Letter Writing Steps - Task 1 {GT)

81

IELTS
Writing Task 1
(General Training)

Writing Steps:

1 Analyse the question: Underline the keywords; address the task. Your letter must cover all
the information required by the bullet points. Read the task carefully and decide whether to wri te
a formal or informal letter

2 Plan the answer: Make some quick notes {Pre-wri ting/Crit ical thin king/Brainst orming) .
Use Lists, Clustering diagrams (Bubble diagrams, Mindmaps, Idea webs, Spidergrams),
Tree diagrams (Arrow diagrams), Fishbone diagrams, Venn diagrams and T-diagrams
for generating and classifying ideas. Divide the essay into paragraphs appropriately.

Critical thinking formats (Brainstorming)

Lists Clustering Tree diagrams Venn diagrams T diagrams Fishbone
r-·- I'"'·- diagrams diagrams

,·-·-· ,··-·- ~ GIB- ffi- -

*
~~<]
- l)iff• - s,..... l>tff•- ~

Writing Task 1:
You are unhappy about a plan to make your local airport bigger and increase the number offlights.
You live near the airport. Write a letter to your local newspaper. In your letter
• explain where you live
• describe the problem
• give reasons why you do not want this development.

Writing Task 1 (Sample plan)

Iintroj I am writing In connection with your article ... dated ... I live in •.• located in ...
The first problem ls •.•nolse pollution •.• distvrbing .•.
[aoc1y_j Another serious problem .. . overcrowding ...too many people, traffic ... no parking space ...

Finally, .•• No recreational facilities & parks in this area ...

lconclusi;,, These problems are serious ••. please reflect these problems .•.

3 Write the answer: 'SSS Technique' State Support Summarise

Use a range of relevant vocabulary, sentence types and linking words.

Work out how many lines 150 words are in your handwriting, e.g. if you write about 10 words
per line, then you will need to produce at least 15 lines. Obviously, you need to write more to
address the task but it is very important to keep your letter relevant.

4 Check the answer; proofread

Leave time at the end to check your answer for errors in grammar, spelling and punctuation.
 82 Letter Writing Formats & Tone - Task 1

Letter Writing Formats

..,.. Blocked style

Each line is vertically aligned with the one above

Blocked style
~ ...

.,.. Indented style

The first sentence of a paragraph is indented so that th e reader will know that a new subject - or a
different aspect of the same subject-is being dealt with. The writer does this by leaving a blank space at
the beginning of the paragraph.

Indented style
~ -..

Tone & Register & Diction

The level and style of a piece of writing that is usually appropriate to th e situation that it is used in.
You need to use appropriate language in your letter to give it the right tone- formal, neutral or informal
..,.. Formal
..,.. Semi- formal
..,.. Informal

Formal Informal
longer sentences shorter sentences
polite phrases no especia lly polite phrases
prefabricated phrases no especially prefabricated phrases
more heavily structured more loosely structured
formal and ceremonial manner relaxed, conversational and chatty style
impersonal tone personal tone
full verb forms shortened verb forms
include pronouns sometimes leave out pronouns (ellipsis)
passive verbs active verbs
single-word verbs phrasal verbs
avoidance of slang some slang included
standard punctuation sometimes emoticons and smile ys
Letter Structure - Task 1 (GT) 83

Letter Structure
!) Introduction (Introductory/Lead-in/Opening Paragraph) About 20-30 words

Dear S ir or Madam, I Mr ..., /Mrs .... / Miss ... , I Dr ..., I Prof..., / To whom it may concern, ... ( Salutation)

• Formal letters: !Purpose (Orientation)+ Details!

I am writing to complain about the product that I purchased ...+ Date of purchase .. ./Receipt no .. ./ Item no .. ./ Model...

• Semi-formal / Informal letters: !Greeting+ Purpose (Orientation)+ Details!

