Band 7.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.0 · IELTS Complete Catalyst · 2026-09-27

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 building a water clock and how it can be used for timing things.

Overall, there are seven main stages in the process, beginning with turning on the tap and filling the upper bottle with water. After that, the water flows through a hole into the lower bottle, where the level is measured per minute. Finally, the lower bottle is emptied and the process is repeated.

To begin with, the tap is turned on and water is allowed to flow into the top plastic bottle. When the bottle is filled to overflowing, the water level is kept constant. The bottle is attached to a stand using tape, and a straw is fixed to it with glue. After the water starts flowing through the straw, it passes through the hole at the bottom of the bottle.

Moreover, the hole is first covered with a finger while the upper bottle is being filled. Then, the finger is removed and the water starts dripping into the lower plastic bottle, which has its neck cut off. The levels on the lower bottle are used to measure the amount of water per minute. Finally, the lower bottle is emptied and the same process is repeated for timing different things.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response: Band 7.5

The student successfully addresses all parts of the task by providing a clear and comprehensive overview of the water clock building process. The response accurately reflects the seven numbered stages depicted in the visual data, starting from turning on the tap and filling the top bottle, through regulating the flow and measuring the water level, down to timing events. The overview section effectively captures the main essence of the diagram without copying the prompt word-for-word. All key features, including the upper and lower bottles, the overflow straw, the wooden stand, and the calibration process, are integrated logically into the body paragraphs. The progression matches the visual flow correctly, demonstrating strong competence in task fulfillment.

Coherence and Cohesion: Band 7.0

The response exhibits a clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Information is grouped sensibly into paragraphs, moving from an introductory overview to general sequential steps, and then detailing the physical setup and operational stages. Cohesive devices such as 'Overall', 'To begin with', 'After that', and 'Finally' are used appropriately to guide the reader through the process. Paragraphing is handled effectively, ensuring distinct divisions between the structural components of the apparatus and the steps involved in operating the water clock. Referencing is consistently clear, and the overall flow remains smooth and easy to follow from start to finish.

Lexical Resource: Band 6.5

The student uses an adequate and appropriate range of vocabulary suited to a process description. Terms such as 'illustrates', 'constant', 'overflow', 'calibration' (implied via levels), and 'apparatus' elements (tap, straw, plastic bottle, stand) are deployed accurately. While the vocabulary is generally standard rather than highly sophisticated, it is precise enough to convey the mechanical details clearly. There are occasional repetitions of basic verbs like 'fill' and 'flow', but word choice and spelling remain strong throughout, with no errors that impede understanding or hinder the fluency of the text.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 7.5

The response displays a good variety of sentence structures, including both simple and complex forms. Passive voice structures appropriate for a scientific process report, such as 'is filled to overflowing', 'is attached to a stand', and 'is emptied', are handled with a high degree of accuracy. Complex subordinate clauses introduced by 'when', 'while', and 'which' are integrated smoothly and correctly. Grammar and punctuation are well controlled, and the vast majority of sentences are error-free, reflecting a solid command of English grammar suitable for academic writing tasks.

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