IELTS Writing Task 1: Describing Processes
Satellites, GPS and space technology
Answers and an explanation for each question appear once you add this activity to your own library.
👩🏫 For the Teacher:
Use this 40-minute module to train essential process-writing skills step by step before learners attempt a full task. Guide students through each activity in order and use the automated grading checks to review their answers together.
🧑🎓 For the Learner:
First, complete the word form and linking word exercises to learn how to sequence steps clearly. Next, complete the passive voice fill-in-the-blanks and paraphrase questions to master key writing patterns.
Process Writing Basics: How to Bake Bread at Home
Learn key vocabulary, sequence words, passive structures, and sentence paraphrasing used to describe a step-by-step process.
📝 Part (a): Word Forms
Complete each sentence by writing the correct form of the word in brackets.
1. The ___ (prepare) of the dough takes about fifteen minutes.
____2. Fresh yeast helps to ___ (product) carbon dioxide bubbles inside the dough.
____3. A thorough ___ (combine) of flour, salt, and water ensures a smooth mixture.
____4. After resting in a warm place, the dough shows a clear ___ (expand) in size.
____5. The final stage in making bread at home is the ___ (bake) phase in the oven.
____🔗 Part (b): Linking Words for a Process
Choose the correct sequence word to complete each sentence.
1. ___, gather and weigh all necessary ingredients including flour, yeast, and water.
2. Mix the dry ingredients in a large bowl; ___, gradually pour in warm water.
3. Knead the dough firmly for ten minutes. ___, place it into an oiled bowl to rest.
4. Leave the dough to rise in a warm room. ___, shape it carefully into a round loaf.
5. ___, place the loaf into a hot preheated oven and bake until golden brown.
⚙️ Part (c): Fill in the Passive Voice
Complete each sentence using the passive verb forms from the word bank below.
Word Bank
1. First, the dry ingredients and warm water ___ together until a dough forms.
____2. Next, the soft dough ___ by hand on a floured surface for ten minutes.
____3. After kneading, the dough ___ in a warm room to double in size.
____4. Once risen, individual portions ___ into round loaves before baking.
____5. Finally, the bread ___ in a hot oven at 200°C for thirty-five minutes.
____🔄 Part (d): Paraphrasing
Choose the sentence (a, b, or c) that expresses the exact same meaning as the original sentence.
IELTS Task 1: Weather Satellite Process Report
Examine the step-by-step process below and write a complete report describing how a small weather satellite is constructed and launched into orbit.
Writing Task Prompt
The diagram shows how a small weather satellite is built and put into orbit. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features.
Write at least 150 words.
Process Steps
📋 Process Report Checklist
Before submitting your report, check that your essay contains every required component:
Your Essay Response
Write your full Task 1 report in the space below. It will be evaluated on IELTS Academic criteria.
____ (Write your response here (at least 150 words)...)Sample Process Report & Key Phrases
Read this sample answer to see how to organize steps clearly and use strong connecting phrases.
📄 Model Answer
Word Count: 160 wordsThe diagram illustrates the process of building a small weather satellite and sending it into orbit. Overall, the process consists of eight main stages, beginning with manufacturing and testing on the ground, followed by transportation, rocket launch, and final positioning in space.
First, the satellite's body is built by engineers, and its instruments and solar panels are fitted. Following this, the satellite is tested inside a special chamber that copies the extreme cold of space, as well as on a machine that shakes it to simulate a launch. Once tested, it is carried to the launch site by lorry.
Next, workers place the satellite onto the top of a rocket. During liftoff, the first stage of the rocket burns all its fuel before falling away. Subsequently, a second stage carries the satellite higher into space. Upon reaching the right height, the satellite separates from the rocket. Finally, it opens its solar panels and begins transmitting data back to the ground.
💡 Useful Phrases & Why They Work
Study these highlighted phrases from the model answer to improve your own report writing.
"The diagram illustrates the process of..."
"Overall, the process consists of..."
"...is built by engineers, and its instruments... are fitted"
"Following this,..."
"Once tested,..."
"Subsequently,..."
"Upon reaching the right height,..."
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