ielts diagram essay example

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IELTS Diagram Task 1 Sample

This IELTS diagram task 1 sample is about how a structure is used to generate power from waves. 

An IELTS diagram is often much the same as an IELTS process . You should see a series of stages in the diagram and these should be explained in order, starting at the beginning.

In this example, the structures can be explained as well. You should make sure you mention everything. For example, the cliff and sea wall are also included in the response. 

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The diagrams below show a structure that is used to generate electricity from wave power. 

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

Write at least 150 words.

Model Answer

The given illustrations present how electricity is generated using the power of the sea.

Overall, through a specially designed structure, a green source of electrical energy can be produced by the constant movement of the sea, which forces air through a chamber.

As seen in the first image, the man-made structure must be built next to a sea wall or cliff so that its foundation is strong enough to withstand the powerful waves. There is a specially constructed chamber, possibly built from a combination of metal and concrete, that allows seawater to flow in and out. The chamber leads into a column where a turbine is suspended. When a wave flows into the chamber, the water forcefully pushes the air out of the column. As the strong rush of air travels upwards, it pushes past the turbine, causing it to rotate quickly. It is this mechanical movement of the turbine that generates electricity.

As shown in the second picture, when the wave recedes, air refills the chamber, allowing the process to continue as the waves will keep entering and exiting the chamber, making the turbine spin continually. The result is a sustainable source of electrical energy.

(196 Words)

This is a good response as the IELTS diagram is introduced and an overview given of the main way the structure operates i.e. the movement of the sea and thus air creates the power.

Each of the diagrams is explained in a logical order so the process can be understood.

There is a good use of grammar and vocabulary . 

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• Academic practice
• General practice
• Task 1 Academic
• Task 1 General
• Task 2 (essay)

IELTS Writing task 1: describing a diagram

In this lesson you will learn how to describe a diagram in IELTS Writing task 1 .

We will deal with a process diagram . Although diagrams are not very common in IELTS, they do appear in Writing and are very different from other types of graphs you can get. So it's a good idea to learn how to structure your answer when describing a diagram.

• See IELTS Writing digram question
• Learn how to write a band 9 answer
• Learn useful vocabulary
• See video tutorial

As an example, let's take a look at the following question card:

The diagram illustrates how steel rods are manufactured in the furniture industry.

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

You can watch a video tutorial on how to describe diagrams in IELTS Academic Writing task 1:

• Introduction
• General overview
• Specific features

Now we'll take a look at each part of the answer.

1. Introduction

The first paragraph of your answer should be an introduction. For the introduction, you need to paraphrase the topic in your own words. It shouldn't be longer that 2 sentences.

And this is a possible way to write your introduction:

You could also write the introduction in another way:

In fact, there are plenty of ways to write your introduction. Just keep in mind that you should use synonyms and paraphrase the topic from your question card.

2. Overview

• how the process begins and ends
• the number of stages

If the diagram has loops or repeating stages, or your process is cyclic - write that in your overview too!

Here is a good way to write a general overview:

Overall, the process consists of eleven stages, beginning with the raw material and ending up with the product’s inspection.

Always use word overall to start your overview. This way you will indicate the examiner that you’re describing general trends.

3. Specific features

After you've given the overview, you should write about specific details of your diagram. To do that, you need to describe each stage of your process in detail . Don't forget that you should provide information in a logical way!

This is a possible way of describing the specific features of our diagram:

First of all, iron ore, yellow ore and carbon are collected to serve as a raw material for steel rods manufacturing. After that, the raw material is melted in a melting slit, where it is heated to a temperature in range of 1300-1500 °C. The melted mass is then transferred to a smelting cabin to undergo refinement. Next, the candescent metal is put in a pouring machine and poured into ingots.

In the next stage, the ingots are connected to a cooling reservoir, where the temperature falls to 60-100 °C. Metal goes through special nozzles and cools down, forming strands. Following this, the metal strands proceed to rollers that change their shape. Next, the products are put into a heating machine, where they undergo heat treatment. Subsequently, a measuring automaton completes a surface check of the products.

After that, the metal rods are sized by special cutters and get ID stamping. Finally, the products undergo inspection and are ready for use.

Using connectors

• first of all
• in the next stage
• following this
• subsequently

Using additional information

Your diagram will often provide you some additional information and hints for most stages of the process. Make sure that you use all that information while describing specific features of your diagram!

However, sometimes you may see that some stage lacks information for description . For example, we only know that the third stage of our process is called refinement and it happens in a smelting cabin . But we don't know what exactly happens during this stage.

In this case, you can use a verb to undergo . To undergo = to experience. For example, you can write: " the material undergoes refinement in a smelting cabin ".

And don't forget that you should NOT write a conclusion in Writing task 1 as you're not giving your opinion, you're describing the data.

Practice. Choose the correct options:

• The table shows the amount of students who study abroad in 2001 and 2011. The table shows the number of students who study abroad in 2001 and 2011.

Amount or number? Note that students are countable.

• The graph illustrate China's annual growth rate of exports of goods. The graph illustrates China's annual growth rate of exports of goods.

Look at the verb that follows the word graph . Hmm, the graph should be singular, so illustrates is the correct option.

• The line graph shows how many Finnish people went to the cinema between June and October 2014. The line graph shows how much Finnish people went to the cinema between June and October 2014.

