Band 6.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.0 · Cambridge IELTS 12 · 2026-09-10

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 process of generating electricity using geothermal energy.

Overall, the process consists of five main steps, starting from pumping cold water underground and ending with the production and distribution of electricity.

To begin with, cold water is stored above ground in a tank. In the first step, this cold water is pumped down 4.5 km into the earth through an injection well. After reaching the bottom, the water goes through a geothermal zone containing hot rocks, where the water gets heated up.

In the third stage, the hot water is pumped up to the surface through the production well into a condenser. Next, the condenser turns the hot water into steam. This steam then powers a turbine, causing it to spin. Finally, the spinning turbine powers a generator, which produces electricity that is sent to the grid through power lines.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.5

The response covers the main stages of the geothermal energy process clearly and accurately. However, the response is 143 words long, failing to meet the 150-word minimum requirement. This under-length significantly impacts the score as it prevents a more detailed analysis or a more comprehensive overview of the process. While the main features are identified, the lack of length means the response feels slightly rushed and lacks the depth expected for a Band 6 or higher. To improve, ensure you expand on the descriptions of the equipment or the physical changes occurring at each stage to comfortably exceed the word count.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5

The response is logically organized, with a clear introduction and a step-by-step progression through the process. Paragraphing is used effectively to separate the stages of the cycle. Cohesive devices such as 'To begin with', 'In the first step', 'After reaching', 'In the third stage', and 'Finally' are used appropriately to guide the reader through the sequence. The flow of information is natural and easy to follow. The structure is sound, and the progression of ideas is logical throughout the short text.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.0

The vocabulary is adequate for the task, using subject-specific terms correctly such as 'injection well', 'geothermal zone', 'condenser', and 'turbine'. The range is sufficient to describe the process clearly. While there is little use of sophisticated or less common lexical items, the word choice is precise and fits the context well. There are no spelling errors, and the terminology is used accurately. To reach a higher band, you could incorporate more varied verbs or descriptive phrases to enhance the technical description of the process.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.5

The response demonstrates a good command of grammar with a mix of simple and complex sentence structures. The use of passive voice ('is stored', 'is pumped', 'is sent') is appropriate for a process description. There are very few grammatical errors, and the punctuation is accurate. The sentences are clear and well-constructed. While the range of structures is somewhat limited, the accuracy is high, which supports clear communication. The writing is error-free, which is a strong point, though more variety in sentence starters or complex clauses would be beneficial.

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

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