Band 7.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.0 · Cambridge IELTS 16 · 2026-08-18

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 7.0)

The diagram illustrates the process of recycling plastic bottles.

Overall, it is clear that there are nine main stages in the process, beginning with plastic bottles being placed in recycling bins and ending with the production of various new products.

Initially, used plastic bottles are thrown into recycling bins. They are then collected by a large truck and transported to a recycling centre. At the centre, the bottles are sorted into two groups before being compressed into large blocks. These blocks are subsequently transferred to a machine, where they are crushed into small pieces.

Next, the small pieces are washed with water to remove any dirt. After being cleaned, they are processed in a machine and converted into plastic pellets. These pellets are then heated to produce raw material. Finally, the raw material is used to manufacture a range of new products, including clothes, pencils, lunch boxes and new plastic bottles.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.0

The response successfully covers all stages of the recycling process, from the initial collection to the final product manufacturing. You have clearly identified the main features and provided a logical summary of the diagram. The overview is effective, highlighting the nine stages and the transformation from waste to new products. To reach a higher band, you could incorporate more comparative language or highlight specific technical details, such as the temperature or the specific nature of the 'raw material' mentioned in the diagram, to demonstrate a more analytical approach to the data provided.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The response is well-organized with a clear progression of ideas. You have used a variety of cohesive devices effectively, such as 'Initially', 'subsequently', 'Next', and 'Finally', which help guide the reader through the process. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate the introduction and overview from the detailed process description. The flow is logical and easy to follow, and the referencing is clear throughout the text. The structure is consistent and supports the overall clarity of the report.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

You have used a sufficient range of vocabulary to describe the process accurately, such as 'compressed', 'transported', 'manufacture', and 'converted'. The word choice is generally precise and appropriate for a process description. While the vocabulary is functional and accurate, it is somewhat standard. To achieve a higher band, you could incorporate more sophisticated or technical collocations related to industrial processes, such as 'raw material processing' or 'reclamation cycle', to demonstrate a wider and more flexible range of lexical items.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The response demonstrates a good command of grammatical structures. You have used a mix of simple and complex sentences effectively, such as the passive voice construction 'are washed with water' and 'are processed in a machine', which is highly appropriate for describing a process. The sentences are generally error-free, and the punctuation is accurate. The control over complex structures is consistent, and there are no significant errors that impede communication. The writing is clear and professional throughout.

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

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