IELTS Writing Task 1 #149

Useful language

  • In the introduction you can use: The diagram/picture/chart shows/illustrates/describes/depicts the process of/how ...
  • Find a starting point and write the process as a series of steps.
  • Useful connecting words you can use are:
    • Adverbs: first/firstly/first of all, secondly, thirdly, then/next/after that/following that/ following on from this/subsequently/subsequent to that, finally
    • Prepositions: At the beginning of ...; At the end of ...
  • Use the present simple to describe processes.
  • The agent is not usually mentioned unless a task is performed by a particular person.
  • When describing a cycle, you can conclude: The cycle then repeats itself/is then repeated.

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

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.

IELTS Writing Process

Model answer

The diagram illustrates how aluminium cans are recycled. First, the cans need to be taken to special collection centres instead of being thrown away with the normal refuse. The cans are collected from here and taken to a factory where they are first sorted and then cleaned. Next, the cans are shredded and crushed in a special machine.

The metal is then heated to a high enough temperature to allow the aluminium to melt. It is then rolled out flat to a thickness of between 2.5mm and 6 mm, depending on what it is going to be used for. The aluminium is now ready to be recycled into new packaging, such as drink containers. Finally, the new cans are delivered to a soft drinks factory where they are filled. The cans can now be sold to the public and reused. In the UK, 74 per cent of all aluminium cans that are sold are recycled.

(155 words)


Dear readers,

This is to inform you that we have moved to a new domain, https://www.ielts-writing.info/EXAM/.

Our old domain, https://www.ielts-exam.net/ will remain active till the time we migrate all our content to the new domain.

We look forward to your continuing support.