Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · IELTS Complete Catalyst · 2026-08-22

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 7.5)

The diagram illustrates the process of making a water clock using two plastic bottles, a stand, a tap and a straw.

Overall, the process involves filling the upper bottle with water and allowing it to flow into a lower container. The water level in the upper bottle is kept constant, while the markings on the lower bottle indicate the passage of time.

First, a tap is used to fill the upper plastic bottle with water. Once it is filled to the required level, the hole at the bottom is covered with a finger. The bottle is then filled until the water reaches the overflow level. Next, a straw is attached to the side of the bottle and sealed with glue. This helps maintain a constant water level.

Finally, the finger is removed, allowing water to flow through the lower hole into a second plastic bottle with its neck cut off. This container is placed underneath the upper bottle on a stand. The markings on it show how much water has collected and therefore measure the time passed.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The response successfully covers all stages of the process shown in the diagram. You have provided a clear overview of the mechanism and detailed the steps logically. The information is accurate, and the key features—such as the constant water level mechanism and the measurement of time—are well-highlighted. The report is well-structured, and you have effectively addressed the requirements of the task by describing the process in a clear, academic tone suitable for a university lecturer.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The response is logically organized, with a clear introduction, an overview, and distinct paragraphs for the process steps. The use of cohesive devices such as 'First', 'Once', 'Next', and 'Finally' creates a smooth flow of information. Paragraphing is used effectively to separate the preparation phase from the operational phase of the clock. The progression of ideas is easy to follow, and referencing between the upper and lower bottles is clear throughout the text.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

You have used a sufficient range of vocabulary to describe the process accurately, such as 'constant', 'overflow level', and 'passage of time'. The terminology is precise and appropriate for a technical description. While the vocabulary is functional and clear, it could be further enhanced by incorporating more sophisticated synonyms or technical collocations to reach the highest band. However, the current range is more than adequate for the task and demonstrates good control over the subject matter.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The writing displays a good command of grammatical structures. You have successfully used a mix of simple and complex sentences, such as 'The water level in the upper bottle is kept constant, while the markings on the lower bottle indicate the passage of time.' The passive voice is used appropriately for a process description (e.g., 'is filled', 'is attached', 'is removed'). There are no significant grammatical errors, and the punctuation is accurate, contributing to the overall clarity of the report.

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

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