I hope you're well + The reason that I'm writing is to invite you... + Occasion... / Date .. ./Time .. ./Location

!) Body About 110-130 words

Developing the subject, and dealing with the additional objectives of the letter.
Each point should be presented in a separate paragraph containing a
clear topic sentence supported b y examples and/ or justification.

Main Fundions & Topics

friendships & goodwill lost items dissatisfaction & complaints
seasonal wishes sympathy corrective measures
tha nk you condolence housing
gifts regrets expression of needs
praise course application assistance
congratulations assignment extension follow-up
get-well wishes job application finance & bank related
invitations recommendations buying & selling & charqing
enquires reservations borrowinq
quotations cancellations holidays
apologies missed appointments occasions
In W riting Task 1, a body para graph tends to move from general (Topic sentence) to specific (Evidence); Deductive approach

Dedudive approach Inductive approach

w
GENERAL SPECIFIC

SPECIFIC
~
GENERAL
-
'Y Paragraph Strudure '
Topic sentence/ Main idea ( the sentence that contains the main idea of a paragraph)
Supporting ideas/ . . . Sub-supporting ideas .. . (supporting the main idea )
Concrete evidence (tangible examples, statistics, quotes, observations, experiences and a necdotes)
Summary sentence (summarising the main idea)/ Bridging sentence (leading into the next paragraph) [optional]

!) Conclusion (Closing paragraph) About 20-30 words

I (am) look(ing) forward t o seeing you ( Complimentary close/ Stock phrase)

Best wis hes , ( fo llowed by a comma) ( Sign off phrase)

?,ol...,., ~ (Signature block)

J . Smith ( Identification initials)
( if any) Enclosed is a copy of the receipt ( Enclosure notation)
 Letter Language - Task 1 (GT}
84

Greeting & NeY!s

HI there! Long time no see! I How are things with you?/ What's up? Thanks for your kind letter and sorry for not replying sooner

Sorry I haven't been in touch for such a long time. I had a very busy week Thanks for the lovely dinner and for sharing your evening wit h me

What a surprise it was to get a letter from you. I've missed you a lot I hope this letter finds you well .. . I can't wait to get back home

Sorry I haven't written for a while/ l always t hink very highly of you Hi buddy! Hope everything is fine and you are doing well

Sorry It's taken me so long to write... How's your mother ? l s she better? ...I've been doing some exams, so I've been studying all the time

Thanks for your kind letter...My mum 's still recovering from her operation BTW ( By t he way), falling an exam is not the end of the world!

It wa s a great pleasure to receive your letter/ I have vivid m emories of... I d id well on my exams, ... totally awesome... ; a great success!

Sorry I haven't written for ages. What have you been up to? How nice it was t o hear from you ... Great ; on t he top of the wor1dl

Sorry I haven't been in touch for a long time. I've missed you so much Hey dude! Hope you are fine ...and glad ; as happy as a lark!

I'm back at home now... Hope you're having a great day How are you doing ? Hope you're fine ... as sound as a bell!

It seems like ages since we've done somethin g fun t ogether Glad to hear t hat... I'm so happy; walking on air! Thoroughly enjoying myself

Hope you are enjoying a fine summer. I've heard ...That's great Great ! ... ; over t he moon! Enjoying myself Immensely

Delighted to hear that you will be arriving in ... When can we meet up? Thanks for the pies. Wow! You look like a million dollars/bucks!

You can't Imagine how excited l was when ... You've been a great help How are you getting on with your new Job? ... I 'm fine; alive and kicking !

It 's been a while since we talked and quite a lot has happened l can 't tell you how thrilled l am ... It's such a plum Job. It rocks!

It's been ages since I 've heard from you. Hope you're enjoying your lessons Hi ...My new Job Is such a pain ...! have to grin and bear it . Still surviving!

l hope things are going better. Have you had any news of ... ? It 's not much of a Job; chicken feed! Daily bread; can't complain!

