IELTS Writing: Grammar Expectations by Band Score
What Examiners Look For:
Limited range of grammatical structures
Attempts at complex sentences often inaccurate
Frequent errors in basic grammar
Some sentences may be difficult to understand
Example Extract (Band 5): "Many people think that technology is good for education. In my opinion, I agree with this statement because technology help students to learn better. For example, students can use computer to search information and they can study at home."
Key Issues: Subject-verb disagreement ("technology help"), basic structures, repetitive patterns.
What Examiners Look For:
Mix of simple and complex sentence forms
Some errors in complex structures but meaning is clear
Generally accurate simple sentences
Improved paragraph structure
Example Extract (Band 6): "Many people believe that technology has a positive impact on education. I agree with this viewpoint because technology enables students to enhance their learning experience. For instance, students can utilize computers to research information, and they have the flexibility to study from home."
Improvements: Better subject-verb agreement, more sophisticated vocabulary, clearer sentence structure.
What Examiners Look For:
Variety of complex grammatical structures
Many sentences are error-free
Good control of grammar and punctuation
Occasional errors in less common structures
Example Extract (Band 7): "There is widespread agreement that technology has revolutionized educational practices. I strongly support this position, as technological integration not only facilitates more engaging learning experiences but also provides unprecedented access to educational resources. Students who utilize digital platforms can access vast databases of information while benefiting from flexible learning schedules that accommodate their individual needs."
Strengths: Complex sentence structures, varied connectors, sophisticated vocabulary integration, clear argumentation.
What Examiners Look For:
Wide range of grammatical structures used accurately
Rare minor errors that don't affect communication
Flexible and precise language use
Natural, sophisticated expression
Example Extract (Band 8-9): "The transformative impact of technology on contemporary educational paradigms cannot be overstated. Not only has digital innovation democratized access to learning resources, but it has also fundamentally altered pedagogical approaches, enabling personalized learning experiences that were previously inconceivable. Students today can engage with interactive content, collaborate with peers globally, and access expert instruction regardless of geographical constraints—a reality that would have been deemed impossible merely decades ago."
Excellence markers: Complex structures, sophisticated vocabulary, varied sentence patterns, seamless idea flow.
