Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 19 · 2026-08-18

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 7.5)

The diagram illustrates the process by which ethanol is produced from plant material and subsequently used as a fuel.

Overall, it is a cyclical process in which plant material is progressively converted into ethanol for use as a fuel, while the carbon dioxide released during combustion is recycled to support further plant growth.

Initially, plants and trees grow using energy from sunlight and carbon dioxide. Once they have matured, they are harvested and undergo pre-processing, after which cellulose is obtained. The cellulose then undergoes further processing, resulting in the production of sugars.

In the subsequent stage, microbes are added to the sugars, resulting in the production of ethanol. The resulting biofuel is then used as a fuel for various forms of transport, including cars, trucks and aircraft. During this stage, the combustion of ethanol releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. This gas is subsequently absorbed by growing plants, together with energy from sunlight, allowing the cycle to continue.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The response effectively summarizes the process of ethanol production. You have successfully identified the main stages, from the growth of plants to the final combustion and recycling of carbon dioxide. The overview is clear and captures the cyclical nature of the process, which is a key feature of the diagram. All parts of the prompt are addressed, and the information is presented in a logical, sequential manner. To reach a higher band, you could focus on highlighting the specific inputs and outputs at each stage more explicitly, such as mentioning the conversion of cellulose into sugars as a distinct chemical transformation.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.0

The response is well-organized with a clear logical progression. You have used paragraphing effectively to separate the introduction, the overview, and the distinct stages of the process. Cohesive devices such as 'Initially', 'Once', 'In the subsequent stage', and 'This gas is subsequently' are used appropriately to guide the reader through the cycle. The flow of information is smooth, and the relationship between the different stages is clearly established. There is no evidence of mechanical or repetitive use of linking words, and the structure supports the overall clarity of the explanation.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.0

You have used a sufficient range of vocabulary to describe the process accurately. Terms such as 'cyclical', 'matured', 'combustion', and 'subsequently' demonstrate a good command of language appropriate for an academic report. The vocabulary is precise and fits the context of a technical process well. While the range is adequate and accurate, incorporating a few more sophisticated collocations or technical synonyms could elevate the response further. Overall, the lexical control is strong, and there are no errors that impede communication.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The response displays a good variety of complex sentence structures, such as the use of passive voice ('is produced', 'are harvested', 'are added') which is highly appropriate for describing a process. The grammar is accurate throughout, with no significant errors in punctuation or syntax. The majority of sentences are error-free, and the control over complex structures is consistent. The writing is fluent and demonstrates a high level of grammatical competence, which is well-suited for this type of task.

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

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