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 line graph illustrates the monthly change in the prices of three metals: copper, nickel and zinc in the year 2014.

Across the period, of the first few months the prices of each metal were more on the rising side. It dropped significantly in the middle of the year and only rose a bit by the year-end. There is a noticeable difference of price among the 3 metals. Though Nickel was the most expensive metal in the month of January, it became the lowest in price by December.

Nickel's price rose to 6% in the month of January making it more coslty then Copper and Zinc. Copper was at 2% when the year started. But even with the price dropping on the month of March by 0.5% it did rise to 1.5% on December. Zinc was always on the lower side of the price range of 1% but it increased to 3% by the next month. The final price percentage of Zinc was 2%.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.0

The response covers the main features of the graph, identifying the general trends and providing some specific data points. However, the analysis is somewhat inconsistent. For instance, the statement that nickel became the lowest in price by December is not clearly supported by the data provided in the graph. Furthermore, the description of the trends is occasionally imprecise, such as the vague reference to the 'first few months' and 'middle of the year'. To reach a higher band, you should ensure that all data points are accurately transcribed and that the comparisons between the three metals are more systematic and clearly linked to the visual information provided.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.0

The essay is organised into paragraphs, which helps the reader follow the structure. There is a clear introduction, an overview, and specific details. However, the progression of ideas within the paragraphs is sometimes disjointed. The use of cohesive devices is limited and occasionally mechanical, such as the repetitive use of 'but' to start sentences. To improve, try using a wider variety of linking words and phrases to connect your sentences and ideas more fluidly, such as 'consequently', 'in contrast', or 'meanwhile', which will help create a more natural flow throughout the text.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.0

You have used an adequate range of vocabulary for the task, including terms like 'illustrates', 'noticeable difference', and 'percentage'. However, there are some inaccuracies in word choice and spelling, such as 'coslty' instead of 'costly' and 'then' instead of 'than'. The vocabulary is generally functional but lacks the precision and sophistication required for higher bands. To improve, focus on using more precise terminology for describing trends, such as 'fluctuated', 'peaked', or 'remained stable', and ensure that you are using collocations correctly to enhance the clarity and professional tone of your report.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.0

The response uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures. While the meaning is generally clear, there are several grammatical errors, such as 'the prices of each metal were more on the rising side' and 'dropping on the month of March'. These errors, while not impeding communication, occur frequently enough to prevent a higher score. To improve, focus on subject-verb agreement and the correct use of prepositions when discussing time and data. Additionally, try to incorporate more varied complex sentence structures to demonstrate greater control over your grammatical range.

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

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