You can say how much water or how much effort (these nouns are uncountable). But people are countable, so you should use how many in this case.

• The pie charts compare the world population of 1900 with 2000 . The pie charts compare the world population in 1900 and 2000 .

You should use phrase in + year , not of + year or at + year . Moreover, it seems like you compare population with year in the first sentence.

• The bar chart gives information about average household expenditure in Japan. The bar chart shows information about average household expenditure in Japan.

You can use either gives information about or shows , but not both at the same time.

IELTS writing task 1: The process of making milk and cheese

Writing task 1 ielts academic process diagram..

Updated: April 2024

Describing a process in  IELTS academic writing task 1 needs specific grammar, such as the passive and sequencers for showing how something is made or processed. In this lesson, I will look at how to use accurate vocabulary and grammar, the correct structure, and a model answer for a diagram showing how milk, cheese, and butter are made for commercial sale.

In this lesson we will look at:

1. Example of a process diagram task.

2. ielts academic writing task 1 structure., 3. grammar needed for a process diagram., 4. example task and model answer., example process diagram..

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The diagram below shows the production and processing of milk and dairy products for commercial sale.

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

Write at least 150 words.

IELTS academic writing task 1 always has the same structure. In writing about process diagrams we are mainly describing how something works or how something is made .

You will need to have an introduction which paraphrases the question, a short overview of the process (about 2 sentences) and 2 body paragraphs explaining in detail, but no conclusion is needed.

The grammar for this kind of task is the present simple passive, sequencers and sometimes the present perfect passive. For linking the steps you can use sequencers (first, next, subsequently, after that, finally)

Grammar for an IELTS process diagram.

This type of process needs the present simple passive and active to describe what happens in each step, also you will need sequencers such as ‘ Firstly, subsequently, next, following this, after that, then, finally etc.’ . to show this as a step by step process . Another grammar point to help link sentences is the present perfect passive . Take a look at the examples below.

Present Simple Passive.

object + to be + past participle:  This is used to describe a process where the person is not important, also the passive is used for the stages of production.

• The cows are milked by a milking machine twice a day.
• The milk is put into refrigeration storage.
• The milk is delivered by tanker to the dairy.
• Cream, cheese and butter are produced from the milk.
• The items are packed into boxes
• The tea leaves are picked.

Present Simple Active.

object+verb: The active is used to describe natural processes.

• Cows graze in the fields.
• Cows eat grass every day.
• The sun shines.
• Flowers grow.
• Tea grows in India.
• The moon rises in the evening.

Sequencers.

These are necessary when describing the stages in academic task 1 process diagrams for better cohesion and flow.

• First of all
• To begin with
• at this point
• following this
• after which
• the next step is
• subsequently
• the last step is…

Example sentences:

In the first four stages , cows graze in the fields. After that , the cows are put into a milking machine twice a day. Following this , the milk is put into refrigeration storage,  after which it is transferred to a tanker. Subsequently , it is pasteurised, processed and made into cheese The last step is the milk and dairy products are sent out to supermarkets.

Present Perfect Passive.

object + to be + past participle:  We can use once and when + present perfect passive to join two processes together.

Once the milk has been transferred to a tanker, it is then delivered to the dairy. When  the milk has been delivered  to the dairy, it is subsequently put through a pasteurisation process… As soon as the milk and dairy products have been processed and packaged , they are then sent out to supermarkets where they are then stacked onto shelves ready for purchase.

Paraphrasing hint: In the question, it says “The diagram below shows the production and …” this needs to be paraphrased by changing the word “shows” to “indicates” or “illustrates” . The word Diagram is not paraphrased because there is no way to paraphrase that word. It will always be a diagram.

Grouping the information.

In IELTS task 1 academic it is important to group the information logically as this improves overall coherence. In this case, the main body paragraph one is about the first four stages and main body two is about the last four stages. I included the stage where the cows graze as that is part of the whole process.

Model answer

Notice the paraphrased introduction with a short overview starting with the word ‘overall’ and the use of the passive with sequencers.

The diagram illustrates the way milk is produced and processed into cheese, cream and butter and packaged for sale to consumers. Overall, there are eight stages in the process, starting with cows grazing on the grass, to the milk processed at the dairy and the sale of dairy products in supermarkets and shops.

In the first four stages, cows graze in the fields, after which they are taken to a milking machine to be milked twice a day. Following this, the milk is put into refrigeration storage. In the next step, the milk is put into a tanker where it is then ready to be delivered to the dairy on a daily basis.

In the last four stages, once the milk is delivered to the dairy, it is put through a pasteurisation process. It is also turned into various dairy products such as cheese, cream and butter. Finally, as soon as the milk and dairy products have been processed and packaged, they are then sent out to supermarkets and shops where they are displayed and ready for purchase by consumers.

Any comments? leave them below.

9 thoughts on “ielts writing task 1: the process of making milk and cheese”.

