Band 5.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 5.0 · IELTS Momentum Workout · 2026-09-11

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 5.0)

This diagram depicts how does a mechanical arm functions. It shows the assembly of different joints to structure an arm which performs like a human arm.

Overall the image consists of a main head computer which controls three motors significantly performing their assigned tasks. The upper head of the structure is composed of shoulder which commands lowering or raising arm whereas lower head is made of wrist and grippers help in controlling force respectively. In between elbow is located which commands movement and flexibility

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 4.0

The response fails to meet the minimum word count requirement of 150 words, reaching only 84 words. Consequently, the task is only partially addressed. While the student identifies the main components (motors, shoulder, elbow, wrist, grippers), the description is too brief to provide a comprehensive summary or detailed comparisons. The lack of development means the reader does not get a clear understanding of the mechanical arm's function or the specific comparison to human anatomy. To improve, you must expand on the details provided in the diagram, ensuring all key features are described in depth and the relationship between the mechanical and human components is fully explained.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 5.0

The response is organised into two short paragraphs, which is a basic structure. However, the progression of ideas is limited due to the brevity of the text. There is an attempt to use cohesive devices such as 'Overall' and 'In between', but the flow is disjointed. The referencing is sometimes unclear, such as in the phrase 'lower head is made of wrist and grippers help in controlling force respectively', which lacks a clear connection to the preceding information. To improve, use a wider range of linking words and ensure that each sentence logically follows the previous one to create a more cohesive narrative.

Lexical Resource — Band 5.0

The vocabulary used is adequate for the task but remains quite basic and repetitive. Phrases like 'main head computer' and 'lower head' are somewhat imprecise in a technical context. There is little evidence of less common or precise vocabulary related to mechanical engineering or anatomical comparisons. To achieve a higher band score, you should incorporate more specific terminology, such as 'articulated joints', 'actuators', or 'mimics the range of motion', to demonstrate a more sophisticated command of the English language appropriate for an academic report.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.0

The response contains several grammatical errors that affect clarity. For example, the opening sentence 'This diagram depicts how does a mechanical arm functions' contains an incorrect word order in the indirect question. Additionally, there are missing articles throughout the text, such as 'composed of shoulder' instead of 'composed of a shoulder'. While the meaning is generally understandable, the range of sentence structures is limited to simple or slightly flawed complex sentences. To improve, focus on mastering subject-verb agreement, correct article usage, and the structure of indirect questions.

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

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