Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · IELTS Momentum Workout · 2026-09-16

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 how its joints work in a similar way to those in a human arm.

Overall, the mechanical arm is controlled by a computer and several motors. It has different joints that allow it to move, while a gripper or other end-effectors can be used to perform different tasks.

The arm is fixed to a base, which is usually stationary but can sometimes be moved. From the base, the shoulder joint allows the arm to move upwards and downwards. A pivot then enables the arm to rotate. Further along the arm, the elbow provides flexibility and allows movement. At the end, the wrist allows the gripper or another tool to flex and rotate.

The movements of the arm are controlled precisely by a computer through three motors. The motors are connected to different parts of the arm and provide the necessary movement. The gripper has built-in sensors that control the force used when holding objects. In addition to the gripper, alternative end-effectors can be attached for tasks such as spraying paint or drilling holes in metal.

Thus, the mechanical arm uses a combination of motors, joints and sensors to perform movements similar to those of a human arm.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The student successfully addresses all parts of the task by summarising the main features of the mechanical arm and how its joints function similarly to a human arm. An effective overview is provided in the opening and closing paragraphs, highlighting that the arm uses computers, motors, and joints to function. Key components such as the base, shoulder, pivot, elbow, wrist, and gripper are correctly identified and described in a logical sequence. Comparisons between the mechanical arm and human joints are integrated naturally. The response is fully grounded in the visual data without introducing irrelevant outside information. Therefore, it satisfies the requirements for a high band score.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The response exhibits a clear logical organisation and progression throughout. The progression moves smoothly from an introductory summary to structural components, control mechanisms, and finally a concluding synthesis. Paragraphing is used effectively, with each paragraph focusing on a distinct aspect of the diagram (e.g., structural joints in paragraph three and control mechanisms in paragraph four). Cohesive devices such as 'From the base', 'Further along the arm', and 'In addition to' are used accurately to guide the reader through the explanation without mechanical over-use. Referencing is clear and unambiguous.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.0

The student demonstrates a sufficient and precise range of vocabulary suitable for describing a technical process and diagram. Appropriate terms from the visual are utilised accurately, such as 'end-effectors', 'stationary', 'pivot', 'flex and rotate', and 'built-in sensors'. Less common lexical items are attempted with good awareness of style and collocation, such as 'precision control', 'alternative end-effectors', and 'necessary movement'. Word choice is generally natural and precise, with no noticeable spelling or word-choice errors that impede communication.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The writer displays a good command of grammatical structures, successfully combining simple and complex sentences. Examples of complex structures include relative clauses and participial phrases, such as 'which is usually stationary but can sometimes be moved' and 'allowing the arm to move upwards and downwards'. The majority of sentences are error-free, and punctuation is handled competently throughout. Grammatical control is consistently maintained, enabling the technical details to be expressed with clarity and precision.

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

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