Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 12 · 2026-09-26

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 step-by-step process of how geothermal energy is utilized to generate electricity

Overall, it is clear that the production of electricity involves five main stages, beginning with pumping cold water underground and ending with the distribution of power. Additionally, the entire process relies heavily on underground heat to convert water into steam

In the first stage, cold water is pumped down into the earth to a depth of approximately 4.5 kilometers. It then enters an injection well that leads into the geothermal zone, where the water is heated by hot rocks. After becoming hot, the liquid is forced upwards back to the surface through a separate production well.

Once the hot water reaches the surface, it is directed into a condenser. In this stage, the hot water is transformed into steam, which is then used to power a turbine. The rotation of the turbine drives a generator, which successfully produces electricity. Finally, this generated power is sent to the grid for public use.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response: Band 8.0

The student successfully addresses all parts of the task by providing a clear and accurate summary of the geothermal energy production process. An appropriate and well-formulated overview is provided in the second paragraph, highlighting the main stages and the underlying mechanism of utilizing underground heat to convert water into steam. Key features shown in the diagram—such as the 4.5-kilometer depth of the injection well, the geothermal zone with hot rocks, the production well, the condenser, the turbine, and the generator—are accurately reported and logically sequenced without any major omissions or invented data.

Coherence and Cohesion: Band 8.0

The response is logically sequenced and easy to follow. Ideas are clearly organized into an introductory paragraph, an overview paragraph, and two body paragraphs detailing the sequential steps of the process. Cohesive devices such as 'Overall', 'In the first stage', 'Once the hot water reaches the surface', and 'Finally' are used effectively to guide the reader through the stages of the diagram. Paragraphing is logical and appropriate, ensuring a smooth and coherent progression throughout.

Lexical Resource: Band 7.0

The student demonstrates a sufficient and appropriate range of vocabulary suitable for describing a technical process. Terms such as 'utilize', 'geothermal zone', 'injection well', 'production well', 'condenser', and 'generator' are used accurately. Less common lexical items and collocations are integrated successfully (e.g., 'relies heavily on', 'forced upwards', 'transformed into steam'). Word choice and spelling are generally precise, with only minor areas for further lexical enhancement.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 7.5

The response exhibits a good variety of complex sentence structures, such as participial phrases and subordinate clauses (e.g., 'beginning with pumping cold water underground', 'where the water is heated by hot rocks', 'Once the hot water reaches the surface, it is directed into a condenser'). The majority of sentences are error-free, and control of grammar and punctuation is strong. Minor punctuation omissions, such as a missing final full stop in the first paragraph, are present but do not impede communication.

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