It's been an age since we've seen each other. Did you have a nice time? How are your folks?... I've had a so-so sort of week

Nice to hear from you after such a long time. Sorry, I didn't get (a )round t o visiting you How's life t reating you? ... l wa s so exited when I heard...

Thank you for... The photos bri ng back lots of good memories ... and I shared some really good times ...; full of the Joys of spring

How's it going? Hope you will soon settle down In your new Job/ house The party wa s a blast! we had a wild t ime; really enjoyable

What a surprise! ... Special fri ends l ike you are one in a million! How's everything with you ? ... Fine; in high spirit s; ... as fit as a fiddle!

Good news
I thought yw might llke to know that ... / I wanted to be the flrst person to let you know I am pleased I delighted to Inform you that..J I have the honour of lnfom,lng you about..

I t's certa inly a great pleasure t o ~t you know .J Guess what! ... LOLI (Laugh-Out- Loud ) I 've oot some big news to tell you/ You 11 be very glad to hear that-.. You11 be thrilled ...

l have the most wonderfu l news... l could hard ly wait to tell you about... It may Interest you to kn ow that .. ./ Did I tell you about ... 7 You'll never believe ...

Congratulations
I hope this day i s as special as you are. Happy Mother's Day ! Congratutatlons on reaching th is Important milestone/ It was a nice surprise to hear...

I w,sh you all the best that t his holiday season has to offer I hope your...ls bnght with the love and Joy of this special time of the year

I warted to offer m y congratul at ions on .. / ... Is warm, fi lled with the love of your fam ily I just heard about your triumph in ..., and wanted to congratulate you

1 am heartily glad abovt.. JJwas pleased to hear.. JCongratulations and best wishes on Don't forget to do something special to celebrate this fabulous achlevemenVhuge honour

It 's a very special occasion .J Please accept my( warmest/ heartiest) congrat'Utatton s! t was pleasantly surprised to hear .J Well done !. .. I Great to le.am about .../Th at's coot•

Invitations
t am proud to announce. We hope to see you at RSVP ./We'd hke to have you over for I do hope you'll be able to make it/ come and visiL ../ Could you come over to ...?

You can come along at any t ime.. ./ All you need to do is to say ' ye s' We thought we'd have a get-together In the near future/ We will be celebrating a party ..

Would you l et me know If you can come...?/ I do hope you can come Please let me know If you'd like to Join us I Could you attend our ceremony?

Accepting invitations
It is with great pleasure to accept.../ I am sincerely happy to join... We would take great pleasure In attending.. ./111 be m ore than grateful to...

Sure/For sure/ Certainly/ By all means/ Not hing coul d have made me so happy I'll be delighted to come/attend .. ./ It is a g reat honour to attend ...

What a great surpnse' lt11 be really great to see you all again/ That sounds like fun Wi t h pleasure. Thank you for Inviting me/ I am delighted to accept...

I 'd be glad to.. / 111 be more than happy to come ...Hope you can blow out all the candles! Thank you for your invitation/ Thank you for inviting me/ I'd love t o come.

Declining invitations
I'm really disappointed that I can't come/ I am afraid I can't come I am unable to attend .. but wish you every happiness for the day

Sorry for t urning down/ declining your invit ation Regrettably, I am unable t o accept your kind invit ati on

It's very kind of you but.../ I'm sorry, I won't be able to make it Wha t a shamel/ What a pity!/lt's a pity that I can't come... I wish I could...
 Letter Language - Task 1 (GT)
85

Appreciation
Thank you for your Immedi ate attention to...{Tha nk you again for your continued support Allow me to find some way to proper1y thank you for everything you have done for me

I am wri ting to thank you for.../ It was incredibly th oughtful o f you to .. You 're always great about pitching in when I need a hand . Thank you

Thank you again for your willingness/assistance/time/consideration Thank you very much for.. ./ I'll do everything In my power to make It up to you

Thank you for your particular attention/ Thank you for your co·operation In this matter Than ks a million. You are truly the most wonderful person in the worl d

