Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.5 · IELTS Momentum Workout · 2026-08-09

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 6.5)

The diagram given below illustrates that how a mechanical arm works and shows the different joints and tools that allow it to perform tasks similar to a human arm.

Overall, the mechanical arm is operated by a computer that control three motors. These motors allow the arm to move at the elbow, pivot and wrist, while a gripper at the end is used to hold objects. Different end-effectors can also be attached for other purposes.

At the bottom, the arm is attached to a base, which is usually stationary but can sometimes be moved. A motor controls the pivot, allowing the arm to rotate, while other mechanism at the shoulder enables it to be raised or lower. Further along the arm, the elbow provides flexibility and movement. The wrist can rotate and allows a gripper or another end effector to be attached.

The gripper has a built-in sensor that controls the force used to hold an object. Alternative tools include equipment for spray painting, drilling holes and welding metal.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.5

The response successfully identifies the main features of the mechanical arm, including its components and functionality. You have clearly described the base, motors, joints, and end-effectors. The comparison to the human arm is mentioned in the introduction, which is appropriate. However, the report could be improved by more explicitly highlighting the 'comparison' aspect requested in the prompt—for instance, by directly linking specific mechanical parts (like the pivot or elbow) to their human anatomical counterparts more consistently throughout the body paragraphs. Overall, the information is accurate and covers all key aspects of the diagram.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5

The essay is logically organized into clear paragraphs, moving from an overview to specific details about the arm's structure and finally its applications. The progression of ideas is easy to follow. You use some cohesive devices, such as 'At the bottom' and 'Further along the arm', which help guide the reader. However, the transition between the second and third paragraphs could be smoother, and the use of cohesive devices is somewhat basic. To reach a higher band, try to incorporate a wider variety of linking words and ensure that referencing between sentences is more sophisticated.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.0

You demonstrate an adequate range of vocabulary for the task, using technical terms like 'end-effectors', 'pivot', and 'stationary' correctly. There are some minor issues with word choice, such as 'other mechanism' (should be plural 'mechanisms') and 'raised or lower' (should be 'raised or lowered'). While the vocabulary is sufficient to convey the meaning clearly, it lacks the precision and sophistication required for a higher band. Incorporating more precise collocations and avoiding repetitive phrasing would enhance your score in this criterion.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.0

The response uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures. There are several grammatical errors that, while not impeding communication, are noticeable. For example, 'illustrates that how' is redundant; it should be 'illustrates how'. Additionally, 'computer that control' should be 'computer that controls' (subject-verb agreement), and 'raised or lower' should be 'raised or lowered' (parallel structure). While you show an ability to use complex sentences, the frequency of these small errors prevents a higher score. Focusing on subject-verb agreement and verb tense consistency will help improve your accuracy.

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

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