Band 6.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.0 · Cambridge IELTS 19 · 2026-09-23

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 illustrates the different steps involved in the production of a biofuel called ethanol.

Overall, it is a cyclic process which explains the different natural and man made steps, involving various machines that are involved in the production of a biofuel that is used in different types of motor vehicles.

The process begins with plants and trees growing through the use of sunlight and carbon dioxide. After that these plants are harvested by use of a tractor and a harvestor machine. Then this harvested crop is chopped for pre-processing by a chopper to obtain cellulose.

This cellulose is transported to a factory, where it is processed to sugars. Different type of microbes are introduced into this sugar, which convert it into ethanol. This ethanol is used to fuel different cars and airplanes. The vehicles emit carbon dioxide, which is subsequently aborbed by plants and used in the process of photosynthesis.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response: Band 6.5

The student successfully covers all key features of the diagram, accurately outlining the cyclic process of ethanol production from plant growth and harvesting through pre-processing, cellulose extraction, processing into sugars, and conversion via microbes. The overview accurately identifies the process as cyclic, linking natural and industrial phases. The final stage involving vehicle emissions and carbon dioxide absorption is also correctly captured. The main features are fully reported without significant omissions or irrelevancies, satisfying the requirements for a Band 7.0 performance.

Coherence and Cohesion: Band 6.0

The response is organized in a logical sequence that mirrors the stages of the diagram, moving smoothly from introduction to the main body steps and conclusion. Paragraphing is used appropriately, dividing the overview from the process description. Cohesive devices such as 'The process begins with', 'After that', and 'Then' are utilized to guide the reader through the steps, although some transitions feel slightly repetitive or mechanical. Overall organization and progression are clear throughout.

Lexical Resource: Band 5.5

The student demonstrates an adequate range of vocabulary suitable for a process diagram, using terms such as 'cyclic process', 'harvested crop', 'pre-processing', 'cellulose', and 'photosynthesis'. There are occasional awkward word choices and minor spelling issues, such as 'harvestor' instead of 'harvester' and 'aborbed' instead of 'absorbed'. Less common vocabulary is attempted with reasonable success, though greater precision and lexical variety would elevate the score further.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 5.5

The writer employs a mix of simple and complex sentence structures, such as 'The process begins with plants and trees growing through the use of sunlight and carbon dioxide.' While there are several error-free sentences, minor punctuation and grammatical flaws appear, including missing commas and awkward phrasing in 'After that these plants are harvested by use of a tractor and a harvestor machine.' However, these errors do not impede communication and allow for a clear reading of the text.

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

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