Thanking you for your assistance in advance/ Thank you for your outstanding service Thank you. Hope you'll let me know if I can ever ret urn the favour

I am most grateful to you for your warm hospitality/ l warmly appreciate your hospitality I am extremely grateful for ... ! really appreciate your kindness/ I am In your debt

Thank you for su pporting me during such a tough time. I was really at my wits end! Thank you kindly In ad vance/ Please accept our warmest t hanks

Thanks for ... It is thoughtful of you to.../ I feel a deep sense of gratitude to you I can 't thank enough for such a wonderful party that you gave/ ...wa s admirable

Than ks for helping me out. I'll return the favour some time/ Just a note to thank you... Many thanks for your support/ Your advice was a big help. I owe you o ne

l would like to express my gratitude to .../ In fact, no words can express my gratitude I don't know what I would ha ve done without yo u and your kind assistance

Thank you for remembering my ... You have a real knack for pidclng out such a great gift: It was very nlce of you t0-../1 am rea lly thankful / How can I ever than k you enough for . .?

I am deeply Indebted.. ./ I owe you a great debt of gratitude/ I'm most grateful We would like to ex press our sincere than ks for.../ I gratefully acknowledge my thanks...

I would appreciate any comments you might have .. / I 'm lost for words. . I appreciate It Once again, I would like to thank you .../ Thi s is to thank you again for ...

I t was most kind of you t o ... / Please accept my heartfelt thanks Thank you for everything. I cou nt myself among the very lucky to h ave a friend llke you .

Please accept my sincere appreciation for .. ./l 'd like to thank you very much for ... I wanted to take a moment to thank you for .. J Give my thanks to... / Say 'thank you' to...

satisfaction (Adjectives)
encou raglng/ pleaslng/promlslng/ rewardlng/fulfllllng/ pleasu ra ble/de4 ightful/pleasant brill la n[/superb/m arveUous/ad mlrable/top-notch/spectacula r/charmlng/excltlng/thrilling

lovely/sparldlng/stunnlng/beautiful/exhllarattng/lnsplrlng/9rlppln9/enthrallln9/refreshln9 amazing/smashlng/ absorblng/ dazzlin g/awesome/breathtaklng/unbellevable/terrific

fantastlc/fabulous/excellent/lncredlble/cool/sensatlonal/ astonlshtng/astound fng/ relaxlng lmpressive/magnlficent/outstandlng/ perfect/appeallng/tremendous/fascinatlng/ amuslng

Likes
I like/love/enjoy ... It would make sense to me I'm quite fascinated by ... I'm crazy/mad about... ... really appeals to me

I'm (very/dee ply) Interested In My main Interest is.. J I adore ... .. .Interests/ fascinates me a lot. I am always attracted by ... I am a dedicated fan of...

I'm fond of... /I'd be willing to.. I have a particu lar fondness for... I'm really keen on/ eager to... I 'm enthusiastic about... ... has always intrigued me

I 've always longed for... I have a strong desire for... ...is just what I wanted I'm really lnto..Jl find ..Interesting ... ls/ are my ail-time favourite

Providing Information
I a m writing to lnfonn/ let you know. ./ Please be notified th at .../ I wfsh to Inform you .. I am writing t o provide you with information about...

I am writing with regard t o/regarding.../ The reason that I am writing Is... I am writing t o inform you that I purchased t he above model of...

In reply to your letter, I am writing to advise you... As discu ssed/ agreed, ... I am contact ing you for...

In response to the advertisement i n today's newspaper, I am writing t o ... I will willingly prov ide further Information on your request

J am writing w ith reference to your letter dated .. ./ J am w riting to co nfirm ... l 'm send10g this emall to say...l hope this information wlll be of some assistance...

I am writing in connection with .. ./ I am writing In response to/reply t o ... I am enclosing/ attaching some leaflets/brochures/catalogues about...

Further to your letter of 12 July, I am wri ting to not ify that... If you require any further Information, please feel free ...

