Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.5 · IELTS Complete Catalyst · 2026-08-04

IELTS Writing Task 1 question

The diagram below shows the process for making a water clock.

Write a report for a university lecturer describing the information below.

HOW TO BUILD YOUR OWN WATER CLOCK

Student answer (Band 6.5)

The diagram illustrates how a simple water clock is constructed and operated using plastic bottles and a few basic materials.

Overall, the process comprises seven stages, beginning with assembling the device and ending with its use for measuring time. A constant water level is maintained in the upper bottle, allowing water to flow at a steady rate into the container below.

Initially, a plastic bottle is attached to a stand with tape, while a straw is inserted through its upper section and sealed with glue to create an overflow outlet. Before filling the bottle, the hole at its base is covered with a finger. The tap is then turned on until the water reaches the straw and begins to overflow, ensuring that the water level remains constant. Afterwards, the finger is removed, allowing water to drip steadily into a second bottle with its neck cut off. Finally, the lower container is marked with minute intervals, emptied after use, and reused whenever timing is required.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.5

The response effectively covers all stages of the process described in the diagram. You have successfully identified the key components and the logical sequence of construction. The overview provides a clear summary of the process, and the body paragraphs detail the steps accurately without omitting essential information. The tone is appropriate for an academic report, and the information is presented in a clear, objective manner. You have fully addressed the requirements of the task by describing the construction and operation of the water clock in a logical and comprehensive way.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5

The response is well-organized with a clear introduction, a concise overview, and a logical progression of steps in the body paragraph. The use of cohesive devices such as 'Initially', 'Afterwards', and 'Finally' helps the reader follow the sequence of the process smoothly. Paragraphing is used effectively to separate the overview from the detailed description. The flow of ideas is logical, and referencing is clear throughout the text, ensuring that the relationship between the components of the water clock is easy to understand.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.0

You have used a good range of vocabulary appropriate for a process description, such as 'constructed', 'maintained', 'overflow outlet', and 'intervals'. The language is precise and fits the context well. There are no significant errors in word choice or collocation. To reach a higher band, you could incorporate slightly more sophisticated or technical terminology related to the mechanics of the device, but the current range is sufficient and accurate for the task requirements.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.5

The writing demonstrates a good command of complex sentence structures, such as the use of passive voice ('is constructed', 'is attached', 'is inserted') which is highly appropriate for describing a process. The sentences are generally error-free, and the punctuation is used correctly. The control over grammar is consistent, and there are no instances where errors impede communication. The variety of structures used, including participial phrases ('allowing water to flow'), shows a high level of grammatical flexibility.

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