Band 5.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 5.5 · IELTS Momentum Workout · 2026-08-05
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 given illustration sketch is explains how a mechanical single arm robot works to do some useful works.
Overall, a single arm robot is fully operated by the computer precision control of motors with a combination of joints which are supported by a stationary base to hold the thing with a gripper to do the Spray painting, Drilling and Metal welding.
Firstly, a programed monitor is connected to the precision control motors by program to make movements such as rotary motion to a reciprocating movement, then it directly connects to the base which is supported by pivot arm and shoulder that helps to raise and rotate.
Secondly, an elbow is connected the wrist which is helps to make a flexible movements and the wrist is directly joints with a sensors gripper to hold the things. However, entire robot joints are connected with motors each motor is operating the individual joints.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 5.5 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 5.5 |
| Lexical Resource | 5.5 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 5.0 |
| Overall | 5.5 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.5
The response covers the main features of the mechanical arm, including its components (base, shoulder, elbow, wrist, gripper) and its functions (spray painting, drilling, welding). However, the comparison to the human arm, which was a key part of the prompt, is mentioned only in the introduction and not developed or integrated into the body paragraphs. The description of the mechanical process is somewhat vague, and the explanation of how the joints function is hindered by grammatical inaccuracies. To improve, ensure that all parts of the prompt are addressed with equal depth and provide a clearer, more logical breakdown of the mechanical process.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 5.5
The essay is organised into paragraphs, which helps the reader follow the structure. The use of linking words like 'Overall', 'Firstly', 'Secondly', and 'However' provides a basic framework for the response. However, the progression of ideas is sometimes disjointed. For instance, the transition between the monitor/motor system and the physical joints is abrupt. Additionally, some cohesive devices are used mechanically or incorrectly, such as the use of 'However' to introduce a sentence that does not contrast with the previous one. Improving the flow between sentences and ensuring that cohesive devices are used to logically connect related ideas would enhance the coherence of the report.
Lexical Resource — Band 5.5
The vocabulary is generally adequate for the task, allowing the writer to describe the components of the robot. There are some attempts at technical terminology, such as 'reciprocating movement' and 'precision control'. However, there are several instances of awkward word choice and collocation errors, such as 'illustration sketch is explains', 'directly joints with', and 'sensors gripper'. These errors occasionally make the text feel unnatural. To reach a higher band, focus on using more precise technical vocabulary and ensuring that words are used in their correct grammatical form and collocation.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.0
The response contains a mix of simple and some attempted complex sentence structures. However, there are frequent grammatical errors that affect the clarity of the writing. Examples include subject-verb agreement issues ('illustration sketch is explains'), incorrect verb forms ('is connected the wrist'), and missing articles or prepositions. These errors are noticeable and sometimes require the reader to re-read to understand the intended meaning. To improve, focus on basic sentence construction, particularly the correct use of passive voice and verb tenses, which are essential for describing mechanical processes.
See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.
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