Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · IELTS Momentum Workout · 2026-08-16

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 7.5)

The diagram illustrates how a mechanical arm operates and shows the functions of its various joints and components, which work in a similar way to those of a human arm.

Overall, the mechanical arm consists of several motors, joints and an end-effector, all of which are controlled by a computer. The arm can perform a range of movements, including rotating, raising, lowering and gripping objects.

At the bottom, the arm is attached to a base, which is usually stationary but can occasionally be moved. Above the base, a shoulder joint allows the arm to be raised and lowered, while a pivot enables it to rotate. Further along the arm, an elbow joint provides flexibility and allows movement. A wrist joint then permits the gripper or another end-effector to flex and rotate.

The gripper is equipped with built-in sensors that control the force used to hold objects. Different end-effectors can also be attached for specific purposes, such as spraying paint, drilling holes or welding metal. Finally, three motors, whose movements are precisely controlled by a computer, operate the mechanical arm.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.0

The response effectively addresses the prompt by describing the mechanical arm's components and their functions. You have successfully identified the main features, such as the base, joints (shoulder, elbow, wrist), and the end-effector. The comparison to the human arm is acknowledged in the introduction, which sets a clear context. The information is well-selected, and the description of how the motors and computer control the arm provides a comprehensive overview. To reach a higher band, ensure that the comparison between the mechanical and human joints is more explicitly integrated throughout the body paragraphs rather than just mentioned in the introduction.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The response is logically organized, with a clear introduction, a body paragraph detailing the structure and movement, and a concluding paragraph focusing on the control system and versatility. The progression of ideas is smooth, moving logically from the base up to the end-effector. Cohesive devices such as 'Above the base', 'Further along the arm', and 'Finally' are used effectively to guide the reader through the diagram. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate the structural description from the functional details, ensuring the text remains easy to follow throughout.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.0

You demonstrate a good range of vocabulary appropriate for a technical description. Terms like 'end-effector', 'pivot', 'flexibility', and 'precisely controlled' are used accurately. The language is natural and fits the academic tone required for Task 1. There are no significant errors in word choice or collocation. To improve further, you could incorporate more precise technical collocations or slightly more sophisticated descriptive language to elevate the response, though the current range is sufficient for a high band score.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The writing is highly accurate, with a variety of complex sentence structures used effectively. For example, the use of relative clauses ('whose movements are precisely controlled') and passive constructions ('is attached to', 'are controlled by') shows good control. The majority of sentences are error-free, and punctuation is handled correctly throughout. The flow is natural, and there are no grammatical slips that impede communication. The control over complex structures is consistent, which is a hallmark of a high-scoring response.

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

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