Band 5.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 5.5 · 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 5.5)

This diagram illustrates all the major parts in the working of a mechanical arm and how the connectors make it operate similarly as those in a human arm. There are seven essential parts of the mechanical arm that are connected to a motor.

The figure indicates that there are seven major parts ,first of all is a base on which there is an arm shaped physical structure, including a pivot, which is of paramount importance as it holds all of the structure, next, an elbow- a joining point as in a human arm, attached to the shoulder and next to it in length-wrist which provides the twirling action joined with the gripper, contributing to regulate force. The three major parts termed as the shoulder, elbow and lastly the gripper is joined to a motor, which makes all the parts function efficiently. The computer is stated to be the principle part to accurately control the motors attached to the three major parts.

Diving deep down to the roles of all the parts , it can be seen that every part has its own vital function. Primarily , there is a base, which is only sometimes mobile but other than that, it is motionless. It is the foundation of the whole physical structure called as a substructure. Next ,we have is a pivot which facilitates the arm to swivel. Other than that is an elbow, allowing motion and offers versatility, connected furthermore to the wrist delivering the action of rotating, bonded with the gripper, having the detectors to govern the force needed. Lastly, the base, elbow and the gripper wired to the motor, which is the main operator for all the functions of all parts to be executed in a precise manner, which is directed by another device known as a computer. The substitute exemplars can be spray paint, drills, and many more.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.0

You have successfully identified the main features of the mechanical arm and made relevant comparisons to the human arm. You covered the key components such as the base, pivot, elbow, wrist, and gripper, and explained their functions. However, the response is somewhat repetitive, particularly in the second paragraph where you re-describe the functions of the parts already mentioned in the first. To improve, ensure that you synthesise information rather than listing it twice. The inclusion of examples like 'spray paint' and 'drills' is a nice touch, but ensure these are clearly linked to the diagram's information to maintain focus.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 5.5

The essay is organised into paragraphs, which helps the reader follow the information. However, the progression of ideas is slightly hindered by repetition. While you use some cohesive devices like 'first of all', 'next', and 'lastly', the flow between sentences can feel a bit mechanical. The referencing is generally clear, but some sentences are overly long and convoluted, such as the final sentence of the second paragraph, which makes the logical connection between the computer, the motor, and the parts slightly difficult to follow. Improving the variety of linking words and simplifying complex sentence structures would enhance the overall flow.

Lexical Resource — Band 5.5

You demonstrate an adequate range of vocabulary for the task, using terms like 'paramount importance', 'substructure', and 'versatility'. There are some instances of slightly unnatural phrasing, such as 'twirling action' for a wrist or 'diving deep down to the roles', which are not ideal for an academic report. Additionally, there are minor errors in word choice, such as 'principle' instead of 'principal'. To reach a higher band, focus on using more precise technical collocations and avoiding informal or overly descriptive language that does not add clarity to the technical description.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.5

You use a mix of simple and complex sentence structures, which is appropriate for this task. However, there are frequent punctuation errors, particularly with comma usage and spacing (e.g., 'parts ,first of all'). Some sentences are grammatically awkward, such as 'the base, elbow and the gripper wired to the motor', which lacks a main verb. While these errors do not completely impede communication, they occur frequently enough to impact the overall accuracy. Focusing on subject-verb agreement and ensuring every sentence has a clear, finite verb will significantly improve your score.

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.