized into logical paragraphs, which helps the reader follow the structure. You use some cohesive devices such as 'Overall', 'Examining the details', and 'By contrast' to signal transitions. However, the progression of ideas is occasionally hindered by the factual inaccuracies mentioned in the task achievement section. Additionally, some linking phrases feel a bit mechanical. To reach a higher band, focus on ensuring that the logical flow is supported by accurate data reporting and more varied, natural transitions between sentences and paragraphs.
Lexical Resource — Band 5.5
You demonstrate an adequate range of vocabulary for the task, using terms like 'fluctuated', 'climbed', 'dropped rapidly', and 'proportion'. However, there are some word choice errors, such as using 'proportion' to refer to price changes, and 'fell down' which is slightly informal. The vocabulary is sufficient to convey the main points, but it lacks the precision and sophistication required for higher bands. Expanding your repertoire of reporting verbs and adverbs (e.g., 'fluctuated marginally', 'plummeted') would enhance the quality of your writing.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.5
You use a mix of simple and complex sentence structures, such as 'The graph given demonstrates...' and '...which fell down sharply to 1% in May.' There are several grammatical errors, including subject-verb agreement issues like 'the average costs... is fluctuated' and 'the price of zinc was 1%'. These errors are frequent enough to be noticeable but do not generally impede communication. To improve, focus on subject-verb agreement and the correct use of passive voice when describing data trends to ensure your sentences are grammatically sound.
See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.
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