Band 5.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 5.5 · Cambridge IELTS 19 · 2026-08-21
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 5.5)
The following diagram illustrate that how a biofuel called ethanol is produced,
the diagram clearly shows the whole process of how ethanol is made and then used for different purposes.
In the diagram we can clearly see that firstly sunlight and carbon dioxide have contact with green plants and trees which is important for plants and trees to grow after that Harvesting occurs and then Pre processing get started which convert these to Cellulose and then processing method is started which convert these cellulose into sugars and then with the help of Microbes this is then converted into ethanol when microbes are added into sugars it goes through some reactions which results in ethanol production.
When ethanol is made then it used in different vehicles like cars, air plans etc. Moreover, the ethanol is used in vehicles and then converted into carbon dioxide which is then again go to the atmosphere and again the Biofuel production process occurs which lead toward the production of ethanol gas.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 5.5 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 5.5 |
| Lexical Resource | 5.5 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 5.0 |
| Overall | 5.5 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.5
The response covers the main stages of the ethanol production process, from the growth of plants to the final usage in vehicles. However, the description is somewhat simplistic and lacks a clear overview or summary of the key features. While the process is outlined, the connection between the stages could be more analytical. For instance, the transition from 'harvesting' to 'pre-processing' is mentioned, but the technical nature of the process is under-developed. To improve, ensure you provide a clear summary statement in the introduction and focus on grouping the stages more logically to highlight the cyclical nature of the process.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 5.5
The essay is organised into three paragraphs, which is a reasonable structure. However, the use of cohesive devices is repetitive and mechanical. Phrases like 'and then' are used excessively, which hinders the flow of the text. The referencing is sometimes unclear, such as in the phrase 'with the help of Microbes this is then converted', where 'this' lacks a precise antecedent. To improve, vary your linking words and ensure that pronouns clearly refer back to the intended noun. Using more sophisticated transitions like 'subsequently', 'following this', or 'consequently' would enhance the logical progression.
Lexical Resource — Band 5.5
The vocabulary is generally adequate for the task but lacks the precision required for a higher band. There are some inaccuracies, such as 'air plans' instead of 'airplanes' and 'ethanol gas' (ethanol is typically a liquid fuel). The range is limited, relying on basic verbs like 'made', 'get started', and 'converted'. To achieve a higher score, incorporate more topic-specific vocabulary related to industrial processes, such as 'fermentation', 'break down', 'raw materials', or 'by-product'. Avoid informal phrasing and ensure accurate spelling of technical terms.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.0
The response contains a mix of simple and complex sentence structures, but there are frequent grammatical errors. Subject-verb agreement issues are present, such as 'The following diagram illustrate' (should be 'illustrates') and 'the ethanol is used... and then converted... which is then again go' (should be 'goes'). Punctuation is also weak, with several run-on sentences that lack proper commas or full stops. To improve, focus on subject-verb agreement and the correct use of relative clauses. Proofreading for basic errors in tense and pluralisation will significantly improve the clarity of your writing.
See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.
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