Band 6.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.0 · Cambridge IELTS 16 · 2026-09-04

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 6.0)

The diagram illustrates the process for recycling bottles made of plastic.

Overall, the cyclic process consists of several steps, beginning with the collection of plastic bottles and finally converting them into useful products like shirts, plastic bags, pencils and recycled water bottles.

Initially water bottles are collected from trash bins and are transported to the recycling centre with the help of a garbage truck. At the recycling centre, these bottles are compressed into large blocks. After that these blocks are crushed into small pieces by a machine.

Next, the small pieces that are crushed by the machine are placed in a container with water in it for the purpose of cleaning them. These small pieces are then used by another machine which converts them into sand-like particles which is used to make raw material. Finally, the material is used to make different products like shirts, plastic bags, pencils and plastic water bottles.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.0

The response successfully identifies the main stages of the recycling process, from collection to the final production of goods. You have provided a clear overview and followed the sequence of the diagram logically. To reach a higher band, ensure that you include more specific details from the diagram, such as the mention of 'heat' or the specific 'pellets' stage, which would demonstrate a more thorough coverage of the provided information. The current summary is accurate but could be slightly more analytical by highlighting the transformation of the material more explicitly.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5

The essay is logically organized, with a clear introduction, overview, and body paragraphs that follow the chronological order of the process. You have used cohesive devices such as 'Initially', 'After that', 'Next', and 'Finally' to guide the reader through the stages. However, some of the transitions feel slightly mechanical. To improve, try to vary your linking phrases and ensure that the connection between sentences is smoother, rather than relying on a simple list-like structure for each step.

Lexical Resource — Band 5.5

You have used a sufficient range of vocabulary to describe the process, such as 'compressed', 'transported', and 'recycling centre'. The language is generally appropriate for a process description. To improve, avoid repeating basic words like 'small pieces' or 'machine'. Using more precise terminology, such as 'shredded', 'granules', or 'industrial equipment', would demonstrate a more sophisticated lexical range and help you achieve a higher band score.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.0

The grammar is generally accurate, and your sentences are easy to follow. You have successfully used passive voice constructions, which are essential for process descriptions (e.g., 'bottles are collected', 'are compressed'). There are some minor issues with punctuation and relative clauses, such as 'particles which is used', where the verb should agree with the plural 'particles'. Increasing the use of more complex sentence structures, such as combining steps with participial phrases, would enhance your grammatical range.

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

Browse more IELTS Writing model answers or get your own writing scored by the same AI examiner.