Band 6.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.0 · IELTS Momentum Workout · 2026-08-10

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 the working of a mechanical arm and how the joints making the arm perform the exact functions of those in a human arm.

Overall, the comparisons between mechanical arm joints and human arm joints have been made. Moreover, alternative end-effectors have also been mentioned used in the gripping function of the mechanical arm.

A computer is a precision control of motors. These motors constitute the joints present in the mechanical arm of the computer. To begin with, the base is usually stationery/occasionally movable. Moving upwards, the shoulder raises/lowers arm. In contrast, he pivot enables the arm to rotate.

In the subsequent stage, there's the elbow, which allows movement/gives flexibility. Moreover, the wrist allows gripper (or alternative end-effector) to flex/rotate. These alternative end-effectors are used in various functions namely spray paint, drill holes or weld metal. At the last, the gripper has built-in sensors allowing control over force.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.0

The response covers the main features of the mechanical arm, including the base, joints, and end-effectors. However, the comparison to the human arm is mentioned in the introduction but not effectively integrated into the body paragraphs. The description of the joints is somewhat fragmented, and the explanation of the computer's role is slightly confusing, as it describes the computer as a 'precision control of motors' rather than the controller of the system. To improve, you should explicitly link each mechanical joint to its human counterpart (e.g., 'the shoulder joint functions similarly to the human shoulder by raising and lowering the arm') to better satisfy the prompt's requirement to report on how they function in the same way.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.0

The essay is organized into logical paragraphs, and there is a clear attempt to use cohesive devices such as 'To begin with,' 'Moving upwards,' and 'In the subsequent stage.' However, some transitions feel mechanical or slightly forced. The flow between the description of the joints and the function of the end-effectors is a bit abrupt. While the paragraphing is appropriate, the progression of ideas could be smoother. The use of referencing is generally clear, but the overall structure would benefit from more sophisticated linking words to connect the mechanical components to their specific human-like movements more fluidly.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.0

You demonstrate an adequate range of vocabulary for the task, using terms like 'end-effectors,' 'precision control,' and 'flexibility.' There are some minor issues with word choice and collocation, such as 'stationery' (which refers to writing materials; the correct word is 'stationary') and 'namely spray paint' (which should be 'such as spray painting'). The vocabulary is sufficient to convey the main points, but it lacks the precision and variety required for a higher band. Focusing on accurate technical collocations and avoiding spelling errors will help elevate your score in this area.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.0

The response uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures. There are some grammatical inaccuracies, such as 'The diagram illustrates the working of a mechanical arm and how the joints making the arm perform...' where 'making' should be 'that make.' Additionally, 'At the last' is non-standard; 'Finally' or 'Lastly' would be more appropriate. While these errors do not impede communication, they are frequent enough to prevent a higher score. To improve, focus on ensuring subject-verb agreement and using more varied, error-free complex sentences to describe the mechanical processes.

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

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