Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 16 · 2026-08-25

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 7.5)

The diagram illustrates the nine-stage process used to recycle plastic bottles, beginning with their collection and ending with the production of new goods.

Overall, the process involves three broad phases: collecting and sorting discharged bottles, processing them into reusable plastic, and manufacturing new products. The material undergoes several treatments before becoming suitable for reuse.

Initially, consumers place used bottles in recycling bins, from which they are collected by a truck and transported to a recycling centre. There, the bottles are sorted, with recyclable items seperated from unsuitable waste. The selected bottles are then compressed into large blocks, crushed into small pieces and throughly washed. Following this, the clean fragments are processed into plastic pellets.

In the final stages, these pellets are heated and melted to create raw plastic material, which is subsequently prepared for manufacturing. The recycled material can then be used to produce various items, including new bottles, food Containers, clothing, pencils and shopping bags. Thus, discarded bottles are transformed into useful products through a systematic recycling process.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The response effectively covers all stages of the recycling process, from the initial collection to the final manufacturing of new goods. You have successfully identified the main features and provided a logical summary of the diagram. The overview is clear and highlights the three main phases, which helps the reader understand the overall progression. The information is well-selected and accurately reflects the provided visual data. No key steps were omitted, and the response is well-balanced throughout.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The essay is logically organized with a clear introduction, a well-structured body, and a concise conclusion. Paragraphing is used effectively to separate the different stages of the process. Cohesive devices such as 'Initially', 'Following this', and 'In the final stages' are used appropriately to guide the reader through the sequence of events. The progression of ideas is smooth and easy to follow, demonstrating a good command of organizational structure.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.0

You have used a sufficient range of vocabulary to describe the process accurately, including terms like 'discharged', 'compressed', 'fragments', and 'subsequently'. The language is natural and precise for the task. There are a couple of minor spelling errors, such as 'seperated' (should be 'separated') and 'throughly' (should be 'thoroughly'), but these are minor slips that do not impede communication. The vocabulary is well-suited to the academic nature of the task.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The response demonstrates a good variety of sentence structures, including complex sentences that effectively link the stages of the process. The grammar is generally accurate, with very few errors. Punctuation is used correctly throughout the text. The majority of sentences are error-free, and the control over tense and voice (passive voice is used appropriately for a process description) is strong. The writing is clear and professional.

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

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