Grammar for Band 7+ Writing

To achieve Band 7 or above for Grammatical Range and Accuracy, you need to demonstrate a variety of complex structures with frequent error-free sentences. This lesson covers the specific grammatical structures that examiners look for and the most common errors to avoid.

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What the Band Descriptors Say

Grammatical Range and Accuracy
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Band 6  Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence
        forms. Makes some errors in grammar and
        punctuation but they rarely reduce communication.

Band 7  Uses a VARIETY of complex structures.
        Produces FREQUENT error-free sentences.
        Has good control of grammar and punctuation
        but may make a few errors.

Band 8  Uses a WIDE RANGE of structures.
        The MAJORITY of sentences are error-free.
        Makes only very occasional errors or
        inappropriacies.

The key jump from Band 6 to Band 7 is variety and accuracy of complex structures.

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Essential Complex Structures

1. Conditional Sentences

Conditionals demonstrate sophistication and are natural in academic essays.

First Conditional (real/possible):

If governments invest in renewable energy, carbon emissions will decrease significantly.

Second Conditional (hypothetical):

If every country adopted this policy, global pollution levels would fall dramatically.