Task 1 GT Samples

Sample 1

You have recently ordered an item through the Internet, but are not happy with the purchase. Write

to the company. In your letter:

- describe what you purchased,

- explain why you are not happy with the purchase,

- tell them what you would like them to do about the situation.

Dear Sir or Madam,

I am writing this letter to express my disappointment with a recent purchase on your online store, order

number #7298883. I ordered a set of soccer equipments that were advertised on your site as a package

including 3 pairs of socks and a pair of soccer boots. However, on their arrival I found out that there

were only 2 pairs of socks. In addition, there were scratches on the boots that suggest that they had

been used before and returned to your store.

I have since found the same offer on another website and will be returning the packages to your office. I

have read the refund policy, and as I am dissatisfied with the product, I would like to request a return of

all fees paid, as well as the postal and packaging fees. Should you have any questions, you can contact

me via email, my address is [email protected].

I look forward to a swift resolution to this matter.

Thanks for your time,

Raymond Jose

The student has sufficiently addressed all the points in the task statement. The information is

organized well and conveyed coherently. The paragraphing of the letter is fine. Even though some

minor grammatical errors are present in this letter, it is a very good one, and seems worthy of Band 8.

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Sample 2

You are not happy with the course you are doing at college and would like to change to a different course. Write

a letter to the college director requesting to change your course. You should include details about:

- What course are you doing now

- Why you are not satisfied with that course

- What course would you like to change to

Dear Mr. Hodgkins,

I am currently enrolled in an Italian cooking class at St. James and am writing regarding some difficulties I have had

doing this subject for the past two weeks. I would like to know if it is possible to change my course.

I believe that the last day allowed for students to make any changes was Wednesday 5th June but, in my situation,

the circumstance is uncompromising. The fact is that, during the enrolment session, no one mentioned that I

needed to be literate in Italian, which I’m not. Therefore, you will comprehend that for me, getting an

understanding of what the teacher is saying is beyond comprehensible.

Thus, I am requesting that my current enrollment be transferred from the Italian course to the French cooking

class. As unlike in Italian, I am fluent in French.

I apologize for any inconvenience this may cause to you and the staff and look forward to hearing from you.

Yours sincerely,

Sandrine Mo

The student’s response covers the task question very well, the sentences have good structure, the level of

formality is adequate and the vocabulary is suitable for the purpose. Some expressions would sound better in

different wording (see suggestions underlined in blue). Overall, this letter is a very good one, and seems worthy

of Band 8.5.

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Sample 2

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

Your family is going to move to another town. Write a letter to the Principal of a local school asking if they will accept your

son. Describe his academic achievements and scope of interests.

You should write at least 150 words.

Begin your letter as follow;

Dear …

Model answer:

Dear Principal,

I am writing to ask you if there is a place in your school for my son, Ryan Larkin. Ryan is in Form 9 at his present school. He is

interested in Science subjects, so we are keen to find a school with good science laboratories and teachers.

I am enclosing a copy of Ryan’s school report for last year, which shows his good marks in science and his love of sport,

particularly, football. He is captain of the under 15’s team which plays near our house. He is also interested in music, and is part

of his school orchestra.

Please let us know if you have an orchestra at your school. We are going to arrive at our new home in June next year, and we

are looking for a house in your area. We will be happy to provide you with more information about Ryan, and we are looking

forward to receiving information about your school.

I do hope you can find place at your school for a boy with Ryan’s interests.

Yours faithfully

Judy Larkin

(180 words)

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Sample 4


You want to start your own small business. Write a letter to a bank requesting information about obtaining a business loan

to finance your new company. Include the following information:

what kind of business you want to start

How much money you need

The length of time over which you would expect to repay the money


You do NOT need to write your own address.

Begin your letter as follows:

Dear …

Model answer:

Dear Sir or Madam,

I am writing to ask for information concerning a loan. I am planning to start a new business, which is my very first attempt, and I

need some help.

I am hoping to set up a small restaurant near University of Brighton. My market research suggests that currently we do not

have any restaurant near the university. Approximately 2000 students come and go by the area each day, and believe my new

business will allow them to have a meal break for the day.

Since I need a sum of £30000 to start up the business, I would like to know what interest rate you offer. I would hope to repay

the sum within five years at most, so I wonder what kind of deal you can offer. Could you therefore send some details of your

business loan conditions to the e-mail address below, or call (044) 710727102 during the daytime?

I very much look forward to receiving your prompt reply.

Your faithfully,

Danny Smith([email protected])

(168 words)

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Sample 5


Write a letter to your friend about a museum that you have visited. Write three paragraphs that focus

on

• Where you went

• What you saw there

• How you felt about it.

Write at least 150 words.

Model answer:

Dear Tina,

I have just returned home from very exciting trip to Amsterdam in Holland. I went there with my family

for a long weekend. We stayed in a pretty little hotel in the centre of the city, which was terribly

convenient.

While we were there we visited the Van Gogh Museum. Van Gogh is a well-known painter and the

museum was a memorable experience. It has many of Van Gogh’s paintings on display and some of

them are incredibly moving. I don’t think Van Gogh was always happy and this shows in his work. I spent

ages looking at the paintings and I bought some very attractive prints before I left.

When Ii got home, I found some unusual frames for the prints and now they are hanging on my

bedroom wall. I think Amsterdam will always be a special place for me.

