Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 16 · 2026-08-16

IELTS Writing Task 1 question

The diagram below shows the manufacturing process for making sugar from sugar cane.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

How sugar is produced from sugar cane

Student answer (Band 7.5)

The diagram illustrates the process of producing sugar from sugar cane.

Overall, it is a linear process which includes seven distinct stages. The first three stages consist of extracting juice from the sugar cane, while the remaining four stages involve processing and refining it into sugar crystals.

Firstly, sugar cane is cultivated for a period of 12 to 18 months until it reaches maturity. Once the cane has matured, it is ready for harvesting. There are two methods of harvesting: it can be done manually by workers, or it can be carried out using machinery.

After the sugar cane has been harvested, it is transported to a crushing machine. The cane is then crushed in order to extract the juice. The extracted juice is subsequently passed through a limestone filter to remove impurities and purify the liquid. Following this, an evaporator is used to heat the juice and convert it into syrup. Furthermore, once the syrup has been sufficiently thickened, it is placed in a centrifuge. This machine separates the sugar crystals from the remaining syrup. In the final stage, the collected sugar crystals are dried and cooled before being packaged as the final product.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.0

The response effectively covers all stages of the sugar production process. You have successfully identified the main features, such as the two harvesting methods and the sequential refining steps. The overview is clear and provides a good summary of the linear nature of the process. You have accurately described the transition from raw material to the final product. To reach a higher band, ensure that you explicitly highlight the most significant comparisons or contrasts, such as the difference between the mechanical and manual harvesting methods, rather than just listing them. Overall, the information is well-selected and logically presented.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The response is logically organized with a clear progression from the initial cultivation stage to the final packaging. Paragraphing is used effectively to separate the introduction and overview from the detailed process steps. You make good use of cohesive devices such as 'Firstly', 'After', 'Subsequently', and 'Following this', which guide the reader smoothly through the stages. The referencing is clear, and the flow of information is natural. There is no evidence of mechanical or repetitive use of linking words, and the structure supports the overall clarity of the report.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.0

You demonstrate a good range of vocabulary appropriate for a process description, such as 'cultivated', 'maturity', 'impurities', 'evaporator', and 'centrifuge'. The word choice is precise and fits the context well. There are no spelling errors, and the terminology used for the technical aspects of the process is accurate. While the vocabulary is sufficient and precise, incorporating a few more sophisticated collocations or less common technical descriptors could elevate the response further. However, the current range is more than adequate for a clear and professional explanation of the diagram.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.0

The response displays a high level of grammatical control. You use a variety of complex sentence structures, such as passive voice constructions ('is cultivated', 'is transported', 'is passed through'), which are highly appropriate for describing a manufacturing process. Punctuation is accurate, and there are virtually no errors in grammar. The sentences are well-constructed and easy to follow. The consistent use of the passive voice demonstrates a strong grasp of the register required for Academic Task 1. The writing is error-free, reflecting a high level of accuracy.

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