The pictures give detailed information about the process by which milk and dairy products are manufactured to sell. Overall, it is clear that there are a total of 8 steps which can be organized into three main stages in the production, namely the feeding cows, tasks in the factory with special machines, and the delivery process to customers. It is worth mentioning that advanced technologies such as refrigerators and others are utilized in the process of production. Looking at the details, the process begins when the cows start grazing. After that, milk is taken by a special machine from the cows twice a day. Gotten milk is refrigerated in the storage before daily delivery by tanker to the factory of dairy. After being delivered, dairy products are prepared, to be more precise cheese, cream, and butter. Following this, prepared products are pasteurized and packaged. Finally, the end products are delivered to customers.

can you check it?

It’s a good attempt,but the overview is very long…for detailed corrections check out the writing correction service here: https://ieltsfocus.com/writing-correction-service/

How many paragraphs are required or recommended?

In a task 1 report you need an introduction and overview, then 2 body paragraphs, no conclusion… so thats 3 paragraphs total.

superb! Thanku

great information! Thanks

it is a well structured explanation of a process. You saved my life!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

IELTS Process Diagram - IELTS Writing Task 1 with the Best Strategies

Updated On Sep 17, 2024

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The article explains IELTS Writing Task 1 process diagrams, which require summarizing a process in 150 words. It offers strategies, including analyzing the diagram, writing a clear overview, using correct tense, and structuring the essay logically.

Table of Contents

What is the ielts process chart in task 1, ielts process diagram questions with sample answers, strategies for answering the ielts process diagram questions, quick tips to master the ielts process chart questions in few easy steps.

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In the Writing module of IELTS, there are two tasks that every candidate should attempt. While Task 2, which is essay writing, is the same for IELTS Academic and General Training, Task 1 is different.

Writing Task 1 for IELTS Academic is a report writing activity based on diagrams or graphs and test-takers should spend only 20 minutes out of the total duration of an hour to answer it. So, we will look at the process diagram or chart that is given in Task 1 and learn useful ways to tackle it.

In IELTS, a diagram is a graph or chart that shows how the individual components of a process are related to one another.

Questions based on process diagrams in IELTS Writing Task 1 are not as common as charts or graphs. However, to achieve a high IELTS band score , IELTS aspirants need to know how to solve these questions, as they do appear on occasion.

Even though it might sound daunting, they are easier to answer than the other Task 1 questions and do not take long to become acquainted with these questions. So, it is better to prepare for the IELTS Process Chart in Task 1 than take a significant risk.

Let us have a look at one such IELTS Writing Task 1 Process Chart below!

Example of a Process Chart Task 1

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The process diagram details the steps by which liquid chocolate is produced from cocoa beans.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant. Write at least 150 words.

As you can see here, there are ten steps shown in the above diagram, which the candidate has to understand and write in words.

In order to learn about the types of the IELTS Process diagrams, steps to frame your summary for IELTS Process chart and more, check IELTS Writing Task 1 Process Chart 2024 – Process Diagram with Sample Answers .

Before getting started with the tips and strategies to solve the Task 1 Process Chart for IELTS Writing, let us check out some Process Diagram Sample Answers for IELTS Academic Writing Task 1.

The diagram below shows the process by which bricks are manufactured for the building industry.

Check Out the Sample Answer!

The diagram below shows the water cycle, which is the continuous movement of water on, above, and below the surface of the Earth.

Ace the IELTS Exam by getting premium study material for IELTS Academic Writing Tasks !

The diagram below shows how leather goods are produced.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and making comparisons where relevant. Write at least 150 words.

The diagram below shows two different processes for manufacturing black tea.

The diagram gives information about the process of making pulp and paper.

Check Out the Sample Answer for IELTS flow chart!

There are a few strategies that have to be borne in mind while answering these IELTS Task 1 process diagram questions. They are listed below:

• Study and understand the question first. Go through the instructions and comprehend the task. For example, what type of IELTS Process Chart it is, how many steps are there, the materials used and produced in each step, the relation between each step, etc.
• Start with the first step and move to the next. You should begin at the beginning and describe each stage until you reach the end.
• Write a single sentence in the introduction by paraphrasing the question. However, keep in mind that an overview is essential as it contributes almost 25% of the score. This overview should have a brief explanation that you can write using the key stages of the process.
• Avoid transcribing diagrammatic information into words. As it is a time-consuming activity to transcribe, you must organize the data well for a better understanding. Observe the starting and follow every stage to get the correct information.
• Ensure that you are summarizing the information and presenting it accurately. The proficiency in extracting the information and presenting the same in words will be judged. To do so effectively, make sure you use the correct IELTS Writing Task 1 connectors .
• Including supporting information can increase your discussion’s intensity. Use relevant information as given in the diagram to support the body paragraphs. Don’t be too generic.
• The speech and tense used should influence the impression of readers. Try to use simple present and present perfect tenses. Be careful while using active and passive verbs.

Looking for more questions on IELTS Task 1 process chart in a PDF?

Download the IELTS Writing Task 1 Process Chart PDF now!

Some IELTS exam preparation tips for answering the process chart Task 1 questions and obtain a high band in the IELTS examination are given below:

• Analyze the diagram and the process thoroughly.
• Follow through the given information.
• Understand the key stages and concepts.
• Interpret the task in a better and clear way.
• Understand the kind of process you will have to write about.
• Structure the essay in a way that it matches with the stages and concepts.

Here are 5 additional examples of the IELTS Process Diagram

Also check:.

