Physics Wallah

IELTS Rainwater Diagram, Vocabulary, Model Answer, Writing Tips

IELTS Rainwater Diagram model question and answer for practice to help you achieve a higher band in the IELTS exam. Candidates can find the IELTS Rainwater Diagram, vocabulary, and writing tips here.
authorImageKhushboo Goyal27 May, 2025
Share

Share

IELTS Rainwater Diagram

IELTS Rainwater Diagram: In IELTS Writing Task 1, you might be given a process diagram to explain, and one of the frequently used examples is the water cycle, also known as the rainwater cycle. This kind of diagram illustrates how rainwater travels through various phases in the natural environment. To get a good score, it's essential to describe each stage in a logical order and use suitable vocabulary that matches the process.

Also Check:

Understanding the IELTS Rainwater Diagram

The rainwater cycle diagram illustrates how water continuously moves through different stages in the environment. It is a natural and recurring process that includes evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and collection. Each step shows how water changes form and circulates between the Earth and the atmosphere.

IELTS Online Coaching

Step-by-Step Breakdown of the Rainwater Cycle

Here is a detailed explanation of each stage in the rainwater cycle:

1. Evaporation

  • Water from oceans, rivers, and lakes gets heated by the sun.

  • As the temperature rises, water turns into vapour and rises into the air.

  • This process is known as evaporation.

2. Condensation

  • When the water vapour reaches higher altitudes, it cools down.

  • The cooling process causes vapour to change into tiny water droplets.

  • These droplets group together to form clouds. This stage is called condensation.

3. Precipitation

  • As more droplets gather, clouds become heavy and saturated.

  • Eventually, water falls back to the earth in the form of precipitation.

  • This includes rain, snow, or hail, depending on weather conditions.

4. Collection

  • The water from precipitation gets collected in various places:

    • Natural water bodies like rivers, lakes, and oceans

    • Artificial reservoirs or underground sources

  • Some water also seeps into the soil, contributing to groundwater.

  • From here, the cycle begins again through evaporation.

IELTS Writing Task 1 Sample Answer

Question: The diagram below shows the process of collecting, filtering, and distributing rainwater. Summarize the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

IELTS Rainwater Diagram

Answer: 

The diagram shows how rainwater is collected, cleaned, and then supplied to households for daily use.

To begin with, rainwater is gathered from the rooftops of buildings. It flows through gutters and downspouts into a main collection point. This initial step helps collect as much rainwater as possible. Once collected, the water passes through a filtration system, which removes dirt, leaves, and other unwanted particles that might pollute it.

After the basic filtration, the water is stored in large underground tanks. These tanks serve as a reservoir, especially useful during times when there is little or no rain. From here, the water goes through an advanced purification stage. This includes chemical treatment and further filtering to make sure the water is safe to drink.

The final step involves sending the treated water through a network of pipes to houses. This distribution system ensures that the clean water reaches people for their everyday needs.

Overall, the diagram outlines a practical and efficient method of turning rainwater into a safe and reliable water source. Every stage—from capturing and cleaning the rainwater to storing and delivering it—helps maintain the quality and accessibility of water for household use.

Also Check:

Vocabulary for Describing Diagrams

Here are some useful words and phrases for describing the rainwater cycle in IELTS Writing Task 1:

Word/Phrase

Meaning

Evaporation

Process of water turning into vapour

Condensation

Vapour turning into droplets/clouds

Precipitation

Rain, snow, or hail falling from clouds

Collection

Gathering of water after precipitation

Saturated

Filled completely with moisture

Infiltration

Water seeping into the soil

Repeating cycle

A process that continues over and over

Structure Tips for Process Diagrams

When writing about a process like the rainwater cycle, follow this structure:

  1. Introduction – Paraphrase the task.

  2. Overview – Summarise the entire cycle.

  3. Main Body Paragraphs – Describe each stage in sequence.

  4. Linking words – Use time connectors like first, next, then, finally.

IELTS Exam Other Related Links
IELTS Exam IELTS Full Form
IELTS  Registration IELTS Eligibility Criteria
IELTS Exam Pattern IELTS Syllabus 2024
IELTS Exam Dates IDP IELTS Test Centers
IELTS Cut Off IDP IELTS Slot Booking
IELTS Mock Test IELTS Academic Vs General
IELTS Books and Study Guide IELTS Band Score

IELTS Rainwater Diagram FAQs

How do I describe a process diagram in IELTS Writing Task 1?

Describe each step clearly, use passive voice where appropriate, and avoid giving opinions or reasons unless shown in the diagram.

Should I include all stages of the rainwater cycle?

Yes, cover all stages (evaporation, condensation, precipitation, collection) to show a full understanding of the process.

What tense should I use in a process diagram?

Use the present simple tense, as the process is usually a natural or scientific fact.

How can I improve my vocabulary for process diagrams?

Learn topic-specific words (like condensation, infiltration) and practice using them in sentences related to the diagram.

Is it necessary to mention the sun in the rainwater cycle?

Yes, since the sun is the main source of heat that drives evaporation, it should be included if shown in the diagram.
Join 15 Million students on the app today!
Point IconLive & recorded classes available at ease
Point IconDashboard for progress tracking
Point IconMillions of practice questions at your fingertips
Download ButtonDownload Button
Banner Image
Banner Image
Free Learning Resources
Know about Physics Wallah
Physics Wallah is an Indian edtech platform that provides accessible & comprehensive learning experiences to students from Class 6th to postgraduate level. We also provide extensive NCERT solutions, sample paper, NEET, JEE Mains, BITSAT previous year papers & more such resources to students. Physics Wallah also caters to over 3.5 million registered students and over 78 lakh+ Youtube subscribers with 4.8 rating on its app.
We Stand Out because
We provide students with intensive courses with India’s qualified & experienced faculties & mentors. PW strives to make the learning experience comprehensive and accessible for students of all sections of society. We believe in empowering every single student who couldn't dream of a good career in engineering and medical field earlier.
Our Key Focus Areas
Physics Wallah's main focus is to make the learning experience as economical as possible for all students. With our affordable courses like Lakshya, Udaan and Arjuna and many others, we have been able to provide a platform for lakhs of aspirants. From providing Chemistry, Maths, Physics formula to giving e-books of eminent authors like RD Sharma, RS Aggarwal and Lakhmir Singh, PW focuses on every single student's need for preparation.
What Makes Us Different
Physics Wallah strives to develop a comprehensive pedagogical structure for students, where they get a state-of-the-art learning experience with study material and resources. Apart from catering students preparing for JEE Mains and NEET, PW also provides study material for each state board like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and others

Copyright © 2025 Physicswallah Limited All rights reserved.