Band 6.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.0 · Cambridge IELTS 19 · 2026-08-31

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 given diagram represents how ethanol, a biofuel is produced. The main stages include harvesting, pre-processing cellulose extraction, processing and the addition of microbes.

The first and the main factor which is necessary is Energy, which is acquired by sunlight and carbon dioxide. They are used to grow plants and trees. Once they are matured, they are harvested. After harvesting and before processing, pre-processing is done which removes unnecessary materials from the crops and it is converted into cellulose. In the next step, cellulose is moved for further testing and broken down into sugars. Sugar is extracted from it and other microbes are added. The obtained chemical is called Ethanol. It is used in cars, heavy trucks and aeroplanes as a fuel.

Finally, the carbon dioxide produced during fuel consumption is returned to the beginning of the cycle, where it is absorbed by growing plants and trees. In this way, the process continues and forms a closed cycle of ethanol production and carbon dioxide recycling.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.0

You have successfully identified the main stages of the ethanol production process and provided a clear overview of the cycle. You covered the key steps from raw material growth to fuel consumption and recycling. However, the report could be improved by providing more precise detail on the transition between stages. For example, you mention 'further testing' and 'broken down into sugars' without clearly linking these to the specific visual cues in the diagram. To reach a higher band, ensure that all key features are described with greater technical accuracy and that the relationship between the stages is more explicitly highlighted to show a deeper understanding of the process flow.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5

The response is logically organized, moving chronologically through the production cycle. You use paragraphing effectively to separate the initial stages from the final recycling phase. Cohesive devices such as 'The first and the main factor', 'Once they are matured', and 'In this way' help guide the reader through the process. However, some transitions are slightly mechanical, and the flow between sentences could be smoother. To improve, try to vary your linking phrases and ensure that referencing (e.g., 'it' or 'they') is always unambiguous, as there are moments where the antecedent of a pronoun is slightly unclear.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.0

You demonstrate an adequate range of vocabulary for the task, using terms like 'biofuel', 'cellulose', 'microbes', and 'recycling' appropriately. While the vocabulary is sufficient to convey the meaning, it is somewhat basic and relies on general terms. To achieve a higher band, incorporate more precise academic vocabulary related to industrial processes, such as 'fermentation', 'conversion', or 'by-product'. There are no significant spelling errors, and your word choice is generally accurate, though it lacks the sophistication and variety required for the higher bands.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.0

You use a mix of simple and complex sentence structures, which is appropriate for this task. Most of your sentences are clear and easy to follow. There are some minor grammatical slips, such as 'The first and the main factor which is necessary is Energy', which is slightly wordy and could be more concise. Additionally, ensure consistent use of articles and pluralization. While your grammar is generally accurate and does not impede communication, you should aim to incorporate a wider variety of complex structures, such as passive voice constructions, which are particularly useful when describing scientific or industrial processes.

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

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