Band 7.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

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

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 generating electricity in a geothermal power plant.

Overall, the process involves five main stages, beginning with cold water being pumped underground and ending with electricity being produced by a generator. The water is heated by hot rocks deep below the ground and is then converted into steam to power a turbine.

First, cold water is pumped down to a depth of approximately 4.5 kilometres through the injection well. It then passes through the geothermal zone, where there are hot rocks. As the water travels through this area, it becomes heated. The hot water is subsequently pumped back to the surface through a separate pipe called the production well.

Next, the heated water reaches the condenser, where it is converted into steam. The steam is then directed towards a turbine, causing the turbine to rotate. The rotating turbine powers a generator, which produces electricity. Finally, the electricity is transferred to the power grid through the electricity lines.

Thus, geothermal power is generated by using underground hot rocks to heat water and produce steam, which ultimately drives a turbine and generator.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.0

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, the production well, and the final conversion to electricity. The overview provides a clear summary of the process, and the information is logically presented. To reach a higher band, ensure that you explicitly mention the depth of 4.5 kilometres in the overview or highlight the cyclical nature of the process more prominently. Overall, the response is accurate and addresses the prompt well.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The essay is well-organised with a clear logical progression. Each paragraph focuses on a specific stage of the process, which makes the information easy to follow. You have used cohesive devices effectively, such as 'First', 'Next', 'subsequently', and 'Finally', to guide the reader through the steps. The paragraphing is appropriate, and the transition between the overview and the body paragraphs is smooth. The use of referencing is clear, and the overall structure is coherent throughout the response.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

You have used a sufficient range of vocabulary to describe the technical process accurately. Terms like 'geothermal zone', 'injection well', 'production well', and 'condenser' are used correctly in context. While the vocabulary is precise, it is mostly functional. To achieve a higher band, you could incorporate more sophisticated collocations or varied synonyms to describe the movement of water and steam, such as 'circulates', 'harnesses', or 'facilitates'. However, the current range is adequate and precise enough for the task.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The response demonstrates a good control of grammatical structures. You have successfully used a mix of simple and complex sentences, such as 'As the water travels through this area, it becomes heated.' The passive voice is used appropriately for a process description, which is a key requirement for this task type. There are no significant grammatical errors, and the punctuation is accurate. The sentences are clear and error-free, showing a good level of flexibility and control.

See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.

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