Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.5 · Cambridge IELTS 19 · 2026-08-07

IELTS Writing Task 1 question

 

The diagram below shows how a biofuel called ethanol is produced.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

Student answer (Band 6.5)

The diagram given below illustrates the process of producing ethanol, a biofuel, from plants and trees.

Overall, the process consists of several stages, beginning with the growth of harvesting of plants and ending with the production and use of ethanol. Importantly, carbon dioxide released during the process is absorbed by plants, creating a cycle.

First, plants and trees grown by using sunlight and carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. When they are fully grown, they are harvested and taken for pre-processing. At this stage, plants are prepared and cellulose is obtained. The cellulose is then sent to a processing plant, where it is converted into sugars. Microbes are added to the sugars which results in the production of ethanol.

Finally, ethanol is used as a fuel for different forms of transport, including cars, trucks and aero planes. These vehicles release carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. The carbon dioxide is then absorbed by growing plants, which allows the cycle to continue.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.5

The response successfully identifies the main features of the ethanol production process. You have clearly outlined the stages from plant growth to fuel usage and the cyclical nature of carbon dioxide. The overview is concise and effectively captures the essence of the diagram. To reach a higher band, ensure that you explicitly highlight the most significant comparisons or key stages in the process more prominently. While the summary is accurate, adding a bit more detail regarding the specific inputs or outputs at each stage would demonstrate a more thorough development of the task requirements.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The response is logically organized, with a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and a concluding summary of the cycle. The use of transition signals such as 'First', 'At this stage', and 'Finally' helps guide the reader through the process effectively. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate the stages of production from the cycle of usage. The flow of information is smooth, and the relationship between the stages is clearly established. The text is easy to follow, and the progression of ideas is consistent throughout the report.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.0

You have used a sufficient range of vocabulary to describe the process, such as 'cellulose', 'microbes', and 'atmosphere'. The terminology is accurate and appropriate for a technical description. However, the range is somewhat limited; incorporating more precise verbs or descriptive phrases would enhance the quality of the writing. For instance, instead of 'grown by using', you could use 'cultivated through the absorption of'. The vocabulary is functional and allows for clear communication, but it lacks the sophistication required for the highest bands.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.0

The response demonstrates a good control of grammar with a mix of simple and complex sentence structures. There is a minor error in the first paragraph: 'growth of harvesting of plants' is awkward and grammatically incorrect. Additionally, the sentence 'First, plants and trees grown by using sunlight...' is missing an auxiliary verb (should be 'are grown'). Despite these slips, the majority of your sentences are error-free, and the meaning is never obscured. The punctuation is generally accurate, and the sentence variety is sufficient for this type of task.

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

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