Band 7.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.0 · IELTS Complete Catalyst · 2026-08-16

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 7.0)

The diagram illustrates the process of making a water clock.

In the first stage, the tap is turned on to fill the upper plastic bottle with water. The hole at the bottom of the bottle is then covered with a finger. Next, the bottle is filled with water until it reaches the overflow level. A straw is attached to the bottle and glue is applied around it to maintain a constant water level.

In the fifth stage, the finger is removed from the hole, allowing water to flow out of the upper bottle and into a second plastic bottle positioned underneath it. The water level in the lower bottle is then marked at one-minute intervals, with these markings indicating the passage of time. Finally, the lower bottle is emptied, and the process is repeated by refilling the upper bottle with water.

Overall, the water clock is made through seven stages, beginning with filling the upper bottle and ending with the lower bottle being emptied so that the process can be repeated.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.0

The response successfully covers all stages of the process shown in the diagram. You have clearly identified the key steps, from filling the upper bottle to the final marking and emptying process. The overview is concise and effectively summarises the main purpose of the diagram. The information is accurate and logically presented, ensuring the reader can follow the sequence of events without difficulty. To reach a higher band, you could aim to incorporate more descriptive detail regarding the physical components, such as the specific function of the straw or the role of the glue in creating an airtight seal, which would demonstrate a more thorough engagement with the visual information provided.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The response is well-organised with a clear logical progression. You have used appropriate paragraphing to separate the stages of the process, which helps the reader navigate the text. Cohesive devices such as 'In the first stage', 'Next', 'In the fifth stage', and 'Finally' are used effectively to signal the sequence of events. The flow of ideas is smooth, and the referencing is clear throughout. The structure is consistent and supports the overall purpose of the report. There is no evidence of mechanical or repetitive usage, and the transition between the introduction, body paragraphs, and the summary is seamless.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

You have used a sufficient range of vocabulary to describe the process accurately. Terms such as 'positioned', 'intervals', 'maintaining a constant water level', and 'repeated' are used correctly and in the right context. The language is natural and precise enough for the task. While the vocabulary is functional and accurate, it is somewhat standard. To achieve a higher band, you could incorporate more sophisticated or technical collocations related to mechanical processes, such as 'calibrated', 'facilitating', or 'regulated', which would elevate the academic tone of your writing and demonstrate a wider lexical range.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.0

The response demonstrates a good command of grammatical structures. You have used a mix of simple and complex sentences, such as passive voice constructions ('the tap is turned on', 'glue is applied', 'the lower bottle is emptied'), which is highly appropriate for describing a process. The sentences are generally error-free, and the punctuation is accurate. The control over verb tenses is consistent throughout the report. There are no significant grammatical errors that impede communication. To improve further, you could experiment with more varied sentence structures, such as using participle clauses to combine steps, which would enhance the overall complexity and flow of the text.

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

Browse more IELTS Writing model answers or get your own writing scored by the same AI examiner.