• Advanced Vocabulary word List for IELTS
• Advanced Grammar for IELTS: Common Adverb + Adjective Collocations
• Get a 7.0+ for IELTS Writing Task 1 by Using 6 Sentence Structures to Compare Numbers
• 6 Useful Tips to Improve IELTS Writing Skills
• Recent IELTS Writing Test (Task 1 & 2) with Band 8 Sample Answer
• IELTS Academic Writing Task 1: Useful Tips and Vocabulary to Describe a Graph or Chart

Frequently Asked Questions

How much time will I get to complete the Writing Task 1?

What will be assessed in the process diagram question?

How many words should I write to explain the process diagram?

What are the key components of the IELTS Process Diagram?

Is it necessary to provide a conclusion or opinion while answering the IELTS Writing Task 1 Process Diagram?

Practice IELTS Writing Task 1 based on report types

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How To Write an IELTS Process Diagram Essay

An IELTS process diagram question can contain a wide variety of different types of graphics. It could be a natural process such as the water cycle, a manufacturing process or a diagram of a system.

Using these 5 steps will help you to write a high-scoring process diagram essay:

1)  Analyse the question

2)  Identify the main features

3)  Write an introduction

4)  Write an overview

5)  Write the details paragraphs

In this lesson, we’re going to work through the 5 stages step-by-step as we answer a practice question.

Before we begin, here’s a model essay structure that you can use as a guideline for all IELTS Academic Task 1 questions.

Ideally, your essay should have 4 paragraphs:

Paragraph 1  – Introduction

Paragraph 2  – Overview

Paragraph 3  – 1 st  main feature

Paragraph 4  – 2 nd  main feature

We now have everything we need to begin planning and writing our IELTS process diagram essay.

Here’s our practice question:

The diagrams below show a structure that is used to generate electricity from wave power.

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

Write at least 150 words.

Generating Electricity From The Sea

Source: Official website IELTS Essentials

Step 1 –  Analyse the question

The format of every Academic Task 1 question is the same, with the instruction sentence (highlighted below) identical in every question. Here is our practice question again.

Every question consists of:

• Sentence 1 – A brief description of the graphic
• Sentence 2 – The instructions
• The graphic – diagram, chart, graph, table, etc.

Sentence 2 tells you what you have to do.

You must do 3 things:

1.     Select the main features.

2.     Write about the main features.

3.     Compare the main features.

All three tasks refer to the ‘ main features ’ of the graphic. You  do not  have to write about everything. Just pick out 2 or 3 key features and you’ll have plenty to write about.

Step 2 – Identify the Main Features

The graphic in IELTS process diagram questions should not be difficult to understand. There are not usually any numbers to analyse as in other types of question, just a diagram to interpret or, as in our practice question, two diagrams which each show part of the process.

All you are looking for are the main features. These should be the easiest things to spot. There will be lots of information in the graphic to help you identify them, especially, titles, labels and captions.

Here are some useful questions to ask?

1) Is it a linear or a cyclical process?

A linear process starts and finishes at different places. It will often involve the manufacture or creation of something, starting with the raw materials going in at one end and the finished product coming out the other end. An example of this can be seen in this diagram from a past IELTS process diagram question about the manufacture of bricks.

Linear process

A cyclical process, on the other hand, is a process that goes back to the beginning and repeats over and over again, such as the life cycle of a frog or a butterfly.

Cyclical process

2) Where does the process start and end?

For a linear process this will usually be obvious. It may be harder to determine for a cyclical process so it’s important that you examine the graphic carefully to find out.

3) How many steps are there to the process?

If there are a lot, it can be helpful to number them from 1 to whatever number the final stage is.

4) Can the process be easily broken down into stages?

In the brick-making graphic, for example, there are three stages:

a) Creating the bricks from clay

b) Manufacturing the finished product by drying and firing

c) Packaging and delivery

In the life cycle graphic above, there are also three distinct stages as the frog passes through different stages of development – egg, juvenile, adult.

5) What are the raw materials? What is produced at the end of the process?

These questions obviously apply only to manufacturing processes.

For other types of process, it might be more appropriate to ask the following question.

6) What is the end result of the process?

This question is relevant for our practice IELTS process diagram question which shows a process that creates something using a particular structure. The end result is the production of electricity.

So, what main features stand out in our practice graphic? Here it is again.

This graphic doesn’t contain very much detail. There are only two stages to the process:

Stage 1:  Electricity is generated as the wave flows into the structure (Diagram A).

Stage 2:  Electricity is also created as the receding wave draws air back down the column (Diagram B).

Other diagrams are more complex and you have to go through them stage by stage to work out what’s happening and then pick out just 2 or 3 main feature to write about.

The key features you select will be the starting point for your essay. You will then go on to add more detail later. However, with just 20 minutes allowed for Task 1, and a requirement of only 150 words, you won't be able to include many details.

We’re now ready to begin writing our essay. Here’s a reminder of the 4 part structure we’re going to use.

Step 3 – Write an Introduction 

In the introduction, you should simply paraphrase the question, that is, say the same thing in a different way. You can do this by using synonyms and changing the sentence structure. For example:

Introduction (Paragraph 1): 

The two diagrams illustrate a method of creating electricity from the force of waves using a specifically designed man-made construction.

This is all you need to do for the introduction.

