Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 12 · 2026-08-26

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 7.5)

The diagram illustrates the process by which geothermal energy is used to generate electricity in a geothermal power plant.

Overall, the process consists of five main stages, beginning with the injection of cold water deep underground and ending with the production of electricity by a generator. The key stages involve heating water using naturally occurring hot rocks, converting the heated water into steam, and using this steam to drive a turbine.

Initially, cold water is pumped approximately 4.5 kilometres below the ground through an injection well. It then passes through a geothermal zone containing hot rocks, where the water is naturally heated. After travelling through this underground area, the heated water is pumped back to the surface via a separate production well.

At the next stage, the hot water enters a condenser, where steam is produced. This steam is then directed towards a turbine, causing its blades to rotate. In the final stage, the rotating turbine powers a generator, which converts the mechanical energy into electricity. The electricity produced can subsequently be transmitted through power lines for use by consumers.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The response effectively summarizes the geothermal energy production process. You have clearly identified the main stages, from the initial injection of water to the final generation of electricity. The overview provides a concise summary of the entire cycle, which is a key requirement for Task 1. You have successfully incorporated specific details from the diagram, such as the depth of 4.5 kilometres and the role of the condenser and turbine. The information is accurate and logically presented, covering all parts of the task well without any significant omissions. The progression of the process is easy to follow, and the comparison of the different stages is well-handled.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The response is logically organized, with a clear introduction, a summary paragraph, and two body paragraphs that detail the process chronologically. The use of cohesive devices such as 'Initially', 'It then passes', 'After travelling', 'At the next stage', and 'In the final stage' creates a smooth flow of information. Each paragraph has a clear central topic, and the transition between the underground phase and the surface phase is handled effectively. The referencing is clear, and the overall structure is coherent, making the text easy to read and follow.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.0

You have used a good range of vocabulary appropriate for a technical process description, such as 'geothermal power plant', 'injection well', 'production well', 'condenser', and 'mechanical energy'. The terminology is accurate and used in the correct context. While the vocabulary is functional and precise, it could be slightly more varied to reach the highest band. For instance, instead of repeating 'pumped', you could use 'circulated' or 'forced'. However, the current range is sufficient to convey the information clearly and accurately, and there are no noticeable errors in word choice or collocation.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The response demonstrates a high level of grammatical control. You have used a variety of complex sentence structures, such as passive voice constructions ('water is pumped', 'steam is produced'), which are highly appropriate for describing a scientific process. The use of participial phrases ('beginning with...', 'causing its blades to rotate') adds sophistication to the writing. There are no significant grammatical errors, and the punctuation is used correctly throughout. The majority of sentences are error-free, and the control over complex structures is consistent and accurate.

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