Academic Writing Task 1 · process diagram

The process of recycling organic waste to produce garden fertilizer

The diagram below shows how to recycle organic waste to produce garden fertilizer (compost).

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

  1. 1.Prepare a 2m³ plastic container with air vents
  2. 2.Layer 15cm of food, 15cm of grass, and newspaper, then add waste
  3. 3.Add nitrogen and hot water to the mixture
  4. 4.Seal the container to generate internal heat
  5. 5.Allow the mixture to decompose for 6 months to produce compost for the garden

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 step-by-step procedure for recycling organic waste to create garden fertilizer. Overall, the process is a relatively straightforward method that utilizes a 2m³ plastic container to facilitate the decomposition of organic materials over a period of six months.

In the initial stages, a plastic container equipped with air vents is prepared. The second step involves layering the base of the container with 15cm of food scraps, followed by a 15cm layer of grass and a top layer of newspaper, with additional waste added to the top. Once the materials are layered, the third stage requires the addition of nitrogen and hot water to the mixture to initiate the breakdown process.

Following the addition of these components, the container is sealed in the fourth stage, which allows heat to build up inside, facilitating the decomposition of the organic matter. Finally, after a duration of six months, the organic waste is transformed into compost, which can then be applied to a garden. This systematic approach effectively converts household waste into a useful resource for gardening purposes.

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

How to write about process diagrams

illustrates
shows or explains something using a visual aid
facilitate
to make an action or process easier
duration
the length of time something continues to exist
subsequent
coming after something else in time or order
transformed
to change the form or appearance of something
systematic
done according to a fixed plan or system

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Frequently asked questions

What should the overview say?

The process involves a five-stage transformation of organic waste into compost within a ventilated plastic container, requiring specific additives and a six-month duration.

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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