Band 6.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.0 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-08-29

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 graph proportionates the average price change of copper, nickel and zinc in the year 2014.

Overall, in the graph given, we can observe nickel has the highest price change as compared to copper and zinc.

Comparing the percentage at the start of the year and at the end of the year, nickel has reduced from 6% to 1% and copper has reduced from 2% to 1.5% while zinc has rose from 1% to 2%.

In the graph given for nickel, we can observe that its prices are decreasing every month till June (-3%). After June, for three consecutive months it has managed to be at -1% and then in the month of October it dropped to -2% and for the latter two months its value rose back to 1%, but not above its original value.

Similarly, for copper, in the months of May and June, the percentage dropped to -0.5% and at the end of the year it went back to 1.5%.

For zinc, the highest percent change was recorded in the month of February that is 3% and the percentage dropped in the months of June and October at -1%. Later, it managed to recover and increase its value to 2% at the end of the year, above its original value.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.0

The response covers the main features of the graph, including the trends for all three metals. You successfully identified the overall trend and made relevant comparisons between the start and end of the year. However, the report could be improved by focusing more on the most significant fluctuations rather than listing every minor movement. For example, the description of nickel's monthly changes is quite detailed, which borders on listing data rather than synthesising it. To reach a higher band, ensure you clearly highlight the most striking differences and similarities between the metals, rather than just describing them individually.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.0

The response is logically organised into clear paragraphs, with an introduction, an overview, and body paragraphs focusing on specific data. The use of cohesive devices such as 'Similarly' and 'After June' helps the reader follow the progression of ideas. However, some transitions feel a bit mechanical, and the referencing could be smoother. For instance, the phrase 'In the graph given' is repeated, which makes the writing feel slightly repetitive. Improving the variety of linking words and ensuring that each paragraph has a clear thematic focus would enhance the overall flow and cohesion of your writing.

Lexical Resource — Band 5.5

You have a sufficient range of vocabulary to convey the information clearly, using terms like 'percentage', 'fluctuations', and 'value'. However, there are some inaccuracies in word choice and collocation. For example, 'proportionates' is not the correct term for describing a graph; 'illustrates' or 'depicts' would be more appropriate. Additionally, 'zinc has rose' is grammatically incorrect (should be 'risen'). To improve, try to incorporate more precise academic vocabulary related to data trends, such as 'fluctuated', 'peaked', or 'remained stable', and ensure you are using these words in their correct grammatical forms.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.5

The response uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures. While the meaning is generally clear, there are several grammatical errors that occur throughout the text. For instance, 'zinc has rose' should be 'zinc has risen', and 'the percentage dropped in the months of June and October at -1%' would be better phrased as 'dropped to -1%'. There are also minor issues with preposition usage and verb tense consistency. To achieve a higher score, focus on mastering subject-verb agreement and the correct use of past tense when describing data from a specific year in the past.

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

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