Academic Writing Task 1 · process diagram

The process of constructing a storage area using concrete canvas

The diagram shows a process of making a storage area from a material called concrete canvas.

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

The process of making a concrete canvas storage area
  1. 1.1. Manufacturing: layering fibrous top surface, dry concrete, and waterproof layer
  2. 2.2. Delivering: transporting the material by truck
  3. 3.3. Unwrapping: removing the material from its packaging
  4. 4.4. Spreading on the ground: securing the material with pegs and ropes
  5. 5.5. Pumping Air: inflating the structure using an air pump
  6. 6.6. Watering: spraying the structure with water
  7. 7.7. Setting: allowing the structure to harden for 20-24 hours
  8. 8.8. Storing: using the completed structure for storage

Chart redrawn by BandLadder from the data in the original IELTS practice task. Many IELTS practice tasks come from the Cambridge IELTS series (Cambridge University Press & Assessment); all rights in the original tasks remain with their owners.

Band 8 sample answer

The provided diagram illustrates the eight-stage process of constructing a storage facility using a specialized material known as concrete canvas. Overall, the procedure transforms a flexible, multi-layered material into a rigid, dome-shaped structure through a sequence of preparation, inflation, and curing steps.

The process commences with the manufacturing of the concrete canvas, which consists of a fibrous top surface, a layer of dry concrete, and a waterproof base. Once manufactured, the material is delivered to the site and unwrapped. In the fourth stage, the material is spread across the ground, measuring 10 metres in length, and secured using pegs and ropes attached to a vehicle.

Subsequently, an air pump is utilised to inflate the structure, creating a dome shape. Once inflated, the exterior is sprayed with water to initiate the hardening process. The structure then undergoes a setting period of 20 to 24 hours. After this time, the concrete canvas hardens, resulting in a finished dome structure that stands 8 metres high. Finally, the interior space is ready to be utilised for storing goods, completing the construction cycle.

178 words. Every figure in the answer comes from the chart above.

How to write about process diagrams

commences
to begin or start a particular process
subsequently
happening after something else has already occurred
utilised
to make practical and effective use of
consists of
to be composed or made up of
resulting in
to cause something to happen or exist
sequence
a particular order in which things follow

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Frequently asked questions

What should the overview say?

The process involves eight distinct stages, beginning with the manufacturing of the composite material and concluding with the structure being ready for use after a setting period.

How long should an IELTS Task 1 answer be?

At least 150 words; 170 to 200 is the safe range. Spend about 20 minutes on it and leave 40 for Task 2, which carries twice the marks.

How do I describe process diagrams?

Say how many stages there are and where the process starts and ends. Use the passive and sequencers: first, after this, once, finally. Keep every stage; a missing step costs task achievement.

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