Band 6.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.0 · Cambridge IELTS 12 · 2026-08-29

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 provided pictorial representation demonstrates the method to generate electrical power using geothermal energy.

In an overview, it is evident that it is a complex five-step process to produce electricity, starting from storing cold water and ending with generation of electricity by a generator through the use of various machines.

In the initial stage, cold water is stored in a container. In the subsequent stage, the cold water is pumped down to an injection well of 4.5km length. Once the process of pumping cold water is finished, water is passed through a geothermal zone which consists of hot rocks then obtained hot water is sent to the production well. In the next step, hot water from the production well is pumped up to the condenser where it is converted to steam. In the last stage, obtained steam is used to run a turbine which powers the generator to produce electricity which is sent to the electrical towers.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.0

The response covers the main stages of the geothermal energy process, from the injection of cold water to the final generation of electricity. You have successfully identified the key features of the diagram. However, to reach a higher band, you should aim to provide more precise details, such as the depth of the injection well (4.5km) and the specific components like the condenser and turbine. While you have summarized the process, the description is somewhat linear and could benefit from more analytical comparisons or a more sophisticated synthesis of how the stages interact to form a continuous cycle.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.0

The response is logically organized, with a clear introduction and a step-by-step progression through the process. You have used basic cohesive devices such as 'In the initial stage', 'In the subsequent stage', and 'In the last stage' to guide the reader. While this is effective, the reliance on these time-based markers is somewhat mechanical. To improve, try to vary your linking phrases and use more sophisticated referencing to connect the stages, which would help the flow feel more natural and less like a list of steps.

Lexical Resource — Band 5.5

You have used a sufficient range of vocabulary to describe the process, including terms like 'geothermal zone', 'injection well', 'condenser', and 'turbine'. The vocabulary is accurate and relevant to the topic. However, there is a lack of more sophisticated or 'less common' lexical items that would demonstrate a wider range. Phrases like 'pictorial representation' are a bit wordy; using more concise, academic language would enhance the quality of your writing. Overall, the vocabulary is adequate for the task and does not impede communication.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.0

The response contains a mix of simple and complex sentence structures. While the grammar is generally accurate, there are some minor issues with article usage and phrasing, such as 'generation of electricity by a generator' which is slightly repetitive. You have used some passive voice constructions, which is appropriate for a process description. To achieve a higher band, focus on incorporating a wider variety of complex sentence structures and ensuring that your punctuation is consistently precise throughout the text.

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.