Academic Writing Task 1 · process diagram

The process of generating electricity using wave power structures

The diagrams 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 sea waves

1.Wave enters chamber forcing air up through column
2.Air flow turns turbine to generate electricity
3.Wave recedes drawing air down through column
4.Air flow turns turbine in same direction to generate electricity

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 diagrams illustrate the mechanism of a wave power system designed to generate electricity. The structure consists of a chamber built into a cliff or sea wall, connected to a vertical column containing a turbine, which is linked to an electrical output.

Overall, the process is cyclical, relying on the movement of waves to force air through a column. Crucially, the turbine is designed to rotate in the same direction whether air is being pushed upwards or pulled downwards, ensuring a continuous generation of electricity.

In the first stage, labeled A, an incoming wave enters the chamber. As the water level rises, it displaces the air inside, forcing it upwards through the column. This upward airflow drives the turbine, which then produces electricity. In the second stage, labeled B, the wave recedes from the chamber. This action creates a vacuum effect, drawing air downwards from the top of the column. Despite the reversal of the airflow direction, the turbine continues to spin in the same direction, thereby maintaining the generation of electricity as the cycle repeats.

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

How to write about 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.

cyclical: occurring in a repeating series of events
displaces: moves something from its proper or original place
oscillating: moving back and forth in a regular rhythm
recedes: moves back or further away from a point
mechanism: a system of parts working together in machines
continuous: forming an unbroken whole without any interruption

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Frequently asked questions

What should the overview say?

The process illustrates a two-stage cycle where the oscillating movement of sea waves within a chamber drives a turbine to produce electricity regardless of the wave's direction.

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.