Band 5.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 5.5 · Cambridge IELTS 16 · 2026-08-14
IELTS Writing Task 1 question
The diagram below shows the process for recycling plastic bottles.
Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.
How plastic bottles are recycled
Student answer (Band 5.5)
The diagram illustrates the process of transforming plastic bottles into different products, such as food box's, cutting board, water bottle, t-shirt etc.
Overall, the whole process involves distinct multi stages sequence, whereas the process begins with the collection of used bottles, and ending up with the final products.
In the initial stages a garbage truck takes the used bottles from a designated place to the recycling center. At this stage human labors are being used to sort out the right products. After completing this stage then it compressed into different blocks, send it to the crushing point. At this point a crushing machine is being used to crush the blocks into plastic pellets, then send it through a washing facility.
Subsequently, those plastic pellets transformed into plastic chips, and a heating machine is being used to produce the raw materials . Finally, at last stage raw materials are being used to produce the end goods.
Overall, the whole process involves manual labors and machines to produce the end products.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 5.5 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 5.5 |
| Lexical Resource | 5.0 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 5.0 |
| Overall | 5.5 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.5
The response covers the main stages of the recycling process, from collection to the production of end goods. However, the overview is somewhat repetitive and lacks a clear summary of the key features. While the process is described, the response misses some specific details from the diagram, such as the specific types of products mentioned (e.g., polyester fabric). The inclusion of 't-shirt etc.' is a bit informal. To improve, ensure the overview highlights the most significant trends or stages rather than just stating that the process involves machines and labor, which is expected in such a diagram.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 5.5
The essay is organized into paragraphs, which helps the reader follow the sequence of events. However, the use of cohesive devices is sometimes mechanical or slightly awkward, such as 'At this point,' 'Subsequently,' and 'Finally, at last stage.' The transition between sentences could be smoother. Additionally, the second paragraph contains a run-on sentence structure that affects the flow. Improving the variety of linking words and ensuring that each paragraph has a clear focus would enhance the logical progression of the response.
Lexical Resource — Band 5.0
The vocabulary is generally adequate for the task, allowing the reader to understand the process. However, there are several errors in word choice and form, such as 'food box's' (incorrect pluralization), 'human labors' (should be 'manual labor'), and 'cutting board' (should be plural to match the diagram). The range of vocabulary is somewhat limited and relies on basic descriptors. To reach a higher band, you should aim for more precise terminology related to industrial processes, such as 'shredded,' 'processed,' or 'manufactured,' and avoid informal phrasing like 'etc.'
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.0
The response uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures, but there are frequent grammatical errors. Examples include 'multi stages sequence' (should be 'multi-stage sequence'), 'it compressed' (missing subject 'they are'), and 'send it to' (should be 'sent to'). There are also issues with article usage and subject-verb agreement throughout the text. While these errors do not completely impede communication, they are frequent enough to distract the reader. Focusing on consistent verb tenses and correct sentence construction will significantly improve your score.
See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.
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