Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · IELTS Complete Catalyst · 2026-08-24

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 building and using a simple water clock to measure time.

Overall, the procedure involves assembling a plastic bottle with a controlled water outlet and placing a measuring container underneath it. The water level is then maintained at a constant height, allowing time to be measured according to the amount of water collected.

First, the tap is turned on and the hole at the bottom of the plastic bottle is covered with a finger. The bottle is then filled with water until it reaches the overflow level. Next, the water level is kept constant while the finger is removed from the hole, allowing water to flow steadily through a straw attached to the bottle. The water collected in the container below is used to measure time in minutes. Finally, the lower container is emptied, and the entire process can be repeated whenever timing is required.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The response provides a clear overview of the process and covers all key stages shown in the diagram. The information is logically selected and presented, with a clear introduction and a step-by-step description of the mechanism. The summary of the procedure is accurate, and the writer successfully identifies the purpose of the water clock. All parts of the prompt are addressed well, and the response is well-developed for the task type. No information is missing, and the description of the flow and measurement process is precise.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The response is logically organized, with a clear progression from the initial setup to the final measurement process. Paragraphing is used effectively to separate the overview from the detailed steps. Cohesive devices such as 'First', 'Next', and 'Finally' are used appropriately to guide the reader through the sequence. The relationship between the sentences is clear, and the flow of information is smooth throughout the text, making it easy to follow the technical process described.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

The vocabulary is accurate and appropriate for a technical description. The writer uses specific terms such as 'controlled water outlet', 'constant height', and 'overflow level' effectively. While the range is sufficient for the task, it could be slightly more varied to reach the highest band. The word choices are precise and contribute to the clarity of the explanation, with no noticeable errors in spelling or collocation that would impede understanding.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The response demonstrates good control over a mix of simple and complex sentence structures. The use of passive voice (e.g., 'is maintained', 'is used to measure') is highly appropriate for a process description. The grammar is accurate throughout, with no significant errors. Punctuation is used correctly to support the structure of the sentences. The writing is fluent and error-free, reflecting a high level of grammatical competence suitable for this type of academic task.

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