Band Descriptors (Bands 4-6)

A Simple Guide to IELTS Writing Band Descriptors (Bands 4-6)

Introduction:

The IELTS Writing test is a significant aspect of the exam, and understanding the band descriptors for Bands 4 to 6 is crucial for improvement. In this article, we’ll demystify the IELTS Writing Band Descriptors in simple language, providing examples to help you grasp the expectations at each level.

Band 4: Limited User

Task Achievement (Task 1 and 2):

• Task 1: Provides some information but may not fully cover the task.
  • Example: Describes the chart but misses key details.
• Task 2: Presents some ideas, but they lack development and coherence.
  • Example: Offers a few points on the topic without supporting details.

Coherence and Cohesion:

• Limited organization, making it challenging for the reader to follow the ideas.
  • Example: Jumping between ideas without clear transitions.
• Attempts to use linking words, but connections may be unclear.
  • Example: “However,” used without a clear contrast in the context.

Lexical Resource:

• Basic vocabulary with some errors and inaccuracies.
  • Example: Uses “big” instead of “significant” or “large.”
• Repetition and limited variety in word choice.
  • Example: Repeatedly uses the same words to convey ideas.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy:

• Simple sentence structures predominate.
  • Example: Relies on basic sentence structures like “subject + verb + object.”
• Frequent errors in grammar and sentence construction.
  • Example: Misuses verb tenses or makes subject-verb agreement errors.

Band 5: Modest User

Task Achievement (Task 1 and 2):

• Task 1: Provides an overview but with limited detail.
  • Example: Summarizes the key points but lacks specific data.
• Task 2: Presents some relevant ideas, but they may lack depth.
  • Example: Offers a few arguments without thorough explanation.

Coherence and Cohesion:

• Shows some ability to organize ideas, but the structure may be unclear.
  • Example: Ideas are arranged, but the flow is not smooth.
• Attempts to use linking words but with inconsistencies.
  • Example: Uses “however” in one paragraph but not in others.

Lexical Resource:

• Demonstrates a somewhat wider range of vocabulary.
  • Example: Uses synonyms like “significant” instead of always using “big.”
• Some inaccuracies and errors, but communication is generally possible.
  • Example: Occasional word choice errors that do not hinder understanding.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy:

• More varied sentence structures attempted.
  • Example: Includes a mix of simple and compound sentences.
• Noticeable errors but with communication remaining clear in most instances.
  • Example: Few grammar mistakes that do not obscure the overall meaning.

Band 6: Competent User

Task Achievement (Task 1 and 2):

• Task 1: Presents a clear overview with adequate detail.
  • Example: Summarizes and provides specific details from the chart.
• Task 2: Addresses the task appropriately, with well-supported ideas.
  • Example: Presents arguments with supporting examples and explanations.

Coherence and Cohesion:

• Generally well-organized with a clear progression of ideas.
  • Example: Ideas are logically arranged, with a clear introduction, body, and conclusion.
• Effective use of linking words for coherence.
  • Example: Uses linking words like “however” to connect contrasting ideas.

Lexical Resource:

• Shows a good range of vocabulary with occasional inaccuracies.
  • Example: Uses a variety of words like “significant,” “noteworthy,” and “considerable.”
• Attempts to use less common words and phrases.
  • Example: Incorporates idiomatic expressions or less common vocabulary.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy:

• Varied sentence structures are used effectively.
  • Example: Includes a mix of simple, compound, and complex sentences.
• Some errors still present but do not impede communication.
  • Example: Occasional grammatical errors that do not hinder overall understanding.

Tips for Improvement:

1. Task Achievement:
   • Clearly understand the task requirements.
   • Ensure all aspects of the task are addressed adequately.
2. Coherence and Cohesion:
   • Organize your ideas logically with a clear introduction, body, and conclusion.
   • Use linking words consistently to guide the reader.
3. Lexical Resource:
   • Work on expanding your vocabulary by learning synonyms and related phrases.
   • Be cautious of repeating words excessively.
4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy:
   • Practice using a variety of sentence structures.
   • Review and correct common grammatical errors.

Remember, improvement takes time and practice. Regularly review your writing, seeking feedback to identify areas for enhancement. With dedication and focus, you can progress from one band level to the next in the IELTS Writing test.