Academic Task 1 · Processes and stages
Making recycled paper sheets
An original IELTS practice question with a planning route and a sample answer to learn from.
Aim for at least 150 words in about 20 minutes. Suggested practice level: intermediate, not a predicted band.
Your writing task
The diagram shows a simplified process for making recycled paper sheets from used paper. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.
Open full-size diagram (new tab)How to approach this question
Identify the start, end and main phases. Follow the arrows, describe each major stage and avoid adding causes, machinery or timings that are not shown.
Process diagrams: follow stages, cycles and separate branches →
Overview selection: describe the eight-stage linear sequence, starting with used paper and ending with packed sheets. Group preparation and pulp-making separately from forming and finishing the paper.
Detail grouping: follow the numbered arrows, including the right-to-left lower row. Name water where it enters and plastic where it is removed; do not invent temperatures, machines or recycling loops.
These are possible directions, not required opinions or facts to memorise. Develop your own response and check every claim against the task.
A possible plan
- Introduction: identify what is shown, including the time period or stages where relevant.
- Overview: select the largest changes, main contrasts or overall process without inventing causes.
- Details 1: group related features and support them with accurate data, locations or stages.
- Details 2: cover the remaining main features and make relevant comparisons. Check units, dates and direction of change.
Vocabulary you can use precisely
Choose language that fits your meaning. You do not need to include every phrase.
- is mixed with
- Is combined with another material or substance.
The sorted paper is mixed with water before the pulp is screened.
- subsequently
- At a later point in a sequence.
The sheet is dried and subsequently cut to size.
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