Maria

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Sample 6


You share a parking area with several neighbours and have recently started having problems. Write a

letter to be copied to all neighbours that share the parking area

• explaining the problems

• suggesting ways to help the situation

• proposing a possible meeting

Write at least 150 words

Model answer:

Dear Neighbours,

I am writing to inform you of a number of problems I have had recently concerning the communal

parking space. As you are aware, every resident in this block is allocated one space in the parking area.

Since the beginning of the month, however, I have on several occasions been unable to find a parking

space when I return home from work.

This must mean that either some residents are using the area for more than one car or that non-

residents are using the parking area. Also, I have noticed that the parking area is being used more and

more frequently as an area to dump unwanted furniture which is untidy and a potential health risk.

I am not blaming any individual for these problems but feel that as a group of residents we should act

together to avoid any repetition of these problems in the future perhaps by putting up much clearer

signs.

I would like to suggest that we meet to discuss these and other issues you may have on Monday March

18th at 8.00 pm. I am happy to host this meeting in my flat (Flat 1). Please call to let me know if you

would be interested in attending this meeting: 2775 483.

Best regards,

David Lee.

(151 words)

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Sample 7


An English-speaking friend has written to you to ask you how your IELTS studies are going.

Write a letter telling your friend how you are preparing for the test.

In your letter:

Say what progress you are making

Explain how you are preparing for the test

Say which section you are finding the most difficult.




Dear…

Model answer:

Dear Shelley,

Thanks for your reply. It’s good to hear from you again and I hope you are doing well. My preparation

for the IELTS is going OK but I don’t have enough time for studying. I am too tired in the evenings after a

full day in the office, so I have to rely on the weekends. I might need to book some private lessons if I

want a good score.

One thing I like to do is to read newspapers in English whilst I travel to work on the train. This is helping

me with my vocabulary and grammar. I also send out emails in English to practise for the writing

section. When I get home I like to watch British TV shows, with the subtitles turned off. My listening

skills have improved greatly since I started watching TV, which is more interesting than listening to

music.

The most difficult section for me is the writing section because my grammar is not good enough. I am

trying my best to learn the rules of English but some of the verbs seem to have more than one meaning

and this is causing me trouble. I hope to sit the test in about three months.

Best wishes,

Tina

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Sample 8


You work in a busy but poorly organised office and you are keen to be promoted. Your employer

needs to find a new supervisor for your department.

Write a letter to your employer. In the letter:

Ask to be considered for this job

Explain why you would be a suitable candidate

Outline the current problems and the changes you would like to make.


You do NOT need to write any addresses.


Dear Mr. Green

Model answer:

Dear Mr. Green

It is now three years since I joined this company and while I find my current position of administrative

assistant very rewarding, I feel I am ready to take on a more challenging role. I would therefore like to

apply for the position of office supervisor.

I have qualifications in business management and I have over ten years’ experience working in this

industry. I have also recently taken a course in team leadership. During my time here I have been

responsible for instigating several new systems. As you are aware, many of the operating systems we

currently use are outdated and are inadequate for dealing with the large number of customers we now

have. If I have given the opportunity to manage this area then I would plan to gradually update these

systems so that the office can run more smoothly.

I am enthusiastic and energetic employee and I feel that I am qualified for this role.

I would be grateful if you could consider me for this position.

Yours sincerely

(170words)

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Sample 9


You are part of a group of musicians who meet on Monday and Wednesday evenings to practise in the

community hall. You have been told, however, that it is no longer possible for the group to use the

hall.

Write a letter to the manager. In the letter:

Describe what the group does

Explain why the group is good for the community

Suggest alternative days and times for practice

Write at least 150 words

Model answer:

Dear Mr. Daniel,

I am writing on behalf of a group of musicians called The IPA Band; who have been using the community

hall for rehearsals. Until recently, they have been using the town hall to practise. However, they were

informed by the council secretary that they would no longer be allowed to do so, but were not given any

reason why.

The band has an upcoming set of gigs at the local community centre, which would bring in extra revenue

for the centres renovation fund, as they have decided to donate all profits from the gigs. If it is a case of

changing the days of practice, the group are happy to do so; Fridays and Thursdays would also be

suitable for them. I would welcome the chance to discuss the matter further with you.

I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Yours sincerely,

R. DAVIS

Manager The IPA Band’

(151 words)

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Sample 10


Finding it hard to remember important facts and figures? Improve your memory in 10 weeks with our

Memory Course. Places are limited and the course is available for only a short time.

Apply in writing to:

You see the above advertisement for a course designed to help improve your memory. Write a letter

to the organiser of the course. In the letter

Give some background information about yourself

Explain your own problems and why you would like to do the course

Enquire about the methods used on the course

Enquire about course fees and dates.

You should write at least 150 words. You do not need to write any addresses.

You should begin your letter

Dear Sir or Madam

Model answer:

Dear Sir or Madam

I am a student at Manchester University and I recently saw an advertisement for your course on

improving memory. I am a mature student as I began working when I finished high school, then married

and looked after three children. Having returned to studying after a break of ten years, I am finding it

quite difficult to remember important facts from my course. I find that I have to concentrate very hard

to memorise even small amounts of information. I have tried using acronyms to remind me of important

facts, but I still find it rather difficult. I have heard about visualisation and association techniques, but I

am not sure how to use these effectively and I would be very interested in learning other strategies.

I would be grateful if you could give me more detailed information about the methods that you use on

the course as well as the cost and dates of your courses. As I am a full time mother and a part-time

student I do not have a great deal of free time, so I hope you can offer flexible hours.

