Band 7.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.0 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-09-20

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 7.0)

The line graph illustrates the average monthly changes in the prices of three metals, namely copper, nickel and zinc, throughout 2014.

Overall, nickel experienced the most significant fluctuations during the year, while copper showed the least variation. The prices of all three metals generally declined during the first half of the year before recovering towards the end.

At the beginning of 2014, nickel recorded the highest monthly price change, at approximately 6%. However, this figure fell sharply to around 4% in February and continued to decrease, reaching about 1% in March. It then remained relatively low for the following few months. In contrast, copper started at roughly 2% and fluctuated moderately during the first part of the year.

Zinc also experienced some fluctuations. Its figure was approximately 1% at the beginning of the year and then varied slightly over the following months. By the middle of the year, the changes in the prices of all three metals were relatively small. Towards the end of 2014, however, the figures generally increased, with nickel showing a particularly noticeable recovery.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.5

The student successfully addresses all parts of the task by reporting the main features and trends of the three metals shown in the line graph. An appropriate overview is provided, highlighting nickel's significant fluctuations and copper's relative stability, as well as the general trend of first-half decline followed by a recovery. Key data points, such as nickel starting at approximately 6% in January, are accurately reported. The response covers all required aspects without noticeable omissions, meeting the criteria for a Band 7.0.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.0

The response is logically organised and easy to follow. Information is presented with a clear progression, moving from an introduction and overall summary to specific monthly details. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate different periods and metals. Cohesive devices such as 'Overall', 'However', 'In contrast', and 'Towards the end' are used effectively to guide the reader through the data, demonstrating a cohesive and coherent arrangement overall.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

The student uses a sufficient range of vocabulary appropriate for an academic task, including terms like 'fluctuations', 'variation', 'declined', and 'recovery'. Less common lexical items are attempted with reasonable success (e.g., 'recorded the highest monthly price change', 'fluctuated moderately'). Word choice and collocation are generally accurate, although vocabulary remains somewhat standard rather than highly sophisticated. Errors are virtually absent.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.0

The writer demonstrates a good control of grammar and punctuation, employing a mix of simple and complex sentence structures (e.g., 'Although nickel experienced...'). Sentences are frequently error-free, and complex clauses are handled with adequate accuracy. Minor slips do not occur frequently, and punctuation is handled correctly throughout. This performance aligns comfortably with the Band 7.5 descriptors.

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