Step 4 – Write an Overview (Paragraph 2)

In the second paragraph, you should give a general description of the diagram/s or process. The detail comes later in the essay.

State the information simply using synonyms where possible. No elaborate vocabulary or grammar structures are required, just the appropriate words and correct verb tenses.

For example:

Overview  (Paragraph 2): 

The structure, consisting of a wave chamber and a tall column containing a turbine, is erected on a steeply sloping coastal cliff or sea wall where it is subject to the movement of the ocean waves.

Step 5  – Write the 1st Detail Paragraph

Paragraphs 3 and 4 of your IELTS process diagram essay are where you include more detailed information. In paragraph 3, you should explain the first key feature in more detail.

For this question, we will expand on the first stage of the process. Here it is again:

Stage 1: Electricity is generated as the wave flows into the structure (Diagram A).

And this is an example of what you could write:

Paragraph 3 :

The first diagram shows how the incoming wave fills a large chamber and forces the air inside this space up the column and through the turbine. The pressure of the air rotates the turbine which generates a current of electricity. The process does not end there for the structure is able to continue producing power as the sea recedes as can be seen in the second diagram.

Step 6  – Write the 2nd Detail Paragraph

For the fourth and final paragraph, you do the same thing for your remaining key features or, for this question, the second stage of the process.

Here it is again:

Stage 2: Electricity is also created as the receding wave draws air back down the column (Diagram B).

Here’s an example of what you could write:

Paragraph 4 :

As the water now flows away from the structure, it draws air back down the column and downwards through the turbine in the same direction as the previous upward flow of air. The turbine continues to turn thus generating even more electricity. 

Here are the four paragraphs brought together to create our finished essay.

Finished IELTS Process Diagram Essay

This sample IELTS process diagram essay is just over the minimum word limit so you can see that you don’t have space to include very much detail at all. That’s why it is essential to select just a couple of main features to write about.

Now use what you’ve learnt in this lesson to practice answering other IELTS process diagram questions. Start slowly at first and keep practicing until you can plan and write a complete essay in around 20 minutes.

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Ielts academic writing task 1 – all lessons.

IELTS Academic Writing  –  A summary of the test including important facts, test format & assessment.

Academic Writing Task 1  – The format, the 7 question types & sample questions, assessment & marking criteria.  All the key information you need to know.

Understanding Task 1 Questions  – How to quickly and easily analyse and understand IELTS Writing Task 2 questions.

How To Plan a Task 1 Essay  –  Discover  3 reasons why you must plan, the 4 simple steps of essay planning and learn a simple 4 part essay structure.

Vocabulary for Task 1 Essays  –  Learn key vocabulary for a high-scoring essay. Word lists & a downloadable PDF.

Grammar for Task 1 Essays   – Essential grammar for Task 1 Academic essays including, verb tenses, key sentence structures, articles & prepositions.

The 7 Question Types:

Click the links below for a step-by-step lesson on each type of Task 1 question.

• Table Chart
• Process Diagram
• Multiple Graphs
• IELTS Writing
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IELTS Writing Task 1: Life Cycle Diagram

IELTS writing task 1 life cycle diagram model with two diagrams. This lesson focuses on the use of plural and singular nouns as well as using the correct verb form. You will also see how to write an introduction and overview for a diagram report.

IELTS Life Cycle Diagram with Two Diagrams

Source: Each diagram above was sourced from google and compiled to create this diagram for IELTS practice.

IELTS Diagram Model Answer & Practice

This gap fill gives the first two paragraphs of the above IELTS practice diagram.

Use the words listed to fill in the gaps. You may need to alter the form of the word to ensure the sentence is grammatically correct, for example singular or plural nouns or verb form. Not all words are used.

wing     fix     spot    remain     hatch      end     behind      stage      emerge      eggs       lay         structure        elytra      finish     curl      over      

The first diagram illustrates the (1)……………. in the life of a lady bird, while the second diagram shows its body (2)……………………………

Overall, there are four stages in the life cycle of a lady bird from (3)………………….. to adult insect. The lady bird’s anatomy is characterised by colourful (4)………………. of red with black dots that cover its abdomen.

Initially, eggs are (5)…………………. on the underside of a leaf and (6) …………………. there for between two to five days. After this, larvae (7)……………… from the eggs and continue in that form for 21 days. At the end of the three weeks, the pupa stage begins where the larvae pupate by (8)……………… into a pupa on the backside of a leaf and this lasts for 7 days. At the (9)…………… of this stage, an adult lady bird emerges and the life cycle starts again.

The second diagram shows that the lady bird has bright red elytra with black (10)…………….. that cover both the wings and the abdomen. It also has six legs in total, three on each side. On its head, it has eyes and antennae, while just (11)……………. the head there is the pronotum.

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hi liz, can you check it out

The diagram shows the different stage a lady bird goes through in its life, the 2nd diagram show the lady bird anatomy

Overall, a ladybird has to go through 4 different stages (egg, larval, pupa and adult) during her lifetime. Its start its cycle from being an egg and completes it until it reaches adulthood and the cycle goes on like this. The anatomy of a lady bird is similar to other arthropods.

The lady birds lays its eggs on a leaf and it stays as an egg for around 2 – 5 days. The next is to develop into a larva where it remains in this stage for exactly 21 days. Then its forms into a pupa by attaching it self underneath a leaf for 7 days. After which it emerges out as an adult lady bird.