I think I could benefit a great deal from your course and look forward to your reply.

Yours faithfully

(208 words)

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Sample 11


You have a friend who lives in a city abroad. You have decided that you would like to apply to do a

course at one of the colleges in this city. Write to your friend explaining what you would like to do.

Tell him/her what type of work or studies you have been doing for the past few years and ask for

assistance in contacting an appropriate institution.




Dear …

Model answer:

Dear Alison,

Sorry I haven’t written for ages. I’ve been so busy over the last year and I never seem to have a minute

to myself.

I’d like to study Computer Science at university in US next year and I hope you can give me some advice.

I think I would prefer NYC because I know a few people from my visit last year.

This year I’m doing maths and physics at school and I hope to do well in my exams. However, I really

don’t know which university to apply to, so could you send me some information about different

colleges? Also can you find out what qualifications I need? For instance, as an overseas student, do I

have to take an English test?

I hope you don’t mind doing this for me. It is much better to get this information from someone who

lives in the country, so I hope to hear from you soon.

Many thanks,

Jim

(160 words)

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Sample 12


You are organizing a trip to the Black Mountains in West Wales for a group of students from

Canterbury in Kent, UK. Write to the manager of Student Hostel Services and explain when you want

to visit the Black Mountains, how long you will stay, how many students are in your party, and what

accommodations you will require.


Model answer:

To Whom It May Concern,

I am arranging a trip to your area. I am writing to seek accommodation in the Black Mountains for a

group of students from Canterbury.

We expect to be in the Black Mountains between July 4 and July 17. There are sixteen people in our

group, seven men and nine women. The seven men will accept dormitory accommodation, and the

women are happy to share rooms. We hope to keep our expenses as low as possible.

Could you please provide me with information regarding recreational services in the area? The group

will bring their own boots for bush-walking, but we are hoping to hire equipment for other sports, like

skiing. Some of our group will want to hire geological picks and other equipment, if possible. Could you

provide this? We also need to know about access to caves and other interesting geological sites in the

area.

I am looking forward to receiving information about the Student Hostel services and other facilities.

Your faithfully

(168 words)

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Sample 13


As an international student in Sweden, you have an account with a local bank. The monthly bank

transfer you receive from your parents has been delayed this month due to an error at your parents’

bank. Write a letter to your bank. In your letter: introduce yourself and ask for a loan, say why you

need the money and tell how you intend to pay back the money.



Dear Sir or Madam

Model answer:

Dear Sir or Madam

I am an international student from Indonesia studying Biology at Umea University, I have had my

account with you for about two years already, since I arrived in Sweden and have always kept this

account in credit. I am writing to you, as I would like to request a temporary loan so that I can meet my

expenses this month.

My parents send me a regular bank transfer of 1700 Euro every month. Until now, I have always

received this monthly bank transfer without any difficulty. Unfortunately, however, there has been an

error at the bank branch in Jakarta and so my parents have not been able to send me money this month.

This will be a problem for me because I have to pay rent to my landlord of 700 Euro per month which is

due next week. I also need money to cover general living expenses, such as transport to and from

college, etc. I estimate that I will be able to keep my living expenses down to 600 Euro this month in

order to save money.

I would therefore like to request a temporary loan of 500 Euro for a maximum period of one month until

my parents’ bank transfer arrives. Your assistance would be greatly appreciated. I look forward to

hearing from you soon.

Yours faithfully

Suhail Salamat

(219 words)

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Sample 14


Write a letter to your friend/family to describe an accident that has happened to you and ask for help.


Model answer:

Hi David and Jin!

This is just a short letter to let you know that I’m in hospital – but don’t worry, it’s nothing too serious,

just a broken ankle. It happened on Sunday evening when I was dancing. I jumped up and landed on the

side of my foot.

The doctors say it is a complicated break, so I have to stay here for a week for more x-rays. It’s a real

drag, I can tell you. I’ve got lots of books and magazines, but even so, being in hospital is dead boring!

I’m not allowed to leave my room, so I can’t go for a walk, and I don’t know what to do with my time.

Anyway, it’d be great to hear from you with any news. A funny letter would really cheer me up. Do you

think you could send me some magazines or something?

Hope to see you soon.

Lots of love,

Emily

(156 words)

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Sample 15


Write a letter to an electronics company requesting information about their latest model of digital

camera you have seen advertised.

Ask about the following items:

The price and availability of the new camera

The exact size and special functions of the set



Dear Sir or Madam

model answer:

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing to request information from you about your new Nikon D5200 digital camera that I saw

advertised on television last night, 8 February.

First of all, I would like to know exactly how much the Nikon D5200 costs. It would also be useful if you

could tell me where I can buy it, and when exactly it will be on sale. In addition, I need to know the LCD

screen size and resolution: is the screen larger than 3 inches wide, for example? I enjoy new technology

very much, so I am hopeful that your new product is going to have some feature that will set it apart

from all the other cameras on the market.

I would be very grateful if you could send me some more information about the new model, the Nikon

D5200, at your earliest convenience.

Yours faithfully

Janet Jenkins

(150 words)

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Sample 16


You have recently moved to a different house.

Write a letter to an English-speaking friend. In your letter

• explain why you have moved

• describe the new house

• invite your friend to come and visit.


You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows:

Dear……..,

Model answer:

Dear Thomas,

I am writing to let you know that at last we have moved to a bigger house. We just couldn’t go on living

in the two-bedroom bungalow now that the twins are growing up and the new baby has arrived. So we

started looking- and one thing led to another and finally here we are in our new home.

