Academic Task 1 · 171 words
Returnable bottles: follow the loop and the exit
Describe a repeated sequence while distinguishing reusable bottles from the damaged items that leave it.
Study the method: Process diagrams: follow stages, cycles and separate branches →
Band 6 goal: Process sequencing
Complete every task part clearly and organise the response so the reader can follow it. This is a study route, not an examiner score assigned to the answer. How IELTS Writing is assessed.
The question
The diagram shows a simplified system for collecting and reusing glass bottles. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.
Open full-size diagram (new tab)The sample answer
The diagram illustrates a simplified system in which empty glass bottles are collected, prepared for reuse and returned to customers through shops. It also shows a separate route for bottles that are unsuitable for further use.
Overall, there are six main stages in the return loop, from collection to customer use and return. Inspection divides the flow: reusable bottles continue towards washing and refilling, whereas damaged bottles are taken out of circulation and sent for glass recycling.
At the beginning of the sequence shown, empty bottles are collected and then inspected. Those identified as damaged leave the main route at this point. The remaining bottles are washed before moving to the refilling stage. The diagram does not show the subsequent treatment of the glass sent for recycling.
After refilling, the bottles are delivered to shops, following the lower row from right to left. Customers then use and return them. The empty containers re-enter the cycle at collection, so a further inspection takes place before they can be washed and refilled again.
Vocabulary in context
Each phrase appears in the answer above. Learn how it works, not just a replacement word.
- are taken out of circulation
- Are removed from a system of repeated use.
Use this for the damaged bottles, not for those continuing towards washing.
- re-enter the cycle
- Return to a sequence that can be repeated.
Name the point of return so the reader can follow the arrow back to collection.
- a separate route
- A different path from the main sequence of stages.
Use this to distinguish the recycling branch from the route taken by reusable bottles.
Now make it your own
Write your own two-sentence overview. Identify the return loop and the recycling exit, then check that neither sentence claims every collected bottle is refilled.
For a smaller practice step, use the explanation, knowledge check and self-review exercise in Describe maps and processes precisely.
The practice link opens the original question, not a copy of this answer.
Open the writing workspaceMore examples of this question type
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.