Introduction to the Model Answer
A single bar chart is one of the most common question types in IELTS Writing Task 1. However, unlike charts that show trends over time, this particular chart compares data from two countries at a single point in time. Many IELTS candidates struggle with such questions, particularly when writing a strong overview—a crucial element for achieving a Band 7+ score.
In this model answer, you will see how to structure a clear and well-organized response, focusing on key comparisons between Germany and France. The essay demonstrates effective data selection, logical paragraphing, and varied vocabulary and grammar, helping candidates improve their approach to similar IELTS Writing Task 1 questions.
IELTS Writing Task 1 Bar Chart Question
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
The bar chart below compares the sources of electricity generation in Germany and France in the year 2022.
Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features and make comparisons where relevant.
You should write at least 150 words.

The bar chart illustrates the proportion of electricity generated from five different sources and a miscellaneous category in Germany and France in 2022.
Overall, Germany relied more on fossil fuels, while France was highly dependent on nuclear energy. Coal was the largest contributor to Germany’s electricity generation, whereas nuclear power dominated in France.
In Germany, coal accounted for 35% of total electricity production, making it the most significant source. Natural gas followed at 25%, while nuclear and renewables contributed 20% and 15%, respectively. The smallest portion came from other sources (5%).
In contrast, France produced over half (55%) of its electricity from nuclear power, making it the most dominant source. The contributions of coal and natural gas were relatively low, at 10% and 15%, respectively. Renewables played the same role in both countries (15%), while other sources made up just 5% in each nation.
In summary, Germany’s electricity mix was more balanced, with fossil fuels playing a major role, while France depended heavily on nuclear power for its energy needs.
Rationale for the IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer
1. Clear Overview (Key Feature of Band 7+)
A strong response must include an overview, summarizing the most significant trends. In this essay, we highlight the main contrast between the two countries:
- Germany relies more on coal and natural gas.
- France depends heavily on nuclear power.
This comparison-focused approach helps you score well in Task Achievement by demonstrating an understanding of the data rather than simply listing figures.
2. Effective Organization (Coherence & Cohesion)
The essay follows a logical progression:
- Introduction: Briefly introduces the topic and what the chart shows.
- Overview: Highlights the key trends.
- Body Paragraph 1: Explains Germany’s electricity generation in detail.
- Body Paragraph 2: Describes France’s electricity mix while making comparisons.
- Conclusion (optional): Summarizes the findings concisely.
Each paragraph contains one clear main idea, with comparisons naturally included, making the essay easy to follow.
3. Well-Selected Data (Task Achievement)
A common mistake in IELTS Writing Task 1 is listing too many numbers without explaining the trends. In this response, we have:
- Selected only the most relevant data (e.g., highlighting that coal is Germany’s largest energy source while nuclear dominates in France).
- Used comparisons (e.g., “Germany’s electricity mix was more balanced, while France depended heavily on nuclear power”).
This approach demonstrates analytical thinking, which is key to achieving Band 7+ in Task Achievement.
4. Varied Sentence Structures & Vocabulary (Lexical Resource & Grammar)
To score well in Lexical Resource (Vocabulary) and Grammatical Range & Accuracy, the essay avoids repetition and includes a variety of sentence structures, such as:
- Comparatives: “Germany’s electricity mix was more balanced, while France depended heavily on nuclear power.”
- Complex Sentences: “While other sources made up just 5% in each nation, the contribution of coal and gas varied significantly.”
- Passive Voice: “The bar chart illustrates the proportion of electricity generated from five different sources.”
This range of grammar and vocabulary makes the response more sophisticated and natural, helping boost the overall band score.
How to Continue Your IELTS Study
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