I’m sure you’ll like it. We have three bedrooms now, and a very modern bathroom and kitchen. The kids

are happy because there is much more space with the big living room and the garden outside. But

Daniel is the happiest of all because he doesn’t need to do much decorating.

Why don’t you come round this weekend and see what you think of our new place? We would all love to

see you and if the weather is good we can have a barbecue in the garden.

Our new address and phone number are below, so give us a call and let us know when to expect you.

Lots of love,

Peter

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Sample 17


Write a semi-formal letter to a person and invite her/ him to a celebratory event. Write three

paragraphs that focus on

Venue, date and time

Atmosphere of celebratory

Response to the invitation




Dear …

Model answer:

Dear Ms.Vernet,

I am writing to invite you to a reception to celebrate the 50th anniversary of The Foxtrot at 8.00 pm

February 10th. As a regular and valued customer of ours, we would very much like you and a guest to be

present on this special occasion for us.

We are hoping that around 200 people that we genuinely consider as friends of our club will be able to

attend. As well as a special buffet, you will be able to enjoy a number of performances from some of the

musicians that have helped to create the special atmosphere of evenings at The Foxtrot over the past

five decades.

Please bring the enclosed invitation to show at the door and please call or e-mail us if you have any

special requests for the evening. We look forward to sharing the special evening with you.

Best regards

Kathy Tayler

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Sample 18


Marina has just started a new course at college and her tutor has asked her to write him a letter

telling him something about herself.

You do NOT need to write any addresses.

Model answer:

Dear Tutor,

I have come to Brighton College from Singapore, Where I was a student for ten years. I have already

taken examinations in Singapore in English, Biology, Computer and Maths. My highest score was for

Computer: I got grade A.

When I was a student in Singapore I also had a part-time job in a shop. My uncle owns a supermarket

and so I helped him in the evenings. I worked there four nights a week and I think this was very good

experience for me.

At the weekends, I usually played volleyball with friends or, if the weather was bad, we used to go to the

theatre, which is very popular in Singapore. Because of my part-time job, I also spent a lot of time

studying at the weekend.

I haven’t been to many other places. My father took me to Thailand once. Three weeks after we

returned he also went to Malaysia and took the whole family.

This is a brief description of my background.

Best wishes,

Marina

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Sample 19

You have bought a new laptop computer and in a few days of purchase discovered a major flaw. Write

a letter to the company. In your letter

- introduce yourself

- explain the situation

- say what action you would like to company to take.

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing you to express my dissatisfaction with a laptop computer I bought in your store four days

ago.

As soon as I turned on the computer, I realized that Windows operating system was not installed in it,

although the offer said it was included. In addition, I chose a gray laptop and the one I received is black.

Moreover, the default language of the laptop is Japanese and I haven’t been able to change it to my

native language, which is English. To make matters worse, the memory specifications of this laptop are

not the same as the ones that I read in your catalog.

I definitely need this situation to be solved as soon as possible. I made the decision to buy the laptop at

your store, because of previous good recommendations some friends of mine gave me about your store.

However, after this experience, I feel deceived.

I would like you can send me the laptop I first chose at your store, including all the specifications were

shown in the offer. If I don’t get a quick response to my request, I hope a full refund of the payment I

already made.

Thanks in advance for your response.

Yours faithfully,

R.

This is a good letter, all it need is a little more attention as there are certain language inaccuracies (see

comments underlined in blue). Overall, this looks like a Band 7 letter.

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Sample 20


You have recently bought a Telephone with answer machine from an online shop. The web page said

that the answer machine shows you a list of who left a message so you can choose which to play first.

But after taking it home you find out that only the most recent call is kept in the calls list.

Write an e-mail letter to the store manager. In your e-mail:

say who you are;

explain the problem;

say what action you would like the store to take.




Dear Sir or Madam

Model answer:

Dear Sir/Madam,

My name is Colet Keneddy and I am a new internet customer. On Wednesday I purchased a Telephone

from your online shop with an answer machine, only the most recent call is kept in the calls list.

The web page stated that the answer machine was a new model capable that the answer machine

shows you a list of who left a message so you can choose which to play first. The user manual states

quite clearly that it will only play the most recent calls and it does not record all messages.

I wish to exchange the model for one that will list all messages. I do not wish to spend any more money

so the replacement model must not be more expensive. If you do not have a suitable replacement, then

please contact me by e-mail so I can return the item for a full refund, including postage and packaging

costs. Please let me know your postal address for returns.

I look forward to your early response by e-mail, and I trust that you will update your web page so that it

contains the correct information.

Yours faithfully

Colet Keneddy

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Sample 21


You are going on a month training programme to the UK and know that the head of the course would

like one of the participants to be the social events’ organiser.

Write a letter to the Training Organiser

expressing your interest in the role

requesting more information about it

explaining what experience you have


Model answer:

Dear Mr.Coleman,

I am one of the trainees due to attend the ‘customer care’ course in June and I am writing to tell you my

interest in being the social events’ organiser for the group.

Could you please send me a bit more information about the size and background of the group and give

me a clue about the facilities at the training venue and some stuff there is to see and do in the local

area. From the programme I have got, it seems that trainees will be free three evenings in the week and

after 1.00 pm on Saturdays at the weekend.

I have some experience of acting in this role as we often run courses here for overseas colleagues and in

the past I have been asked to keep myself busy with the social programme: trips, nights-out, group

competitions etc. This is a role that I absolutely love.

