Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.5 · 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 6.5)

The provided line graph illustrates the change in price of three metals namely, copper, nickel and zinc on a monthly basis in 2014.

Overall, the price of nickel and copper dropped while the price of zinc increased at the end of the year. Furthermore, a trend is also observed as the price of all three metal were lowest in June.

The detailed analysis of the graph showcases the fall in the price of nickel as it slumped from 6% in January to -3% in June but bounced back to 1% in December. Similarly, the price of copper also decreased significantly from 2% in January to -0.5% in June but also decided to bounce back to 1.5% at the end of the year.

Although the price of zinc skyrocketed in February reaching 3%, it dropped back reaching -1% in June but unlike copper and nickel, it bounced back to 2% at the end of December which is higher than where it started(1%) in January.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.5

You have successfully identified the main trends and provided a clear overview of the data. You highlighted the key features, such as the mid-year dip in June and the final price changes. However, the analysis could be more precise. For example, stating that nickel 'slumped from 6% to -3%' is accurate, but you could improve by explicitly comparing the magnitude of these changes between the three metals more consistently. The overview is well-placed, and you have covered all parts of the task effectively.

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 'Furthermore', 'Similarly', and 'Although' to connect your ideas. However, some transitions feel slightly mechanical. The paragraphing is appropriate, and the progression of information from the general trend to specific details is logical and easy to follow. To reach a higher band, ensure that referencing is always precise and that the flow between sentences feels more natural.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.0

You have a good range of vocabulary, using terms like 'slumped', 'skyrocketed', and 'bounced back' to describe the trends. This demonstrates an attempt to use less common lexical items. There are a few minor issues with word choice, such as 'decided to bounce back', which attributes human agency to the metal prices. Overall, the vocabulary is sufficient to convey your meaning clearly and with some precision, which is appropriate for this level.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.0

You demonstrate a mix of simple and complex sentence structures. There are some grammatical slips, such as 'the price of all three metal were' (should be 'metals were') and 'started(1%)' (missing a space). While these errors are present, they do not impede communication. Your use of complex sentences, such as the 'Although...' construction in the final paragraph, shows a good attempt at variety. Focusing on subject-verb agreement and punctuation will help improve your accuracy.

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

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