The anatomy of lady bird consists of 8 major parts(head, antenna, eyes, pronotum, red elytra, abdomen, wings, and legs) . It has 6 legs 6 legs, a pair of wings , a beautiful bright red elytra with red dots above its abdomen. While behind its head there is a structure called pronotum.

My website isn’t aimed at providing feedback but I do have time today for a few much needed comments. Your writing is good but the issues relate specifically to IELTS writing skills and fulfilling the requirements of a higher band score. 1) avoid lists. Your aim is to present stages in sentences, not in list form. So, the word “egg, larva, pupa and adult” should be written as “The ladybird goes through various stages from emerging from an egg as a larva, then forming a pupa and finally becoming an adult.”. 2) don’t add any information that doesn’t exist in the diagram – this again specifically relates to IELTS. This diagram does not compare the lady bird to other arthropods so you shouldn’t say it and this description doesn’t highlight the key features of the adult lady bird which are its colourful wings. This is about looking specifically at the diagram like a picture and seeing the main thing that stands out. 3) write numbers from ten and under as words. Don’t write “2nd” but write “second”. All such mistakes will lower your score. After reading this feedback, return to the model answer to compare.

Hi, Liz! Thank you for the sample! I recall that I saw “growth cycle” being used to describe the growth of an apple tree from the BBC, and I wonder if it can also be applied here as a synonym for “life cycle”?

I definitely wouldn’t use it for all life cycles. Some life cycles involve a period of hibernation, which is not about growth, or a period of transformation. Some life cycles involve pollination, which also could be considered outside a growth cycle. So, the words life cycle are cycles of life rather than just of growth.

Got it, thank you!

The diagrams depict the stages a lady bird undergoes during its development and the anatomy of it.

Overall, the ladybird passes through 3 stages (egg, larva and pupa stages) to finally become an adult ladybug. Whereas, the parts of the ladybug is similar to many athropods having 6 legs, wings and antenna.

Firstly, the adult ladybug lays many eggs on a leaf which last about 2 to 5 days. After that, the eggs hatch to release larva. It remains in the larval stage for 21 days before developing into a pupa which relies on leaves for it’s nutrition. Finally, after a week, an adult ladybug is formed. This lays eggs and the cycle continues.

The parts of the ladybird is similar to other insects. It has a head, 2 antenna, 2 eyes in the cephalic end. Then there is a pronotum and abdomen. Covering the body of the ladybird is it’s 2 wings and 2 red elytra. It is equipped with 6 legs, 3 on each side. One proximally and 2 distally.

Strong writing, but don’t forget to write small numbers as words (2 = two) and also mention the colour and pattern of the wings. IELTS writing tasks are usually in black and white, but colours would be labelled if relevant.

Thanks a lot for your words. Will keep that in mind.

The diagrams illustrate the stages of development and anatomy of a lady bird respectively. Overall, a lady bird undergoes four stages of life: the egg stage, the larval stage, the pupa stage, and adult stage. Additionally, the lady bird is composed of several parts on its body: head, legs, and abdomen, which are the main ones, and other auxiliary parts that enables its function as an insect. The initial stage of development begins with laying eggs on leaves which transform into a larva between two and five days. The Larva takes 21 days to complete development into a pupa. The pupa resembles a worm-like feature that has a sliding movement, and this stage lasts for 7 days, after which a full adult lady bird ensues. A fully developed lady bird has a head that houses two antenna, eyes, and a pronotum. Directly below the head is its body with wings: red elytra with black spots, legs beneath the body, and an abdomen at the other end. The anatomy of the lady bird develops as it undergoes life phases.

The two diagrams depict the lady bird’s life cycle as well as its anatomy.

Overall, the life cycle of lady birds consists of four main stages: egg, larvae, pupae and adult. Meanwhile, the body structure of a lady bird can be divided into head, pronotum and abdomen.

Regarding the first diagram, the average lifespan of the lady bird is around 30 to 33 days. Their life cycle begins as multiple rows of eggs deposited into a leaf, whereupon it takes two to three days for them to hatch. The resultant stage is called the larval stage, during which larvae spend around 21 days to transform into pupa. After the pupa have consumed the leaves for the next seven days, they eventually emerge as adult ladybirds only to repeat the entire cycle.

As for the second diagram, the head of the lady bird comprises two antennas and a pair of eyes. The thoracic plate (pronotum) connects the head and the abdomen. On top of the body, a pair of red elytra with black polka dots can be found overlying the clear transparent wings. Lastly, lady birds have six legs on their ventral sides.

Hey Liz is it compulsory to write overview as the second para ? Can’t we just start By an introduction and then write the body paragraphs containing all the major features and then end with the overview of the pie chart?

Yes, you can put the overview at the end. However, I recommend to put it after the introduction because this is a report, not an essay. The overview contains the key features which the reader needs to know, while the body paragraphs contain all the finer details. Reading the overview first, helps the reader to understand the body paragraphs. Also the overview is the most important paragraph in task 1 and carries the most weight.

Liz , Is any dramatically change in nowadays as compare to couple of years ago , such as incredible difficult or other, in ielts.

No. There have been no major changes at all, unless you consider the test is now available online and at home. There have been smaller changes, such as there is no example played at the beginning of the listening test. So, nothing to worry about.