Please drop me a line if you want any further information or would like me to provide you with the

names of referees.

I look forward to hearing from you right away.

Best regards,

Mark Key

Client Advisor

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Sample 22

You are organizing an executive event for the company you work for.

Task: Write a letter to the person in charge of a venue that you are considering for the event and ask

for detailed information regarding dates, services and costs.

Dear Sir,

I am writing to ask for information about organizing an executive event at your venue.

My name is Marcio, I work for a multinational company, and we need to prepare an event that will be held on December 17. I

would like to obtain the below information :

1. How many people can your club support?

2. What kind of food to you serve?

3. Is there any special service for disabled people?

4. What time can we start the event?

5. Do you have any kind of “animation service” to offer?

6. How much do you charge for your services?

7. Do you offer any transportation?

8. Is there anything else included in your services ?

I need to receive this information before October, because I need to prepare the department in charge of the event and invite

the participants. You can send me this information via fax, to the number +55 (21) 3422-9559, or email me at :

[email protected]. I am confident that your company will provide us with the best type of service we need, based on

abundance of good reviews about your company.

Yours faithfully,

Marcio Marinho

This is a good letter. It covers the task, is correctly structured, and you used the appropriate style and

vocabulary. There are some sentences that need a change in structure (see comments underlined in

blue) and there are also repetitions of the same word, which should be avoided. Overall, this looks

like a Band 6.5 – 7 letter.

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Sample 23

You migrated to another country. Write a letter to your friend to describe your present life and tell

him/her why you chose this country.

Dear Linda,

I’m sorry I haven’t been writing to you for such a long time. I am writing to inform you that I have

migrated to Perth, Australia. My family and I arrived in Perth on the 03/04 and we have finally settled

down.

We migrated to Perth because my sisters and their families have also migrated there three years ago.

We have planned to join them in Perth and also did this for the children’s education and their future as

well.

We have just settled in our new house and the kids are enjoying the pool almost every day. They have

been attending a public school and have made quite a lot of friends. The people here are very friendly

and helpful. John has also found a job near the city. The working environment here according to John is

very different from Malaysia. As for me, I am a full time housewife, enjoying the morning coffee with the

newspaper.

Do let me know when you plan to visit Perth and you are always welcome to stay at my new house.

With love,

Sharon.

This is a good letter. It has the correct structure, the task is covered, the sentences are nicely built and

it leaves a good impression because of the fluency of the language. See comments underlined in blue

for minor corrections. Overall, this looks like a band 7 letter.

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Sample 24

You would like to participate in a work-related seminar in another country.

Task: Write a letter to the person in charge of the seminar and ask for detailed information regarding

the dates, program, accommodation and cost.

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing to ask for information about the seminar that you are conducting during the next week.

I am an electronics wholesale dealer in Pakistan and I am interested to take part in this work-related

seminar. I think that it would be very beneficial for me to see the latest electronic appliances and have

an excellent opportunity to make contacts with different companies. Therefore, I need to get some

information in detail such as the total period of time your seminar takes and the leaflets of different

scheduled programs. Beside this, I have a plan to come with my two staff members so what would be

the arrangements of accommodation and total expenditure, which you have estimated for each person.

You could send the above-mentioned information to my e-mail address. I would like to receive it as soon

as possible because of adequate preparation before the departure.

I am looking forward to hearing from you.

Yours faithfully,

Athar Nafees

This is a good letter. It covers the task, the information is organized well and each paragraph covers all

the necessary details. There are some inaccuracies (see suggested changes in the comments

underlined in blue). Overall, this looks like a Band 7 letter.

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Sample 25

You have bought a new mobile phone and in a few days after purchase it has stopped working. You

spoke to the company representative a week ago but the phone has still not been repaired.

Write a letter to the company. In your letter

- introduce yourself

- explain the situation

- say what action you would like to company to take.

Dear Sir/ Madam,

I am writing to inform you about the faulty mobile phone that I have purchased in your store.

I am Christine B., I am a regular customer of your company. On the 10th of March, I bought a brand new

Nokia XYZ mobile. However, upon one week of using it, problems started to appear. The flash of the

camera is no longer working. Also, the monitor is getting blurry which makes it difficult for me to see the

SMS messages clearly. I was very surprised to discover such problems in quite an expensive model.

Naturally, I returned the mobile phone in your store to be replaced with a new one. One of your sales

staff told me that they will send it to my home address within one week. However, two weeks have

passed without me receiving any replacement. I am very upset for your poor service.

In this regard, I insist on getting a refund of my full payment if the replacement will not arrive within one

more week.

Yours faithfully,

Christine B.

This is a very good letter. The structure of paragraphs and sentences, grammar, vocabulary, the length

of the letter – everything is in order. There are some minor corrections (see comments underlined in

blue). Otherwise, this looks like a Band 7 letter.

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Sample 26

You rented a car from a Car Rental Company. The air conditioner has stopped working. You phoned the company a week ago but it still has not been repaired.

Write a letter to the company. In your letter - introduce yourself - explain the situation - say what action you would like to company to take.

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing to complain about the air conditioner in my car, which Itook on rent from your company for two weeks. Unfortunately, it has stopped working.

I rented Mercedes Benz 8 days ago. My customer number is 1230. Actually, what happened -I was on my way from Jacksonville to Miami, although the atmosphere temperature was cooler, suddenly a sound came from the engine. At first, I thought that the engine belt is broken and I may not be able to drive the car further. However, when I felt no air coming from the air conditioner, I realized it has stopped working.

