Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.5 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-09-26

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 line graph illustrates the average monthly percentage change in the prices of three metals - copper, nickel, and zinc - over the course of 2014. Overall, copper experienced notable fluctuations, nickel demonstrated a sharp decline after the mid-year, and zinc displayed moderate instability without a definitive trend.

Initially, in January, copper accounted for a 2% change in the overall price index, followed by the period from February to June, where it experienced notable fluctuations and dropped below 0%. From July to the end of the year, it rose again and remained steady for three months. After a slight dip, it climbed back above 1%. At the start of the year, nickel accounted for 6% of the total trend.

From February to June, nickel demonstrated a sharp decline and dropped to negative 3%, and from July to September, it remained steady at negative 1%. It then fell further to negative 2% before rising to 1% by the end of the year.

On the other hand, zinc displayed an erratic trend throughout the year. In January, zinc accounted for 1% of the total price change before rising to 3% in February. Following this, it dropped and remained at below 1% until October, eventually recovering to 2% at the end of the year.

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 graph. The overview clearly highlights the key trajectories (copper's fluctuations, nickel's sharp decline, and zinc's moderate instability). Data points are generally reported accurately, such as nickel starting at 6% and dropping to negative 3%, and copper's movements throughout the year. However, there are minor inaccuracies in terminology; the student refers to the percentages as changes in the "overall price index" or "total trend" rather than the average monthly percentage change compared with the previous month. Despite this, the response provides a well-developed and structured summary of the visual data, satisfying the requirements for a Band 7.0.

Coherence and Cohesion: Band 6.5

The response is logically organised with a clear overall progression. An introductory paragraph sets out the general trends, followed by distinct paragraphs dedicated to copper, nickel, and zinc respectively. Cohesive devices such as "Initially," "From February to June," and "On the other hand" are used effectively to guide the reader through the data and establish clear comparisons. Paragraphing is used appropriately, and referencing throughout the text is generally clear and easy to follow. The logical structure and smooth transitions place this response comfortably within the Band 7.0 band descriptor.

Lexical Resource: Band 6.0

The student demonstrates an adequate to good range of vocabulary suited to describing statistical trends. Phrases such as "notable fluctuations," "sharp decline," "moderate instability," and "erratic trend" show a good attempt at less common lexical items. However, there are minor vocabulary inaccuracies, such as stating that copper and zinc "accounted for" a percentage, when the chart actually measures percentage change rather than a proportion or share. Spelling is accurate throughout, and communication is never impeded, making Band 6.5 a fair representation of the lexical range and control displayed.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 6.5

The response displays a good mix of simple and complex sentence structures, including subordinate clauses and participial phrases (e.g., "followed by the period from February to June, where it experienced notable fluctuations and dropped below 0%"). Grammar and punctuation are generally well-controlled, with a significant proportion of error-free sentences. Minor awkwardness in phrasing appears occasionally, but these issues do not impede understanding. The variety of structures and overall accuracy align well with the criteria for Band 7.0.

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