Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · IELTS Momentum Workout · 2026-09-12

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, showing the various joints and components that enable it to perform movements similar to those of a human arm.

Overall, the mechanical arm is operated by a computer that precisely controls three motors. These motors enable movement at the shoulder and elbow, as well as rotation of the wrist, while a sensor-controlled gripper allows the arm to handle objects. Different end-effectors can also be attached depending on the task.

At the bottom, the arm is mounted on a base, which is usually stationary but can occasionally be moved. Above this is the shoulder joint, which is powered by a motor and enables the arm to be raised or lowered. A further motor operates the pivot at the elbow, allowing the arm to rotate and providing flexibility in its movement.

The upper section contains a wrist joint, which allows the gripper or another end-effector to flex and rotate. At the end of the arm is a built-in gripper equipped with sensors that control the amount of force applied when handling objects. Alternatively, the gripper can be replaced with specialised end-effectors designed for tasks such as spray painting, drilling holes or welding metal.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The response effectively covers all parts of the task by summarizing the main features of the mechanical arm and noting the structural parallels with a human arm. In the introduction, the writer states that the diagram illustrates 'how a mechanical arm operates, showing the various joints and components'. Furthermore, the body paragraphs successfully highlight key features such as the computer-controlled motors, the base, shoulder, elbow, wrist joints, and sensor-controlled grippers. Comparisons and functional details, such as mentioning that the gripper can be replaced with specialized end-effectors for 'spray painting, drilling holes or welding metal', are integrated smoothly. The information is accurately reported without any major omissions, meeting the Band 8 criteria well.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The report demonstrates a clear and logical progression of ideas from the overview down to the specific components of the arm. The writer employs appropriate transitional markers and cohesive devices, such as 'Overall', 'At the bottom', 'Above this', and 'The upper section', which guide the reader spatially through the diagram. Paragraphing is used effectively, with each paragraph serving a distinct function—introduction, general overview, lower/middle sections, and upper section/end-effectors. Referencing is clear throughout, and cohesion is well managed without mechanical over-use, aligning comfortably with a Band 8 descriptor.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

The student displays a flexible and precise range of vocabulary suited to describing a technical process. Terms like 'operates', 'components', 'stationary', 'pivot', and 'end-effectors' demonstrate a good control of lexical items. Collocations are handled accurately, as seen in phrases like 'computer that precisely controls three motors' and 'amount of force applied'. While the vocabulary is not excessively ornamented with highly sophisticated idioms or rare academic terms, it is entirely natural, accurate, and fulfills the requirements of the task efficiently, supporting a solid Band 7 score.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The writing exhibits a strong command of grammatical structures, successfully blending simple and complex forms. The student utilizes relative clauses and participial phrases fluently, as demonstrated in sentences like 'The diagram illustrates how a mechanical arm operates, showing the various joints...' and '...gripper equipped with sensors that control the amount of force applied'. The majority of sentences are error-free, and punctuation is handled correctly throughout. Minor slips are absent, and control over complex structures is consistent, justifying a high band score for grammatical accuracy and range.

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