Band 7.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.0 · Cambridge IELTS 12 · 2026-08-01

IELTS Writing Task 1 question

The diagram below shows how geothermal energy is used to produce electricity.

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

Student answer (Band 7.0)

The diagram illustrates the process of producing electricity from geothermal energy. Overall, there are five main stages, beginning with pumping cold water underground and ending with the generation of electricity.

Initially, cold water is stored in a tank before being pumped approximately 4.5 kilometres below the ground through an injection well. The water then passes through a geothermal zone, where it is heated by hot rocks beneath the Earth's surface.

After being heated, the hot water rises to the surface through a separate production well. It is then transferred into a condenser, where it is converted into steam. The steam is directed towards a turbine, causing it to rotate.

In the final stage, the spinning turbine drives a generator, which produces electricity. The electricity generated is then supplied to the power grid for distribution to consumers.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.5

The response provides a clear overview of the process and covers the main stages from injection to electricity distribution. However, the response is 136 words long, failing to meet the minimum 150-word requirement. This under-length significantly impacts the task achievement score, as the description lacks the necessary detail and depth required for a Band 6 or higher. While the main features are identified, the lack of word count prevents a more thorough explanation of the process, such as elaborating on the temperature or the specific mechanics of the geothermal zone, which would have helped meet the length requirement and provided a more comprehensive summary.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The essay is well-organized with a logical progression of ideas. Each paragraph focuses on a specific stage of the process, which helps the reader follow the sequence easily. The use of cohesive devices such as 'Initially', 'After being heated', and 'In the final stage' is effective and creates a clear flow. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate the introduction from the body stages. While the text is short, the internal structure is coherent and the progression from the injection of water to the final power distribution is handled smoothly.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.0

The vocabulary used is accurate and appropriate for a technical process description. Terms like 'injection well', 'geothermal zone', 'condenser', and 'power grid' are used correctly. The range is sufficient for the task, though it remains somewhat basic. To achieve a higher band, the student could incorporate more sophisticated collocations or precise verbs to describe the movement of energy and water. There are no spelling errors, and the word choice is consistently clear, which ensures that the technical nature of the diagram is conveyed without ambiguity.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The grammar is generally accurate, with a good mix of simple and complex sentence structures. The use of passive voice, such as 'is stored', 'is pumped', and 'is directed', is highly appropriate for a process description and demonstrates good control. There are very few grammatical errors, and the punctuation is used correctly throughout. The sentences are clear and easy to follow. To improve, the student could experiment with more varied sentence starters or combine clauses more fluidly to demonstrate a wider range of grammatical structures.

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