Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-09-17

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 7.5)

The line graph illustrates the average monthly changes in the prices of three metals—copper, zinc and nickel—in 2014. The changes are given as percentages.

Overall, nickel experienced the most significant fluctuations, beginning with the highest increase before falling to the lowest point. Copper showed relatively moderate changes throughout the year, while zinc also fluctuated but ended the period with a noticeable increase.

Nickel started at 6%, which was the highest figure among the three metals. It then declined sharply, reaching 1% in both March and April. After that, the figure continued to fall and reached its lowest point of -3% in June. It subsequently recovered gradually and ended the year at around 1%.

Copper began at 2% and generally declined during the first half of the year, reaching its lowest point of approximately -0.5% in June and July. It then recovered gradually, ending the year at around 1.5%.

Zinc started at approximately 1% and was the only metal to experience a rise at the beginning of the year, reaching a peak of 3% in February. It subsequently declined and reached -1% in June. After fluctuating during the following months, its price change increased again from October onwards, reaching approximately 2% in December.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The student has successfully covered all parts of the task by reporting the main features and making relevant comparisons across the three metals throughout 2014. The response features a clear overview highlighting the most significant trends, such as nickel's major fluctuations and copper's relative stability. Key data points from the chart—such as nickel starting at 6% and dropping to -3% in June, or copper reaching approximately 1.5% in December—are accurately selected and reported. The information is factually grounded in the provided graph, demonstrating a strong ability to summarise visual data without omitting critical details.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The response is logically organised and easy to follow. Information is presented in a clear sequence, starting with an introductory statement and an overall summary, followed by well-structured body paragraphs dedicated to individual metals. Cohesive devices such as 'Overall', 'After that', 'subsequently', and 'while' are used naturally and effectively to guide the reader through the data. Paragraphing is used appropriately, with each paragraph serving a distinct and clear function in the overall report.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.0

The student demonstrates a sufficient and precise range of vocabulary suitable for an Academic Task 1 response. Words and phrases such as 'significant fluctuations', 'declined sharply', 'recovered gradually', and 'noticeable increase' are used accurately. There is a good awareness of collocation and style, which allows the writer to describe trends smoothly without repetition. Minor vocabulary choices are appropriate, and no spelling or word-choice errors impede communication.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The response exhibits a wide range of sentence structures, including complex sentences with subordinate clauses ('which was the highest figure among the three metals', 'while zinc also fluctuated'). The majority of sentences are error-free, and control over grammar and punctuation is strong throughout. Verb tenses are used consistently and accurately to describe past data from 2014. Only very occasional minor slips might occur, but they do not affect overall readability.

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