Breaking Down the IELTS Writing Band Descriptors

Article Level: C1-C2

Explanation: This article clearly explains the IELTS Writing band descriptors—Task Achievement, Coherence, Lexical Resource, and Grammar—showing how understanding each criterion helps candidates balance their skills and achieve higher band scores.

Commonly Used Words from the Article

1. Descriptor /dɪˈskrɪptə/ (noun): A label or term used to describe something.

   Examiners use detailed descriptors to evaluate each task.

2. Cohesion /kəʊˈhiːʒən/ (noun): The action of forming a united whole; in writing, how ideas connect smoothly.

   Cohesion makes your essay easier to follow.

3.  Paraphrase /ˈparəfreɪz/ (verb): To express the same meaning using different words.
   
   Paraphrasing the question shows understanding and language control.

4. Flexibility /ˌflɛksɪˈbɪlɪti/ (noun): The ability to adapt or use language in different ways.

   Vocabulary flexibility helps you express complex ideas effectively.

5. Pretension /prɪˈtɛnʃən/ (noun): The act of trying to appear more important or knowledgeable than you are.

   Avoid pretension by using words you fully understand.

Read more: Breaking Down the IELTS Writing Band Descriptors

  Breaking Down the IELTS Writing Band Descriptors

Achieving a high score in the IELTS Writing test requires more than fluent English; it demands a clear understanding of the band descriptors—the official criteria examiners use to assess your writing. Whether you aim for a Band 7 or aspire to reach Band 9, knowing what these descriptors mean can significantly shape how you plan, write, and review your essays.

The IELTS Writing band descriptors are divided into four key categories: Task Achievement (or Task Response), Coherence and Cohesion, Lexical Resource, and Grammatical Range and Accuracy. Each category contributes equally to your overall band score, so excelling in one area is not enough—you need balance across all.

1. Task Achievement / Task Response
For Task 1 (Academic or General Training), examiners look for how well you address the task and summarise or describe information accurately. For Task 2 (the essay), they assess how effectively you develop an argument and support it with relevant examples. High-scoring responses demonstrate a clear position throughout and fully answer all parts of the question. Avoid memorised phrases and off-topic ideas, as they weaken your score.

2. Coherence and Cohesion
This criterion measures how logically your ideas are organised and connected. A well-structured essay uses linking words (however, therefore, in contrast) naturally, rather than excessively. Each paragraph should focus on a single idea, with smooth transitions guiding the reader from one point to another. Cohesion should enhance clarity, not overwhelm it.

3. Lexical Resource
Your vocabulary reflects your ability to express ideas precisely. Examiners reward a wide range of vocabulary used appropriately and naturally. To reach a Band 8 or above, you must demonstrate flexibility—paraphrasing effectively, avoiding repetition, and selecting accurate collocations. However, don’t use complex words inaccurately; clarity always outweighs pretension.

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy
A sophisticated writer employs a variety of sentence structures—simple, compound, and complex—without frequent grammatical errors. Punctuation, verb tense consistency, and subject-verb agreement are equally crucial. Band 9 candidates rarely make mistakes, while Band 7 writers may have occasional slips that do not impede understanding.

In short, mastering the IELTS Writing descriptors means mastering the art of balance. Strong vocabulary without coherence or solid grammar without task fulfilment will not earn a top score. The most successful candidates study sample scripts, analyse feedback, and continuously refine each skill area. With deliberate practice and awareness of what examiners truly value, a higher band score becomes not just possible—but predictable.

Grammar Notes

• • The article frequently uses complex sentences to express advanced ideas. A complex sentence contains an independent clause and one or more dependent clauses connected by conjunctions (because, although, while, if, since).

    Example from the article:
    “Although vocabulary is important, clarity always outweighs pretension.”

    Lesson:

    • Use subordinate clauses to add detail and nuance.

    • Begin sentences with linking words (Although, Because, Since) to show relationships between ideas.

    • This improves the logical flow and demonstrates grammatical sophistication—a key factor in higher IELTS bands.
      
      

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Five Questions Based on the Article

• What are the four main categories in the IELTS Writing band descriptors?

• Why is balance across all categories important for a high band score?

• How does “Coherence and Cohesion” affect the readability of an essay?

• What is meant by “Lexical Resource,” and why is flexibility important?

• What strategies can help improve your grammatical range and accuracy?
  
  

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