Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · IELTS Complete Catalyst · 2026-09-19

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 diagrams illustrate the process of making and using a simple water clock to measure the passage of time.

Overall, the process consists of several stages, beginning with preparing a plastic bottle and attaching it to a stand, and ending with measuring the water level in a separate container. The system works by allowing water to flow at a relatively constant rate through a small hole.

First, a plastic bottle is fixed securely to a stand using tape. A straw is then inserted through a hole in the lower part of the bottle and sealed carefully with glue to prevent water from leaking around the connection. The bottle is subsequently filled with water until it reaches the overflow level. At this point, the hole is covered with a finger to prevent the water from escaping.

Next, the bottle is positioned above a second container, which is made from a plastic bottle with its neck cut off. Once the container is correctly placed underneath the straw, the finger is removed from the hole. Water then begins to flow steadily through the straw and into the lower container. As the water accumulates, its level rises gradually, and the markings on the container can be used to determine the amount of time that has passed.

Finally, after a specific period has been measured, the lower container is emptied. The entire procedure can then be repeated whenever the water clock is required for timing different activities.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The student covers all key stages of the water clock creation and operation process well. The report begins with a clear, concise overview stating that the diagrams illustrate the process of making and using a simple water clock. The student accurately sequences the steps, from preparing the plastic bottle and attaching it to a stand, to filling it, controlling the water flow, and measuring the resulting water level in the lower container. Key features from the visual data, such as the use of a straw for overflow, the tap, and the calibration markings, are well integrated into the description. There are no notable omissions or misinterpretations of the source diagram, resulting in a fully developed and well-rounded response that meets all requirements of Task 1.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The report displays a clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Information is grouped sensibly into paragraphs that follow the chronological stages of the process. Cohesive devices such as 'First', 'Subsequently', 'Next', and 'Finally' are used naturally and effectively to guide the reader through the steps. Paragraphing is used appropriately, separating the introduction, overarching summary, preparation stage, operation stage, and concluding usage. Referencing is clear throughout, with pronouns and determiners accurately linking back to previously mentioned elements, ensuring seamless transitions between sentences.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.0

The student demonstrates a sufficient and flexible range of vocabulary appropriate for a process description. Words and phrases such as 'securing', 'prevent water from leaking', 'accumulates', and 'calibration markings' show precision and good control. Less common lexical items are used naturally to describe technical actions, such as 'sealed carefully', 'overflow level', and 'determine the amount of time'. There are no spelling errors or awkward word choices that impede communication, and the tone remains appropriately formal and objective throughout the response.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The student exhibits excellent control over grammar and sentence structure. A wide variety of complex sentence structures is used accurately, including passive constructions ('is fixed securely', 'is subsequently filled') and subordinate clauses ('to prevent water from leaking', 'once the container is correctly placed'). The majority of sentences are completely error-free, with punctuation and tense consistency maintained throughout. Minor errors are virtually absent, and syntactic flexibility supports clear communication of complex mechanical steps.

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