The diagram below shows how a biofuel called ethanol is produced.

Same questionCompare 4 different answers (Band 7–9)

Sample Response

1

The flow chart illustrates the sustainable production and utilisation of ethanol, a type of biofuel. Overall, the process consists of a multi-stage cyclical processnine sequential phases, beginning with the cultivation of vegetation and culminating in the release and reabsorption of carbon dioxide. This cycle can be grouped into three principal stages: raw material preparation, mechanical and chemical processingphysical breakdown and chemical treatment, followed by the manufacture, consumption and recycling loop of ethanol.

2

To start with, plants and trees are grown, with sunlight and carbon dioxide supporting their growth. Once mature, this biomass is harvested by specialised machinery such as a tractortractors and trucks, before undergoing pre-processing to produce cellulose. The cellulose is then subjected to chemical treatment to extract sugars, which are combined with microbes to create ethanol via fermentation.

3

In the final phase, ethanol acts as fuel to power a range of transport, includinga range of transport including private vehicles, lorries and aircraft. When ethanol is combusted, carbon dioxide is emitted into the atmosphere. This gas is subsequently reabsorbed by plants and trees, completing the cycle.this sustainable cycle.

Overall assessment

Why this response received Band 8.0

The essay presents an exceptionally clear, fully developed summary of the ethanol production cycle with accurate sequencing and precise vocabulary. The overall structure and logical progression are outstanding throughout the response. To make further improvements, refine minor phrasing to maintain absolute accuracy when describing visual details.

Band score breakdown

IELTS Writing Criteria Scores

TA

Task Achievement

8.0
Scoring rule

All key stages of the process, from plant growth to the emission and reabsorption of carbon dioxide, are clearly described and supported by a well-developed overview.

Next step

Ensure all minor visual labels are captured precisely without adding unstated details like specific vehicle types not explicitly named.

CC

Coherence and Cohesion

8.0
Scoring rule

Information is logically organized into coherent paragraphs, featuring smooth cohesive devices and natural transitions throughout the process.

Next step

Maintain the current logical structure while varying sequencing expressions slightly to prevent repetition of standard transition words.

LR

Lexical Resource

8.0
Scoring rule

A wide range of sophisticated vocabulary tailored to process descriptions is used accurately and flexibly.

Next step

Continue practicing precise topic-specific terminology to ensure subtle word choices match diagram labels exactly.

GRA

Grammatical Range and Accuracy

8.0
Scoring rule

A broad variety of complex sentence structures is used with consistently high accuracy and natural grammatical control.

Next step

Maintain complete control over passive voice constructions when detailing multi-step mechanical and chemical processes.

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IELTS Academic Writing Task 1

The diagram below shows how a biofuel called ethanol is produced.

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