Band 6.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.0 · Cambridge IELTS 19 · 2026-08-26

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 process for the biofuel (ethanol ) production.

Overall, they cyclic process takes place in seven steps.It starts from the growth of plants by absorbing carbon dioxide and ending with production of ethanol which is used in vehicles for transportation.

In the first step, plants absorb sunlight and carbon dioxide from atmosphere for the photosynthesis which is essential for their growth.As plants grow substantially, the process of harvesting initiates by using tractors.This is followed by the pre processing of plants which is done by using specific machine.

In the fifth stage , the cellulose is extracted from the the pre processed plants.This cellilose is then examined and further processed in laboratory.From laboratory, the sugars are extracted by performing different experiments.This is followed by the addition of microbes in sugars which result in production of ethanol.This ethanol which is also called biofuel, is then used in different vehicles such as cars, trucks and airplanes. Carbon dioxide is then released from these vehicles into atmosphere which is again absorbed by the plants.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.0

The response covers the main features of the diagram, identifying the cyclical nature of the process and the key stages from plant growth to ethanol usage. However, the description is somewhat mechanical and lacks a clear overview of the transformation process. While the stages are listed, the connection between the laboratory processing and the chemical conversion is slightly underdeveloped. The summary of the cycle is accurate, but the response would benefit from a more analytical approach to the 'main features' rather than a step-by-step narration of every single detail, which can sometimes obscure the broader picture.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.0

The essay is organized logically, following the chronological order of the diagram. Paragraphing is present, though the second paragraph is quite long and could have been split to improve readability. Cohesive devices such as 'In the first step', 'This is followed by', and 'From laboratory' are used to guide the reader. However, some transitions feel repetitive or mechanical. Referencing is generally clear, though the flow between the laboratory stage and the final usage could be smoother. Overall, the progression of ideas is easy to follow, meeting the requirements for a Band 6.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.0

The vocabulary is adequate for the task, with terms like 'photosynthesis', 'cellulose', and 'microbes' used correctly. However, there are some minor inaccuracies and awkward phrasing, such as 'they cyclic process' (should be 'the') and 'specific machine' (which is vague). The range is sufficient to convey the process, but there is limited use of less common or more precise academic vocabulary that would elevate the response to a higher band. Spelling errors, such as 'cellilose', also occur, though they do not impede communication.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.0

The response uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures. There are several grammatical errors, including missing articles ('from atmosphere', 'in laboratory'), punctuation issues (spacing before periods), and minor subject-verb agreement slips. While these errors are noticeable, they do not prevent the reader from understanding the process. The student demonstrates an ability to use complex sentences, but the control over these structures is inconsistent. Improving the accuracy of articles and prepositions would significantly enhance the quality of the writing.

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