Band 6.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.0 · Cambridge IELTS 12 · 2026-08-20

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 6.0)

The diagram illustrates the procedure of using geothermal energy for production of electricity.

The process begins with the pumping of the cold water downwards from the reservoir. After pumping for about 4.5 km downwards, water reaches the injection well from where it goes to the production well through the geothermal zone which is full of hot rocks. The cold water is converted to hot water in the geothermal zone.

When hot water reaches the production well, it is pumped upwards to the condenser. Steam from the hot water is transferred to the turbine.

The steam is the main power source of the turbine. The steam rotates the blades of the turbine creating mechanical energy. The mechanical energy powers the generator attached to the turbine. The mechanical energy of the turbine is then converted to the electrical energy of the generator. This electrical energy is directly used in the power towers.

The diagram cleanly depicts how one energy is converted to another energy effectively. It also shows how natural resources can be used efficiently.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.5

The response covers the main stages of the geothermal energy process, from the injection of water to the final production of electricity. However, the report lacks a clear overview or summary of the process, which is a key requirement for Task 1. The description is largely a sequential list of steps rather than a synthesis of the information. While the main features are identified, the response would benefit from a more analytical approach that highlights the cyclical nature of the process or the key transformations involved. The final paragraph is unnecessary as it provides a subjective opinion rather than reporting the data provided in the diagram.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5

The response is logically organized, following the sequence of the diagram. Paragraphing is used to separate the different stages of the process, which helps the reader follow the flow of information. Cohesive devices such as 'The process begins with', 'After', and 'When' are used effectively to link sentences. However, the transition between the mechanical energy phase and the final electrical output could be smoother. The overall progression is clear, but the final paragraph feels disconnected from the factual reporting required for this task, slightly impacting the coherence of the report as a whole.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.0

The vocabulary is generally appropriate for the task, with terms like 'geothermal zone', 'injection well', 'condenser', and 'mechanical energy' used correctly. There is an adequate range of vocabulary to describe the process. However, the language is somewhat repetitive, particularly the frequent use of 'energy' and 'water'. To reach a higher band, the student should aim for more varied collocations and precise terminology to describe the conversion processes. There are no significant spelling errors, and the vocabulary used is sufficient to convey the intended meaning clearly throughout the response.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.0

The response demonstrates a mix of simple and complex sentence structures. Most sentences are grammatically accurate, and the meaning is always clear. There are some minor issues with article usage, such as 'for production of electricity' (should be 'the production') and 'to the electrical energy' (should be 'into electrical energy'). While the control of grammar is generally good, the range of complex structures is somewhat limited. The majority of sentences are error-free, and the errors present do not impede communication or cause confusion for the reader.

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

Browse more IELTS Writing model answers or get your own writing scored by the same AI examiner.