Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 12 · 2026-09-29

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 7.5)

The diagram illustrates how geothermal energy is used to produce electricity.

Overall, there are five main stages in the process. Cold water is pumped underground, where it is heated by hot rocks. The hot water is then brought back to the surface and converted into steam, which powers a turbine and generates electricity.

First, cold water is stored in a tank and pumped 4.5 km underground through the injection well. It then passes through the geothermal zone, where hot rocks heat the water. Next, the hot water is pumped upwards through the production well.

After reaching the surface, the hot water enters a condenser, where it is changed into steam. The steam then moves towards a turbine and causes its blades to rotate. The turbine powers a generator, which produces electricity. Finally, the electricity is transferred to the power network through electricity lines.

Thus, geothermal power is produced by using heat from underground rocks to turn water into steam and generate electricity.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response: Band 7.5

The student provides a clear and well-structured overview of the process diagram, successfully identifying all main stages from pumping cold water underground to generating electricity. Key features such as the depth of 4.5 km, the geothermal zone, the production well, and the turbine/generator mechanism are accurately reported. The overview summarises the process succinctly in the introduction, and details are logically reported throughout the body paragraphs without any irrelevant information or invented data. All parts of the prompt are fully and accurately addressed.

Coherence and Cohesion: Band 7.5

The response exhibits a clear and logical overall progression. Information is grouped logically into paragraphs, starting with an introductory summary followed by two well-paced body paragraphs detailing the stages and concluding with a brief summary statement. Cohesive devices such as 'First', 'It then passes through', 'Next', and 'After reaching the surface' are used effectively to guide the reader through the linear process. Paragraphing is used appropriately and referencing is clear throughout.

Lexical Resource: Band 6.5

The student demonstrates a sufficient and appropriate range of vocabulary for this task type, incorporating process-specific terminology such as 'geothermal energy', 'injection well', 'geothermal zone', 'condenser', and 'generator'. Word choice is generally precise and natural (e.g., 'converted into steam', 'rotate'). There are no noticeable spelling errors or inappropriate collocations that impede communication, reflecting a solid control of lexical resource.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 7.5

The response displays a good variety of sentence structures, mixing simple and complex forms effectively (e.g., 'Cold water is pumped underground, where it is heated by hot rocks' and 'where it is changed into steam'). The majority of sentences are error-free, and control over grammar and punctuation is strong throughout. Minor slips are absent, and verb tenses are used consistently and accurately to describe a general process.

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

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