This page illustrates an example of an IELTS process. Occasionally you will have to describe a process in the test instead of a graph.
Although this type of diagram is less common to see in the test, it is still important to have an understanding of how to tackle this should it arise.
This is an example of the process of making bricks. A sample answer is below the diagram.
Diagram Sample – Brick Manufacturing Process
| You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. The diagram illustrates the process that is used to manufacture bricks for the building industry. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features and make comparisons where relevant. Write at least 150 words. |
The Brick Manufacturing Process
Model Answer
The diagram explains the way in which bricks are made for the building industry. Overall, there are seven stages in the process, beginning with the digging up of clay and culminating in delivery.
To begin, the clay used to make the bricks is dug up from the ground by a large digger. This clay is then placed onto a metal grid, which is used to break up the clay into smaller pieces. A roller assists in this process.
Following this, sand and water are added to the clay, and this mixture is turned into bricks by either placing it into a mould or using a wire cutter. Next, these bricks are placed in an oven to dry for 24 – 48 hours.
In the subsequent stage, the bricks go through a heating and cooling process. They are heated in a kiln at a moderate and then a high temperature (ranging from 200c to 1300c), followed by a cooling process in a chamber for 2 – 3 days. Finally, the bricks are packed and delivered to their destinations.
(Words 173)
Tips about the answer
The topic of the IELTS process diagram is first introduced and then an overview is given. You should give an overview for all academic task 1 responses, not just graphs.
In this case, here is the overview:
Overall, there are seven stages in the process, beginning with the digging up of clay and culminating in delivery.
It uses the passive voice which is needed when you describe a process diagram in IELTS but you are not referring to who is doing the action. Here are some examples of the passive used:
- clay is then placed
- which is used to
- sand and water are added
- bricks are placed
- They are heated
Comment about the model answer
Task Achievement: Band 8
- The response clearly outlines the process of brick-making, providing a detailed step-by-step description of the stages involved.
- Key features of the diagram are well-highlighted, including specific time frames and temperature ranges.
- The response fully addresses the task, but slight additional detail about the sequence of steps (e.g., more description of the cooling process) could improve precision.
Coherence and Cohesion: Band 8
- The description is logically organized, following the process from start to finish.
- Cohesive devices such as “To begin,” “Following this,” “Next,” and “Finally” guide the reader smoothly through the explanation.
- The transitions are clear and effective, though more variation in linking phrases could improve the flow.
Lexical Resource: Band 7
- A good range of vocabulary is used accurately, with terms like “metal grid,” “roller,” “mould,” and “kiln.”
- There is some repetition of words like “process” and “clay.” More variety in word choice (e.g., using “procedure” or “steps” instead of “process”) could enhance the lexical range.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 8
- A variety of sentence structures is used correctly, including complex sentences like “They are heated in a kiln at a moderate and then a high temperature.”
- There are no significant grammatical errors, and passive structures are used appropriately to describe the process.
- Slightly more variation in sentence patterns could elevate the score.
Overall Band: 7.5-8
This is a strong response that provides a clear and detailed description of the brick-making process. Slight improvements in lexical variety and sentence structure could enhance the overall score.
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