Band 6.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.0 · IELTS Momentum Workout · 2026-08-04

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 6.0)

The diagram illustrates how mechanical arm works, and how the joints that make up the arm function the same way as those in a human arm.

Overall, the mechanical arm has a base, pivot shoulder and wrist just like a human arm. Additionally, it is controlled by a computer through the computer-preprogram control motors which are connected to the base, elbow and the gripper.

From the diagram, the base is usually stationary or occasionally movable. The upper side of the base has a shoulder which raises and lowers the arm. At the center of the shoulder is a pivot which enables the arm to rotate and behind it is the elbow. This allows for movement or flexibility. This part is controlled by a motor which is connected to the computer.

The wrist allows the gripper to rotate and the gripper has build-in sensors to control the force. This is also controlled by a motor which is connected to the computer. Finally, the other diagram shows the alternative end-effectors including the spray paint, drill holes and weld metal.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.0

The response covers the main features of the mechanical arm, including its components and the comparison to human anatomy. It also mentions the end-effectors as requested. However, the description of the mechanical arm's function is somewhat superficial. While it identifies the parts, it lacks a more detailed explanation of the 'how'—specifically the interaction between the computer, motors, and joints. The comparison to the human arm is mentioned but not fully developed or integrated into the description of the mechanical process. To reach a higher band, the response should provide a more cohesive synthesis of how the components work together as a system rather than listing them sequentially.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5

The essay is logically organized into an introduction, a general overview, and body paragraphs detailing the components. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate the main features. Cohesive devices such as 'Additionally', 'From the diagram', and 'Finally' are used to guide the reader. However, some transitions feel slightly mechanical, and the flow between the description of the base and the wrist could be smoother. The referencing is generally clear, though the connection between the computer control and the specific movements could be more explicitly linked to improve the overall flow of information.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.0

The vocabulary is adequate for the task, using technical terms like 'end-effectors', 'stationary', and 'pivot' correctly. There are some minor inaccuracies, such as 'build-in sensors' (should be 'built-in') and 'drill holes and weld metal' (which are actions, not end-effectors; the tools would be 'drills' or 'welders'). The range is sufficient to convey the necessary information, but it lacks the precision and sophistication required for higher bands. The repetition of 'controlled by a motor' suggests a limited range of phrasing for describing mechanical functions.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.0

The response uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures. There are some grammatical errors, such as 'how mechanical arm works' (missing an article: 'a mechanical arm') and 'computer-preprogram control motors' (awkward phrasing). Punctuation is generally accurate, but there are minor slips in word formation and article usage. While the errors do not impede communication, the range of complex structures is somewhat limited, and the control over these structures is not consistent enough to warrant a higher band.

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

Browse more IELTS Writing model answers or get your own writing scored by the same AI examiner.