Academic Writing Task 1 · process diagram

The recycling process of aluminium cans from collection to reuse

The diagram below shows the recycling process of aluminium cans.

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

The recycling process of aluminium cans
  1. 1.Used cans are collected
  2. 2.Collection by truck
  3. 3.Cleaning, sorting, shredding and compressing
  4. 4.Heating and melting
  5. 5.Rolling into 2.5mm - 6mm thick sheets
  6. 6.Recycling into new cans
  7. 7.Reusing with 74% recycled rate in the UK

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 various stages involved in the recycling process of aluminium cans, starting from the collection of used items to their eventual reuse as new products.

Overall, the process is a cyclical operation that transforms used aluminium cans into new products, with the UK achieving a 74% recycling rate for these materials. The entire procedure consists of seven distinct stages, beginning with the disposal of used cans by consumers.

Initially, used cans are placed into collection bins, from where they are transported by a collection truck. Once collected, the cans undergo a series of mechanical treatments, specifically cleaning, sorting, shredding, and compressing. Following this, the processed aluminium is subjected to heating and melting. The molten metal is then rolled into sheets that measure between 2.5mm and 6mm in thickness.

In the final stages, these sheets are recycled into new cans. These new products are then distributed for reuse, a phase where the UK reports that 74% of the cans are successfully recycled. This closed-loop system ensures that aluminium is efficiently repurposed, thereby reducing the need for raw material extraction.

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

How to write about process diagrams

cyclical
occurring in a repeating series of events
transform
to change the form or appearance of something
distinct
clearly different or of a different kind
subjected to
to be forced to experience a process
closed-loop
a system where materials are continuously recycled
repurposed
to adapt something for a different use

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Frequently asked questions

What should the overview say?

The process is a cyclical operation that transforms used aluminium cans into new products, with the UK achieving a 74% recycling rate for these materials.

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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