Band 8.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 8.0 · Cambridge IELTS 19 · 2026-09-09
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 8.0)
The provided diagram illustrates the cyclical process by which a renewable biofuel known as ethanol is manufactured and consumed.
Overall, the production of ethanol is a continuous loop that combines biological growth, industrial processing, and fuel consumption. The entire procedure can be divided into three main stages: the cultivation and harvesting of raw materials, the chemical transformation into ethanol, and its utilization as a transportation fuel which naturally replenishes the carbon cycle.
The cycle commences when plants and trees grow by utilizing solar energy and absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Once mature, these plants are harvested using mechanical equipment such as tractors. The gathered biomass then undergoes a pre-processing stage to extract cellulose.
In the subsequent industrial phase, the extracted cellulose is sent to a processing facility where it is broken down and chemically converted into sugars. Following this, specific microbes are introduced to ferment the sugars, ultimately yielding ethanol.
In the final stage, the finished biofuel is distributed to power various modes of transportation, including cars, trucks, and airplanes. The combustion of ethanol in these vehicles releases carbon dioxide back into the atmosphere. This emission completes the closed-loop cycle, as the carbon dioxide is once again absorbed by growing plants and trees through photosynthesis.
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AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 8.0 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 8.0 |
| Lexical Resource | 8.0 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 8.0 |
| Overall | 8.0 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 8.0
The response is excellent. You have successfully identified and described all the key stages of the ethanol production cycle, from the initial cultivation of biomass to the final combustion and carbon absorption. The overview is clear and effectively highlights the cyclical nature of the process. You have managed to report the main features accurately without unnecessary detail, which is exactly what is required for an Academic Task 1 response. The information is well-selected and logically presented, demonstrating a clear understanding of the diagram provided.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.0
The essay is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph focuses on a distinct stage of the process, which makes the information easy to follow. You have used a variety of cohesive devices effectively, such as 'In the subsequent industrial phase', 'Following this', and 'In the final stage', which help to guide the reader through the cycle. The paragraphing is appropriate, and the transition between the industrial processing and the environmental impact is seamless. The overall structure is coherent and professional.
Lexical Resource — Band 8.0
You have demonstrated a wide and precise range of vocabulary throughout the response. The use of subject-specific terminology such as 'biomass', 'cellulose', 'fermentation', and 'combustion' is accurate and appropriate for the context. Your word choice is sophisticated, and you avoid repetition by using varied synonyms. The language is natural and flows well, showing a high level of control over lexical items. There are no noticeable errors in word choice or collocation.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.0
The grammatical range is impressive, featuring a mix of complex and compound sentences that are error-free. You have used passive voice appropriately to describe the industrial process (e.g., 'is sent', 'are introduced') and maintained consistent verb tenses throughout. Punctuation is used correctly to enhance clarity. The majority of your sentences are complex and demonstrate a high level of accuracy, with no significant errors that would impede communication or distract the reader.
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