Band 7.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.0 · Cambridge IELTS 12 · 2026-08-05

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 exploiting geothermal energy to produce electricity at a geothermal power plant. Overall, it is clear that the cycle involves five main stages, beginning with pumping cold water deep underground and ending with the generation of electricity. Notably, the system utilizes heat from underground layers of hot rock to convert water into steam to operate turbines and generators.

In the initial stage, cold water from the surface is pumped down to a depth of 4.5 km through an injection well to reach the geothermal zone containing hot rocks. This is subsequently followed by water absorbing heat from hot rocks, and it is pumped back to the surface through the production well as hot water.

Regarding the next stage involving surface operations, hot water passes through the condenser to form steam. Then the steam is subsequently directed to the turbine, driving the turbine blades. This motion operates the generator, thereby producing electricity. The process concludes when the generated electricity is transmitted to the power grid to meet consumption needs.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.5

The response effectively covers all stages of the geothermal energy production process. You have successfully identified the main features, such as the injection well, the geothermal zone, and the conversion of heat into electricity. The overview provides a clear summary of the process, which is a key requirement for Task 1. The information is well-selected, and the comparison between the underground and surface operations is logical. To reach a higher band, you could provide more specific detail on the technical aspects shown in the diagram, such as the depth of 4.5 km or the specific role of the condenser, to ensure the report is as comprehensive as possible.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.0

The report is logically organized, with a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and a concluding step. The progression of ideas is easy to follow, moving chronologically from the injection of water to the final transmission of electricity. You have used cohesive devices such as 'In the initial stage', 'subsequently', and 'Regarding the next stage' to link your ideas effectively. The paragraphing is appropriate, separating the underground process from the surface operations. The flow is smooth, and the use of referencing is clear throughout the text.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

You have used a good range of vocabulary appropriate for a technical description, such as 'exploiting', 'geothermal zone', 'injection well', and 'transmitted'. The word choice is generally precise and fits the context well. There are no significant errors in spelling or collocation. To improve further, you could incorporate more sophisticated technical terminology or varied synonyms to avoid repeating words like 'stage' or 'process'. Overall, the vocabulary is sufficient to convey the information clearly and accurately.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.0

The writing demonstrates a good command of grammatical structures. You have used a mix of simple and complex sentences effectively, such as 'Notably, the system utilizes heat from underground layers of hot rock to convert water into steam to operate turbines and generators.' The use of passive voice is appropriate for a process description. There are very few grammatical errors, and the punctuation is accurate. The sentences are well-constructed, and the control over complex forms is consistent, which supports clear communication throughout the response.

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