Band 5.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 5.5 · Cambridge IELTS 12 · 2026-08-19
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 5.5)
The diagram represents how electricity is produced by geothermal energy, it includes 5 basic steps to conduct it.
Overall, it is noticeable that water plays a crucial role in conducting electricity and some big machines such as generator, condenser are also be needed to generate the energy. So let me introduce you step by step.
First step begin with pumping down the cold water into a 4.5km long pipe which is digged underground, after that we move to injection level in geothermal zone is founded which evaporates the water through hot rocks, at the third level it is named as production level the water is pumped up from the ground but this time it is heated.
Fourth step contains a condenser, which helps the water to get converted into steam and though a small panel. Turbine is the last step which is powered by steam and thus it get to the generator powered by turbine and produces electricity into the main tower.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 5.5 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 6.0 |
| Lexical Resource | 5.5 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 5.5 |
| Overall | 5.5 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.5
The response covers the main features of the geothermal energy process, identifying the key stages from pumping water to electricity generation. However, the description is somewhat superficial and lacks the precision required for a higher band. For instance, the explanation of the 'injection level' and 'production level' is slightly confused, and the role of the condenser is misrepresented as converting water to steam, whereas in this process, it typically condenses steam back into water. The overview is also a bit informal ('So let me introduce you'). To improve, ensure you accurately describe the technical function of each component and maintain a formal, objective tone throughout the report.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.0
The response is organized into paragraphs, which helps the reader follow the process. However, the use of cohesive devices is somewhat mechanical and occasionally awkward, such as 'First step begin with' and 'at the third level it is named as'. The transition between the overview and the body paragraphs is abrupt and informal. While there is a logical progression from the start to the end of the process, the lack of sophisticated linking words and the repetitive sentence structures limit the flow. Improving the variety of transition signals would enhance the overall coherence.
Lexical Resource — Band 5.5
The vocabulary is adequate for the task but lacks the precision and range expected at higher levels. There are several instances of imprecise word choice, such as 'digged' (incorrect form of 'dig') and 'conduct electricity' (which is not the primary function of the water here). The use of 'big machines' is too informal for an academic report. To reach a higher band, you should use more specific technical terminology related to energy production and avoid informal phrasing. Focus on using precise verbs and nouns that accurately describe the mechanical process shown in the diagram.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.5
The response contains a mix of simple and complex sentence structures, but there are frequent grammatical errors that occasionally hinder clarity. Examples include 'are also be needed' (incorrect passive voice), 'First step begin' (subject-verb agreement), and 'digged' (incorrect past participle). Punctuation is also inconsistent, with some run-on sentences and comma splices. While the meaning is generally clear, the frequency of these errors prevents the writing from reaching a higher band. Focusing on subject-verb agreement, correct verb tenses, and avoiding run-on sentences will significantly improve your score.
See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.
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