Hi, I will write the answer can you see it and correct it. These diagrams depict stages of the life cycle of the ladybird and the anatomical structure. It’s clear from the graph the ladybird has four stages in the life cycle starting from eggs ended with the adult stage. According to what is shown in the first diagram the eggs laid on the underside of the leave and remain there for two to five days , then hatched into the larva stage after three weeks the pupa stage appear . In the end of the life cycle the adult lady bird started life again. the second diagram shown the anatomical characteristic of the lady bird which is started from head contain eyes and anetnna behind it has pronotum. it has six legs three on each side and black spot on bright red wings

Hi Liz, do we still have Life Cycle Diagram for Task 1 in the recent years? I don’t remember seeing them in newer practice books.

Thank you very much as always!

Sure. Life cycle diagrams are certainly still used. Processes showing how something is made are also very common.

The diagram discribes the different stages in life cycle as well as body parts of lady bird.

Overall, it can be seen that life cycle of lady bird consist four major stages(egg stage , larval stage, pupa stage and adult ladybug) where egg stage and adult ladybug are the begining and end of life cycle respectivelly.In addition, second figure shows that an adult lady bird has got total 8 external body parts.

The first figure shows that life of lady bird begins from egg stage , at which egg of bird lay down on leaf for 2-5 days. The second stage is larvel stage which lasts for 21 days. The body parts of larva can be easily visible at this stage. After that, it enters into pupa stage which remains for 7 days. Finally, an adult lady bird forms in last stage named as adult ladybug . Collectivelly, it can be seen that life cycle of lady bird lasts for around 30 days. /*Please let me know about my mistakes on this description and also inform how much this writing deserve out of 9 if possible*/ The second figure shows the anatomy of lady bird . After complete observation, it can be concluded that the overall body part of this bird can be divided into three major parts(front parts, middle parts and back parts) . The front parts consist head, two antenna, two eye and two proriotum where as back part has got two legs, two wings and a abdomen. Also the middle part has got bright red elgtra with black spot coveting whole of the body.

The diagram illustrates the life cycle of a lady bird, while the second diagram shows its anatomy. Overall, there is 3 developmental stages for the lady bird before it turned into adult lady bird with 8 functioning organs. The life cycle span is taking around 30 days.

According to the first diagram, the cycle starts with adult lady bug lay its eggs on a plant leaf and this stage called the “egg stage” which lasts around 2 to 5 days.After this stage the eggs developed to larvas and it takes 21 days in this “larval” stage to turn to the next stage of Pupa stage, At this point the pupa lives under the leaf for 7 days until turning to the adult ladybug.

The second diagram shows the anatomy of the adult ladybug starting with the head which contains 2 eyes, 2 pronotum and 2 antennas, then a body covered with 2 wings which have black spotted red elytra on them. Lastly it has a total number of 6 legs, 3 legs on each side.

Mam ,can we write overall in diagrams or not?

All writing task 1 for the academic test must have an overview.

I do not get number 7 why it is (emerge). I presume that i would be “larvae emerged” or “Larvae emerges”.

The task was to write the missing word. The word “larvae” is not missing – it is already given.

Hi Liz, Thank you for your lesson. I have a question about the 5th blank. I notice that your answer is ‘laid’. But I checked the Oxford dictionary, which says that ‘lay’ means a bird, insect etc lays eggs, it produces them from its body, while ‘hatch’ means if an egg hatches, it breaks, letting the young bird, insect etc come out. It seems to be the same. Could I use ‘hatch’ in this blank?

“lay” means to produce the egg. “hatch” is the verb for the young chick (or in this case, the larva) coming out of the egg. They are completely different verbs with different meanings. A bird will lay 10 eggs and sit on them for 1 month. After 1 month, some of the eggs will hatch. Hope that helps. Liz

Could you show the difference btween “hatch” and “emerge”, Many thanks, Nga

Please look in the dictionary. Don’t look in an English Vietnamese dictionary. Look in a big English English dictionary which explains the meaning of each word in English.

I have two questions, if you don’t mind. First, can we write lady bug instead of lady bird? (I know it sounds dumb but I need to know if I can replace it?) Second, I have noticed, sometimes, you write introduction and overview as one paragraph, is it because the introduction is too short to be count as one separate paragraph?

https://ieltsliz.com/liz-notice-2015-2016/

I noticed that the wings of the lady bird are actually shown as a transparent structure different from the elytra. I believe it is covered by the elytra. However, in your sentence “… that cover both the wings and the abdomen.”, it seems to me that the black spots and not the elytra is being referred to. Would “and” be more appropriate than “that” here?

Both ways can be used. All the best Liz

Dear Mam, I had read many of your tutorial .They were really enriching.Please can u tell me how to enhance vocab and also how to prevent redundancy in my writing skills . Thank, Pooja

Sorry, I don’t understand “redundancy in writing”. This is not correct English. Please write your comment again so I can understand. Thanks Liz

thank you liz ! your lessons are helping me alot. My exam is on 31st oct. I hope I’ll score 7.

Can we use the short forms of some words like “i.e.,=that is, viz.,=namely, eg.=example” in our writing test..

reply back as soon as possible because on 8th oct I have my writing exam…

Thank you..

