Band 5.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 5.5 · IELTS Momentum Workout · 2026-08-03

IELTS Writing Task 1 question

The diagram below shows how a mechanical arm works, and how the joints that make up the arm function in the same way as those in a human arm. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

Student answer (Band 5.5)

The mechanical arm consists of several features. First, a base which is usually stationary and can be moved occasionally. Secondly, it has a pivot which enables the arm to rotate and a shoulder that its function is to raise or lower the arm. Thirdly, it has an elbow that allows movement and also gives flexibility. To add on that, the elbow has a motor which is controlled by a computer. Moreover, there is the gripper which is also controlled by a motor, it has built -in sensors that control force. The mechanical arm also has alternative end-effector that can spray paint, drill holes and lastly weld metal. All the important parts of the mechanical arms have motors that are controlled by a computer to ensure it functions properly.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.0

The response fails to meet the minimum word count requirement of 150 words, which significantly impacts the ability to fully develop the task. While you identified the main components of the mechanical arm, the response lacks a clear overview or summary of the process, which is essential for Task 1. Furthermore, the prompt specifically asks for a comparison between the mechanical arm and the human arm, a requirement that was entirely overlooked in your writing. To improve, ensure you include an introductory overview, address all parts of the prompt, and expand on the functional comparisons between the two systems to reach the required length.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 5.5

The response is presented as a single paragraph, which makes it difficult to follow the logical progression of ideas. While you use some basic cohesive devices like 'First', 'Secondly', and 'Moreover', the overall structure is quite mechanical. There is a lack of paragraphing, which is necessary to separate the description of the components from the functional summary. To improve, organize your response into at least three paragraphs: an introduction/overview, a body paragraph detailing the components, and a concluding paragraph summarizing the mechanical functions. This will help create a more professional and coherent flow.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.0

Your vocabulary is generally adequate for describing the mechanical parts, using terms like 'stationary', 'pivot', and 'end-effector'. However, the range is somewhat limited and repetitive. Phrases like 'its function is to' and 'controlled by a computer' are used repeatedly, which reduces the sophistication of the text. To reach a higher band, try to incorporate more varied synonyms and precise technical collocations. For example, instead of repeating 'controlled by', you could use 'regulated by', 'automated by', or 'governed by'. Expanding your vocabulary will allow you to describe the mechanical processes with greater precision and variety.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.5

The response contains a mix of simple and complex sentence structures, but there are several grammatical errors that affect clarity. For instance, 'a shoulder that its function is to raise' is grammatically incorrect; a better phrasing would be 'a shoulder whose function is to raise'. Additionally, there are minor punctuation issues, such as the spacing in 'built -in'. While these errors do not completely impede communication, they occur frequently enough to prevent a higher score. Focus on refining relative clauses and ensuring subject-verb agreement to improve the accuracy of your complex sentences.

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