Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 19 · 2026-09-07

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 the ethanol is produced from plant material and subsequently use as a energy source.

Overall ethanol production is a cyclical process commencing with the plant and tress and the use of ethanol as a fuel.The main stages involve harvesting, pre-processing, the extraction and processing of cellulose, the production of sugars, and the addition of microbes. Notably, carbon dioxide released during the process is subsequently absorbed by growing plants.

Initially, plants and trees grow by using energy from sunlight and absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Once sufficiently grown, they are harvested and the collected plant material undergoes pre-processing. This produces cellulose, which is then transferred to a processing facility. During processing, the cellulose is converted into sugars.

In the next stage, microbes are added to these sugars, resulting in the production of ethanol. The finished biofuel can then be used to power various forms of transport, including cars, trucks and aircraft. Carbon dioxide is released when ethanol is used as a fuel, as well as during some earlier stages of production. This gas is then absorbed by plants as they grow, thereby completing the cycle.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The response effectively covers all stages of the ethanol production process as depicted in the diagram. You have successfully identified the main features, including the cyclical nature of the process and the specific stages from harvesting to fuel consumption. The overview is clear and provides a good summary of the entire cycle. The information is well-selected, and you have made relevant comparisons by noting the role of carbon dioxide absorption and release. The response is accurate and fully addresses the requirements of the prompt without any significant omissions.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The essay is logically organized, with a clear introduction, a concise overview, and two body paragraphs that follow the chronological flow of the process. Cohesive devices such as 'initially', 'in the next stage', and 'thereby' are used effectively to guide the reader through the stages. Paragraphing is appropriate, and the progression of ideas is smooth. The referencing is clear, and the relationship between the different stages of the cycle is well-managed throughout the text.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.0

You demonstrate a good range of vocabulary appropriate for a process description, such as 'cyclical', 'commencing', 'extraction', and 'absorbed'. The language is precise and fits the context well. There are no significant errors in word choice or collocation. While the vocabulary is functional and accurate, incorporating a few more sophisticated or technical terms related to biofuel production could elevate the response further, but the current range is sufficient for a high band score.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.0

The response uses a variety of complex structures, such as passive voice constructions ('is produced', 'are harvested', 'is then transferred') which are essential for describing a process. The majority of sentences are error-free, and the control over grammar and punctuation is strong. There are minor slips, such as 'the ethanol is produced' (the article 'the' is unnecessary here) and 'use as a energy source' (should be 'used as an energy source'). However, these are rare and do not impede communication.

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

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