Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · IELTS Momentum Workout · 2026-09-22

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 the structure and operation of a computer-controlled mechanical arm, showing how its joints and end-effectors enable it to perform tasks in a similar manner to a human arm.

Overall, the arm consists of a stationary or movable base, a shoulder, a rotating pivot, an elbow, a wrist and a gripper, with the movements of these components being controlled by three motors. The gripper can also be replaced by alternative end-effectors, allowing the machine to carry out a range of industrial operations.

At the base of the mechanism is a shoulder joint, which is responsible for raising and lowering the arm. Above this, a pivot enables the entire arm to rotate, while the elbow provides flexibility and allows the upper and lower sections of the arm to move relative to one another. These movements are powered by motors, which receive precise instructions from a computer.

At the far end, the wrist permits the gripper, or another attached tool, to flex and rotate. The gripper itself contains built-in sensors that regulate the force applied to an object, in much the same way that a human hand adjusts its grip. Depending on the task, it can be replaced with a spray gun, drill or welding tool, enabling the mechanical arm to perform activities such as painting, drilling holes and welding metal.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The student has fully addressed all parts of the task by providing a comprehensive summary of how the mechanical arm works and how its joints function analogously to a human arm. The overview successfully highlights the main features, such as the base, shoulder, pivot, elbow, wrist, and gripper, as well as the alternative end-effectors. Specific details regarding motor control and sensor functions are accurately reported from the visual data. The information is well-selected, logically grouped, and completely relevant, meeting all the requirements of Band 8.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The response is logically sequenced and easy to follow, progressing naturally from an introduction of the whole system to specific components and their operations. Paragraphing is used appropriately, with a clear introductory paragraph, an overview paragraph, and well-organized body paragraphs discussing the lower and upper sections of the arm. Cohesive devices such as 'Overall', 'Above this', and 'Depending on the task' are managed well without being obtrusive. Referencing throughout the text is clear and precise.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.5

The student demonstrates a wide and flexible range of vocabulary suited to a technical description. Less common lexical items and collocations are used skillfully, such as 'computer-controlled', 'end-effectors', 'industrial operations', 'relative to one another', and 'built-in sensors'. Word choices and spelling are accurate throughout, reflecting a strong command of topic-specific terminology without noticeable awkwardness or errors, easily satisfying Band 8 requirements.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The writer employs a wide range of complex sentence structures with a high degree of accuracy. Sentences such as 'Above this, a pivot enables the entire arm to rotate, while the elbow provides flexibility and allows the upper and lower sections of the arm to move relative to one another' demonstrate excellent syntactic variety and control. The majority of sentences are completely error-free, and punctuation is handled correctly, warranting a solid Band 8 score.

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

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