Naturally, when I got back home I immediately contacted your customer care center and registered

my complaint. They issued me a complaint number 234343 and said that they will send a technician at my house within 2 to 3 business days to get it repaired. Almost one week has passed since I called, but still it is not being repaired.

I am not at all satisfied with your customer service. In case you can’t resolve my problem within 2

business days after the receipt of this letter, I want a complete refund of the car rental payment which I made in advance, that is $200.

Yours faithfully, Hasnain Siraj

This is a good letter. It has the right structure, covers the task, the paragraphs are connected together by linking words and the sentences are well-structured. The grammar needs some attention, especially the prepositions and the way you use tenses (see comments underlined in blue). Overall, this looks like a Band 6.5 – 7 letter.

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Sample 27

Write a letter to a bus company saying you have left something valuable on the bus and tell them

what to do if they find it.

Dear Sir/Madam,

The reason I am writing this letter to you is because I have left my bag in your bus which I took. It was on

Tuesday 5th of August at around 3:00pm. The bus station that I board the bus was at Jalan Pinang (bus

no 55) and I got down at Jalan Tujuan.

I have tried to locate the bus and the driver but was unable too. It is a brown bag with some samples of

custom-made jewelry of my company. There were 165 pcs of it in the bag. It’s the last set of samples

that I have. Without the samples it is impossible for us to show to our customers.

If you have found it could you please call me on 03 5192 6541 or email me at [email protected] and I

will arrange a pick-up from your office.

Looking forward to hearing from you.

Yours faithfully

S. Chua

This letter needs some work. It covers the task and has the right structure. However the structure of

the sentences needs some attention as well as the accuracy of expressions (see comments underlined

in blue for more details). Overall, this looks like a Band 6.5 letter.

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Sample 28

You successfully passed a job interview. You are expected to start on November 15, but you will not be available on that date.

Task: Write a letter to your new boss, explaining your situation, expressing your concern and suggesting solutions.

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing to inform you that I won’t be able to start work on November 15, as agreed during my recent interview with you.

The reason that I can’t start my work was because my mother hasfell down the stairs yesterday. As, I

am the only daughter and there are no other relatives that are able to look after my mother, I have no choise but to go back to look after her. According to the doctors it will take about two weeks for her to be able to walk and take care of herself again.

I apologize for all the inconvenience and I truly belived that you need me to be at work on that day for the project that is scheduled to be completed three weeks later. I am able to work for home and completed the project as mention. I will also report to you through e-mail and if there is a problem, I will call and inform you along the way.

Once again, I’m very sorry for the inconvenience and thank you for your understanding.

Yours faithfully, S. Chua.

This is a good letter. It covers the task, has a good structure, the paragraphs are coherent. There are several grammatical errors (see comments underlined in blue) and a poorly structured sentence that needs improvement (it starts with “I apologize for all the

inconvenience”). Overall, this looks like a band 6.5 letter – some improvement to grammar could take it to Band 7.

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Sample 29

Dear Sir/Madam,

I’m writing this letter to request more information about a scholarship/Finance assistance offered by your College.

I was awaiting in anticipation to enroll next year for the much coveted Diploma in English, but with unfortunate circumstance, I found myself in a financial difficulty.

I would appreciate it if you could steer me to the right path for scholarships information or if the college will be able to give me financial assistance.

My certificate in Secondary education shows above average grades. I have worked in a voluntary

position on weekends teaching English to young foreign kids. I do have the means to pay back if a loan was approved by the college. My employer will vouch for my employment and provide you with a proof of my earnings. He could also arrange a monthly deduction from my salary to your bank account.

I believe I have what it takes and I trust you would consider my request, by giving me the opportunity to continue my study.

Looking forward to hearing from you soon.

Yours Faithfully, M Munsamy

This is a good letter. It has the right structure, covers the task, shows a good command of the English language, the sentences range in complexity, the grammar and spelling are fine. Some minor corrections were made, see comments. Overall, this looks like a Band 7 letter.

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Sample 30

You stayed at your friends’ house when you participated in a business seminar in Australia. You left a file with important documents in your room. Task: Write a letter to your friend, describing the file and ask him/her to return it to you by post.

My dearest Philip,

I am sorry I am writing only now. Firstly, I would like to thank you for all the attention and support you gave me while I was in Sydney. Things like that are priceless and all I can give you is my gratitude. I expect you and Ingrid to come to Rio soon, so that I try to

somehow propitiate equally joyful moments as those you propitiated to me. I am writing also, because of the fact that I forgot a very important document in the room where I stayed at your house.

The document is a signed contract and was the most important reason for my trip to Australia, after

the business seminar I attended. You certainly can imagine how desperate I have been in the last days looking for this document in my luggage. I could not find it anywhere and now I am sure I left it in your house.

Please let me know if you find it, and post it with express delivery as soon as possible. I will pay for the expense; just let me know what is your bank, account and branch numbers.

With best wishes, Leonardo

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Sample 31

You successfully passed a job interview. You are expected to start on November 15, but you will not be available on that date. Task: Write a letter to your new boss, explaining your situation, expressing your concern and suggesting a solution.

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am Leonardo Gomes and I have recently passed a job interview for the Software Engineer position at the Software Infrastructure group. I was expected to start on November 15, as agreed, and am writing because, unfortunately, I will not be able to present myself on that date.

