Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 19 · 2026-09-16

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 how ethanol fuel is produced from plant material and how carbon dioxide is recycled during the process.

Overall, ethanol production is a cyclical process consisting of several stages, beginning with plant growth and ending with the use of ethanol as a fuel. A notable feature is that the carbon dioxide released when ethanol is burned is subsequently absorbed by plants, completing the cycle.

Initially, plants and trees grow by using sunlight and carbon dioxide. When they are mature, they are harvested and undergo pre-processing, which converts the raw material into cellulose. The cellulose is then processed further to produce sugars.

Next, microbes are added to the sugars, resulting in fermentation and the production of ethanol. This biofuel can then be used to power cars, trucks and aircraft. When ethanol is burned, carbon dioxide is released into the atmosphere.

Finally, this carbon dioxide is absorbed by growing plants, allowing the process to begin again. Thus, ethanol production forms a closed cycle in which plant growth, fuel production and carbon dioxide emissions are interconnected.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The student covers all key features of the diagram successfully, providing a clear overview that highlights the cyclical nature of ethanol production and carbon dioxide recycling. The response traces all stages accurately, from plant growth and harvesting through pre-processing, cellulose creation, and processing into sugars, to the addition of microbes, production of ethanol, usage in vehicles, and subsequent release and reabsorption of carbon dioxide. The main features and comparisons are well-reported without including irrelevant details. The response satisfies all criteria for Task Achievement at a high level, demonstrating a fully developed overview and accurate reporting of the visual data.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.0

The text is logically organised with a clear introduction, body paragraphs detailing the sequential steps, and a concluding overview. Cohesive devices are used naturally and effectively to guide the reader through the cycle, as seen with transition words like 'Initially', 'Next', and 'Finally'. Paragraphing is logical, with each stage of the process appropriately grouped. Referencing is clear throughout, and the flow of information mirrors the cyclical nature of the diagram without repetition or awkward transitions. Overall, the essay demonstrates skilful organisation and coherence.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.5

The student demonstrates a wide and flexible range of vocabulary suited to describing a scientific process. Phrases such as 'cyclical process', 'converts the raw material', 'resulting in fermentation', and 'closed cycle' show precise control over less common lexical items. Word choice and collocations are natural throughout, with accurate handling of terms like 'cellulose', 'microbes', and 'atmosphere'. There are no noticeable spelling or word-choice errors, enabling the reader to comprehend the technical information smoothly and effortlessly.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The response features a wide range of complex structures, including relative clauses, participial phrases, and passive voice constructions (e.g., 'ethanol fuel is produced', 'When they are mature, they are harvested'). The majority of sentences are error-free, and punctuation is handled with high precision. Grammatical control is consistently strong across simple and complex forms alike, with no major slips or inaccuracies that impede communication. The control of tense and voice is particularly appropriate for a process description.

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