No. You should use no contractions in IELTS writing. Liz

Hi Liz Thank you so much for your wonderful website. I just have a request. Could you please upload a model answer of any flow chart? Kind Regards

Dear Liz Thanks lot for your great teaching. I have faced so many problems in reading section. When I practice at home I just get 18 or some time 19 kinds of score. I need over 6 band. My exam is next month on 24 October. Please mam give me some tips specially for reading section.

See my tips on this page: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-reading-lessons-information-and-tips/ Liz

hello mam, thanx a lot for ur reply. i have one more query that if there is any difference between the questions,do you agree or disagree and to what extent do you agree? I mean that in both type of statements ,we can partially or fully agree? In the question agree or disagree, we have to choose one or we can sit on the fence for it? gurwinder

They are the same question. Liz

hi mam, If it is mandatory to write overview in process chart,diagrams and maps?

All writing task 1 academic tasks MUST have an overview. Liz

Whoa. Thanks so much Liz for that wonderful tip that the verb “emerge” is used for frog eggs, worm eggs etc and that you can’t use hatch because it’s for chickens.. Thank you for this wonderful website. Plus, I also found your YouTube videos helpful especially with your tips on true,false,not given question. Before watching that, I could barely have a passing mark but now, I find that type of test in reading the easiest. Now, I’m enjoying learning writing from your website. I’m positive that I’ll get my target band score. More power to you.

That’s really good news! I’m glad you are beginning to enjoy learning and you are developing. I always hope students can enjoy IELTS as well as improve their score. Thanks for your support 🙂 Liz

Hi miss Liz, my ielts test was on 13th of August and it was my first attempt essay was government should spend money on international aid and when they disadvantaged people such as; unemployment and homeless. So I couldn’t understand disadvantaged people even I couldn’t write conclusion due to less time in addition I didn’t complete questions of reading passeges.

Thank you Liz for your interesting lessons!

First of all, thank you for today’s lesson. I have a question regarding the 7th gap. Can we use ‘are hatched’ or ‘hatch’ instead of ’emerge’

No, hatch is used with chicken eggs, not worm eggs or frogs eggs. Diagrams are really testing your understanding on collocations. All the best Liz

I m a student of GT..pls send me the topics or tips for writing test related to this…

First off all, thanks for this useful site. I’m just wondering about the answer of the item 5, why don’t we use passive form of “remain” ? When I’ve filled the by myself, I thought the answer was “remained” Thank you, Chompoo

Oh! sorry, It was my mistake. I should have checked it more carefully. The answer of the item 5 is “laid”

Really your way in teaching so amazing !!

Thank you from the bottom of my heart 🙂

You’re welcome 🙂

Thanks. We need more help especially in academic writing. The fill in gaps practice is very fruitful.

Good to know. I’ll do more in the future. Liz

thanks. It’s really improving my level in ilets.

Initially,I would like to thank you very much for your efforts and time.

And I’ve noticed that the word ( antenna ) in the second-to-last line in your answer is supposed to be ( antennae ), isn’t it ?

Thanks. Well spotted! Liz

why does the answer of no 7 is not “emerges”?

Because “larvae” is plural. The singular is “larva”. All the best Liz

Dear Eizabeth, I am grateful to have someone like you and this page help me a lot. But still I have problems with writing. So please what will you advise me to enhance my writing skills. Thanks.

My only advice is to review your writing for structure and linking devices, check my model essays for content of each paragraph and how to write topic sentences, learn the techniques for each type of question in writing and lastly check that your language is accurate and you are avoiding errors. All the best Liz

Hi liz. .this post is very helpful. .hope to see more from you. .i am having difficulty with diagram and processes . .hope you include that in yoir next post. .thank you.

Wow~! It is really helpful practice for a diagram. I really appreciate your efforts~! Thank you very much~!

Thanks. I’m really pleased you found this lesson useful 🙂 Liz

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IELTS Exam Preparation: Free IELTS Tips, 2024

• IELTS writing

Sometimes IELTS Writing Task 1 requires you to describe a process. If you have a ‘describing a process’ task in the exam, you will be given a diagram with a series of pictures. The diagram shows the stages of how something is made or how something works .

Sample Questions

How bees produce honey.

The diagram illustrates how bees produce honey.

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

Fish pie production line

The diagrams give information about the manufacture of frozen fish pies.

Recycling process of aluminium cans

The diagram shows the recycling process of aluminium cans.

Home energy production

The diagram shows a possible future means of home energy production.

Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC)

The diagram shows the production of electricity using a system called Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC).

Generating electricity from sea waves

The diagrams show a structure that is used to generate electricity from wave power.

Gas cooled nuclear reactor

The diagram shows the production of steam using a gas cooled nuclear reactor.

Greenhouse Gases

The diagram shows how greenhouse gases trap energy from the Sun.

Central Heating System

The diagram shows how a central heating system in a house works.

Eiffel Tower

The diagrams give information about the Eiffel Tower in Paris and an outline project to extend it underground.

Hawaiian Island Chain

The diagram gives the information about the Hawaiian island chain in the centre of the Pacific Ocean.

Consumer Goods Manufacturing

The Diagram shows the typical stages of consumer goods manufacturing, including the process by which information is fed back to earlier stages to enable adjustment.

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