During the interview I estimated fifteen days as the amount of time needed for me to finish my activities at my current job and start at your company, but due to fact that I got sick for the last whole week and was not able to work, I could not finish my tasks and will need another week to do so.

If necessary, I can give you a copy of a letter from my doctor informing that I had to stay at home and under medical care during that week.

I sincerely apologize for the inconvenience and hope this will not affect our relationship. If I am

expected to present any other form of proof or talk to someone else in the company, please let me know.

Faithfully yours, Leonardo

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Sample 32

You and your family are planning to spend a weekend at a seaside hotel.

Task: Write a letter to the hotel making the arrangements. Let them know when you will be arriving and leaving, what type of rooms you would like, and ask them how much the weekend will cost. Also enquire about activities and places of interest near the hotel.

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing this letter to make arrangements for the stay during the weekend at your hotel and to get more information on the places of interest and different activities nearby.

I will be arriving with my parents and wife to celebrate my parents wedding anniversary on the 4th of

July which will be on Saturday morning, and leaving on the 7th of July afternoon. I am looking to book double-rooms with the attached bathroom for more privacy and convenience. I would love to have at least one bedroom with the balcony or seaside view for my parents. I would also appreciate if you could provide me with the list of activities that we can take part in during our stay for more fun and adventure. I prefer the locations to be nearby the hotel as we are not familiar with the place.

Furthermore, I would also like to know if there are any historical sites or market nearby where we can explore more about the place’s history and local culture.

You could send me the detailed information through email or fax no later than the 4th of July with the total cost of stay during the weekend.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Yours faithfully, A.G.

The student has addressed all the parts of the task statement fairly well. The information is organized nicely and conveyed coherently. The grammar and sentence formation are mostly

fine, with only minor improvements needed. The range of vocabulary is adequate for the requirements of the task response. Overall, this letter is a very good one, and seems worthy of Band 8.

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Sample 33

Your friend is coming over to stay with you. However, you will be away on vacation for a month. Write him/her a letter and say:

- How to get the keys to your flat - How to operate the equipment in the flat, and - Suggest a few places of interest to visit

Dear Susan,

Hope this finds you well. As I wrote to you in my previous letter, I am unable to cancel the finalised trip visit my parents. But, soon after you arrive in Melbourne, contact Jessie, a good friend of mine on 0425680256. She offered her help to pick you up from the airport and you can collect the key from her.

I must say that sometimes, the hot water geezer turns off automatically so, you might have to make sure it is switched on before having a shower. Also, the gas heater fixed in the lounge does not work, but you can use the oil heater in my bed room instead.

If you have time you might enjoy visiting the Aquarium, the Queen Victoria Market and the Botanical Gardens as these places are not that far from where I live. I hope you are happy with this arrangement, but if you need more help or information please let me know.

Looking forward to hear from you.

With love,

Amber.

All the requirements of the task were covered fairly well. The bullet points were mentioned, emphasized and illustrated in a suitable and logical way. The tone of this letter needs to be less formal. The ideas are presented in a logical order and all aspects of cohesion are taken care of well. The paragraphing is handled suitably and appropriately. Some sophisticated words/expressions are used in a clever way, with only occasional errors in word

choice/expression choice. Most sentences are free of errors. Overall, seems worthy of Band 8.

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Sample 34

You play sport (e.g. football) for a local team. You recently heard that a player in your team is in a hospital. Write a letter to your team-mate. In your letter:

- Say how you feel about the news - Ask about the treatment in the hospital - Suggest some ways of cheering him/her up

Dear John,

I’m sorry to hear that you’ve fallen and fractured your leg. It is extremely unfortunate that you had this accident, especially when we are having a big match next week.

I understand that you’re admitted in St. John’s Hospital and will be there for a week. I hope you’re taken care well at the hospital. Although there had been some complaints about St. John’s in the past, I heard they have improved a lot. Did you get to consult their chief orthopaedician? His specialty is in sports medicine and he could probably suggest some specific treatments that will help you.

And let me share some good news with you. Our university has granted sports scholarship for your studies. I heard it from our coach and you should be getting a letter shortly. So it is not all gloom!

Do let me know if you need any help. I will visit you at the hospital next week. Till then, bye.

Regards,

Prasad

This letter covers the requirements of the task, all the bullet points are addressed sufficiently. The information and ideas are presented logically, and the paragraphing is appropriate. Although there are some instances of poor word choice and grammar, most of the sentences are error-free. It is best to avoid using contractions (e.g. you’re, we’re) in IELTS letters. Overall, seems worthy of Band 8.

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Sample 35

You have decided to leave your current employment. Write a letter to your employer. Include the following in your letter:

- Explain why you are writing - Explain why you have decided to leave the company - Tell your employer what you plan to do after leaving your present employment

Dear Human Resource,

I am writing this letter in regards of terminating my contract with the organization as a Guest Service Agent. The employment contract has stated a requirement of two weeks’ notice. Therefore, my last day of employment will be on 25th of May 2012.

The decision made was due to personal reasons, as my family and I will be migrating to Singapore. Recently my husband has been offered a managerial position in a five star hotel, which we thought would be a better prospect for his career.

Once my family and I have settled down in Singapore, I plan to look for a “work at home” job. This allows me to have flexibility with my time and would be able to take care of my children too. Leaving the company is a great loss for me as I have learnt a lot and was given opportunities to grow.

Finally, I would like to thank you for the guidance provided during the period of my employment.

