Band 7.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.0 · Cambridge IELTS 14 · 2026-08-27

IELTS Writing Task 1 question

The diagram below shows how electricity is generated in a hydroelectric power station.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

Student answer (Band 7.0)

The diagram illustrates the production of electricity by means of water in a hydroelectric power station.

Overall, water from the river serves as the primary source for the production of electricity. A dam is used as a controller to stop and regulate water according to demand. The power station is located at the bottom of the whole setup.

The process begins with water flowing, then stored in a reservoir and dam next to it for the flow and storage of water according to demand for electricity. Additionally, there is an intake at the bottom of the dam, which acts as a passage for the flow of water during the day to generate electricity. At the opposite end of the intake, there is a turbine connected to the generator of the power station.

Finally, within the power station, the reversible turbines perform dual tasks—at night pumping water from a low reservoir to a high-level reservoir and during the day generating electricity. Power lines connected with the generator are used to transmit electricity to the national grid.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.5

The response covers the main features of the hydroelectric power station process well. You have successfully identified the key components, such as the dam, reservoir, turbine, and generator, and explained their functions. The overview is clear, and the comparison between day and night operations is a strong point. To reach a higher band, ensure that the description of the flow is more precise; for example, the phrase 'water flowing, then stored' is a bit vague. Overall, you have addressed all parts of the task effectively, providing a clear summary of the process.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.0

The essay is logically organized, with a clear introduction, overview, and body paragraphs that follow the process chronologically. You use cohesive devices such as 'Additionally,' 'At the opposite end,' and 'Finally' to guide the reader through the steps. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate the overview from the detailed process. The progression of ideas is smooth, and the referencing is clear throughout the text. The structure is sound and supports the overall clarity of the report.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

You have used a sufficient range of vocabulary to describe the process, including technical terms like 'hydroelectric power station,' 'national grid,' and 'reversible turbines.' The word choice is generally accurate and appropriate for an academic report. There are no significant spelling errors, and the vocabulary is varied enough to convey the information clearly. To improve, try to incorporate more sophisticated collocations or precise verbs to describe the mechanical actions, such as 'harnessing' or 'converting' energy, rather than relying on simpler verbs like 'used' or 'connected.'

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.0

The response demonstrates a good mix of simple and complex sentence structures. Most sentences are error-free, and the grammar is generally accurate, which ensures that the meaning is always clear. You have used passive voice appropriately for a process description, such as 'water is stored' and 'turbines perform dual tasks.' There are no major grammatical errors that impede communication. To achieve a higher score, you could experiment with more varied complex sentence structures, such as using participle clauses to describe the process more fluidly.

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

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