Band 6.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.0 · Cambridge IELTS 19 · 2026-08-25

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 6.0)

The diagram illustrates the manufacturing process of a biofuel called ethanol.

Overall, the process involves eight stages, beginning with the absorption of energy by trees and ending with the production of ethanol that is used by different modes of transportation. A complex stage involves processing cellulose in laboratories.

Initially, the process begins with the absorption of energy, which is a combination of sunlight and carbon dioxide. This energy causes the plants and trees to mature; next, these trees and plants are harvested by a farmer. In the next stage, the harvested crops are pre-processed by a mixer; they turn into finer particles. These tiny particles form a cellulose structure.

In the subsequent stage, the cellulose structure is processed in laboratories by scientists. Then, an organic structure of sugar is produced. Next, some microbes are added to the organic structure of sugar. Finally, by adding microbes, a biofuel called ethanol is produced. This ethanol can be supplied as a fuel to cars, trucks and airlines. In return, they release carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, and this process continues to produce ethanol.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.0

The response covers all stages of the process, from the initial absorption of energy to the final use of ethanol. The overview is clear and identifies the main features of the cycle. However, the description of the 'cellulose structure' and the 'organic structure of sugar' is slightly vague and could have been more precisely linked to the specific chemical or mechanical transformations shown in the diagram. While the main features are reported, the response would benefit from a more analytical approach to the cyclical nature of the process, particularly by highlighting the relationship between the carbon dioxide release and the initial absorption phase more explicitly.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5

The response is logically organized, with a clear introduction, overview, and sequential body paragraphs. Cohesive devices such as 'initially', 'next', 'in the subsequent stage', and 'finally' are used effectively to guide the reader through the process. Paragraphing is appropriate, separating the overview from the detailed steps. The progression of ideas is smooth, and the referencing is generally clear. To reach a higher band, the student could vary the cohesive devices further to avoid a slightly mechanical feel in the transition between steps.

Lexical Resource — Band 5.5

The vocabulary is adequate for the task, with terms like 'manufacturing process', 'absorption', 'harvested', and 'microbes' used correctly. There is an attempt to use specific terminology related to the diagram. However, the range is somewhat limited, and some phrasing is repetitive (e.g., 'organic structure of sugar' used twice). To improve, the student should incorporate more precise scientific or process-oriented vocabulary, such as 'fermentation' or 'breakdown', to describe the chemical changes more accurately rather than relying on general terms like 'processed'.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.0

The response demonstrates a mix of simple and complex sentence structures. Most sentences are grammatically accurate, and punctuation is used correctly. There are no major errors that impede communication. However, the range of complex structures is somewhat limited; the writing relies heavily on simple 'subject-verb-object' patterns or basic sequential connectors. To achieve a higher score, the student should aim to integrate more varied complex structures, such as passive voice constructions (e.g., 'the cellulose is broken down into...') or relative clauses, to enhance the sophistication of the writing.

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