Yours sincerely,

Eve

This letter covers the requirements of the task, all the bullet points are addressed sufficiently. The information and ideas are presented logically, and the paragraphing is appropriate. Although there are some instances of poor word choice and grammar, most of the sentences are error-free. Overall, seems worthy of Band 8.

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Sample 36

A family member is coming to stay with you. He/she will be arriving by train in the morning, but you

won’t be home until the evening. Write a letter to your relative. In your letter:

- explain the arrangements you have made for them to get keys and enter the house

- tell your relative how to get from the train station to your house

- say when you will be home and suggest what you could do together that evening

Dear Tanya,

How are you? I hope your journey was comfortable. I have an appointment with my dentist at 4 pm

today, this is why I will not be at home when you will reach. However, I have left the keys with Mr.

Sharma at house #14. You can take the keys from him and enter the house. I have made some Chicken

Biriyani for you and arranged the guest room upstairs so that you can take rest.

When you arrive, your train will stop at the Central railway station. You need to take the exit towards

Roma Street. Once you come out of the station, you need to turn right and walk 100 metres. You will

find the bus stop number 58 on the opposite side of the road. You need to catch bus number 333 and

get down at Robertson Stop. My address is: #27, Fleetwood St, Macgregor.

I will be home by 5:30 pm, and so will be Sam and Harry as well. We have planned to watch “The Dark

Knight” at home. I will make smoked salmon with chicken salad and we can have some wine with the

dinner as well. See you soon.

Lovingly Yours

Tanay

This letter covers the requirements of the task; all the bullet points are addressed sufficiently. The

information and ideas are presented logically, and the paragraphing is appropriate. The use of

vocabulary can be improved. Most of the sentences are error-free with only a few inappropriate

words used. Overall, seems good enough for Band 8.

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Your neighbours have a dog that is noisy at night. You can’t sleep. Write a letter to your neighbours. In

your letter:

- describe the problem with the dog

- explain why it is important for you to sleep

- outline what your neighbours could do about the situation.

Dear Mr. Brown and Mrs. Brown,

I am writing to you to bring to your attention a problem that i have been having with your dog at night.

As you may already be aware of, your dog started making small detours at night around the

neighborhood, digging holes in the gardens and often making loud noises. I was awoken by your dog’s

barks several times lately, and I had even consulted a doctor and had been prescribed some sleeping

pills.

This wouldn’t have been as big of a problem for me if I wasn’t in the middle of my exams, but since I am,

it is crucial for me to take good rest and sleep during the right hours; I have morning exams to wake up

to.

I will therefore be grateful if you could have your dog looked after by another member of your family

away from this neighborhood, even if only until my exams are over, which will be in about three weeks’

time.

Thank you for taking time to read this letter, I hope to hear back from you with good news.

Yours sincerely,

Jeongsup Byun

This is a good letter on all accounts, except perhaps some inaccurate word choice and verb forms

(bring the mouse over the words in blue to see suggested corrections). Such letter could be awarded

Band 8 in a real IELTS exam.

Sample 37

Sample 38

Write a letter to an English-speaking friend. In your letter - explain why you changed jobs - describe your new job - tell him/her your other news

Dear John,

I am writing to let you know that I finally got a Software Engineer position in Google. I am so happy to share this news with you. As I told you earlier, my previous job was so bored to me. I kept working on fixing uncountable bugs of an existing system. Thus I started seeking new job opportunities 2 months ago.

Since I walked in Google’s office during my first interview, I immediately knew that this was my ideal

work place. My major responsibility is tuning search results on several Google’s products. The most

exciting thing is that my supervisor is a pioneer in this area around the world. I believe that I can get enormous cutting-edge knowledge from him.

Furthermore, I have bought a new house near my office. I sincerely invite you to come to visit next month if you are free at that point of time.

With best wishes,

Michael

This letter covers the task prompt fully. It has the right structure and its level of formality

is suitable for a personal letter. The vocabulary and sentence structure is fine. The letter

could have achieved a higher band score if it wasn’t for the errors (mouse over the words in blue will show suggested corrections). Seems worthy of Band 8.

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Sample 39

You have a pen friend living in another country and he/she is curious about the major news items in

your country.

Dear Amy,

How are you? Long time no letters from you. I remember in the last letter you had mentioned about

current affairs in India,___. Reserve Bank of India The Reserve Bank of India has increased REPO rate by

.50 basis points, which has led to an increase in home loans’ rates.

Rain in INDIA is too heavy this year same as from the past two years. Two years back Mumbai was

flooded and all the normal life was halted for 1 – 2 days.

Our President Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalama, have finished his tenure on 21st of July this year. Now we have

Mrs. Patil as our new and First lady President in the Indian history. She has political background whereas

Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalama didn’t have.

After 14 years, people behind the Mumbai bomb blast in 1993 are finally being punished. Some are

being sentenced to death and some have to serve a long time in prison.

Take care. Be in Touch.

This letter is not bad. It has the right structure (apart from the first paragraph, last sentence of which

should be in the second paragraph) and covers the task, the vocabulary and the structure of sentences

are fine. The logical connection of paragraphs needs some work, because it seems as though you are

jumping from issue to issue, instead of linking them smoothly.

Add some more personal touch in the last paragraph; ask how they are doing or what are their news.

Don’t forget to sign your name in the end. See comments for detailed corrections. Overall, this looks

like a Band 6.5 letter.

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Task 1 GT Samples

Documents

Transcript of Task 1 GT Samples