Replying to your advertisement in ...dated ... I would like to .. Should you need any further informati on, please ...

With reference to your letter of 8 June... I Referring to your letter of May 8th... I am writing t his letter t o explain.. ./ I 'm j u st emailing to let you know ...

Further to your email , I am forwarding this letter rega rding... I would like to begin by Informing you.. J The first thing I would like to tell yov Is...

I refer to your letter o f att1 of June concernlng.,./ln w hich you wrote about.. Another point that I would like to remind you ... I enclose herewith a copy of...

In last week's edition, you published an article regarding... Now I would like to... You might find the following i nformation u seful

As stated in your letter/fa.x/emall June 8tlt.. J J am writing to draw your attention to... Listen, did I tell you about ... ? I This is just to not e/ remind/let you know about...

I am writing on behalf of my fell ow st udents/ colleagues... I am responding to... / I am writ ing to you becausi, ../ Just a quick note to say...

Reg~t & Concern & Sympathy

I am ( extrem ely/inaedlbly/terribly) sorry to hear .../ I can't tell you how sad I am ... It wa s such a shock to h ear t hat..,/Piease accept m y heartfelt condolence ...

I was shocked to hear.. J Ma y I offer my deepest sympathies on.. J I was truly touched by .. I was deeply saddened by the news of.../ I was deeply distressed to hear of...

I am writing to express my concern about... I I was upset to hear that... We were greatly saddened to learn .. / I am writing to send/ extend my deepest sympathy

University appllcatlon ,"-''l,

Please find enclos ed my admission.. ./ I am Interested i n attending ... I am particularly interested in knowing about your... course

I need to have more Information about the course prerequisites, deadlines and fees I would appreciate receiving any Information you could provide about the course
86 Letter Language - Task 1 (GT}

Job application (skills)

{to ! have (good) (social/com municat1on/ conversation aljcomputer/neg oti atlon/) skills ( to) have ( good) (organisational/teamwork/management/critical thinking) skills

{to ) have (good ) (mathematical/leadership/marketi ng/interpersona! } skills ( to) deal with all correspondence/ ( to) have an eye for deta rl/ ( to} learn new skills quickly

(to) handle problems/ (to) be proficient ln.. J (to} be fammar with .. ./ ( to) be proactive (to) work well in a team/ Abil ity to complete quality wonc on time a nd within budget

( to ) have ability to maintain excell ent ra pport with clients/ ( t o) deal with office duties (to) pe rform we11 under time constraints/ ( to) preserve until the jo b is comp!eted

( to) be a good com municator/ {to} have thorough understa nding of purchasi ng systems (to) have good knowledge of .../ ( to) be capable of .../{to ) have ability to train new workers

(to) en Joy being a team player/ {to ) be keen to develop my career/ (to) be fl exible (to) be skilled in using PCs/ ( to) be skilled in working with large groups

Job application (personality)

ins:>rring/ encourag tng/energetie/levet· headed/ well ·rounded/understandlng/helpful communicatlve/dutlful/selt·m ade/carlng/ consistent/sympathetic/self· directed/ imglnatlve

approachable/support1ve/ hard· workln9/efficient/act ive/ self·motivated/ devoted/inventive goal·orlented/task·oriented/confidentjoutgoing/d lllgent/assertive/ patientJself· dnven

dedlcated/enthusiastic/ well·organised/creative/ resou rceful/loyal/responslve/ hone st fai thful/experi enced/ well·travelled/ punctua!/thoughtful/proactive/trustworthy/ coo perative

Resignation
I hereb y tender m y resignation from the firm ... Circumstances require th at I resign m y position as..

I hereby give you two weeks' notice of my intention to leave m y position .. Alter much consideration, I have accepted a position elsewhere

I have decided to return to full-tim e educat ion to change my career path I would like to req uest that you waive my notice peri od

Asking for opinions

Wt-at 's your opinion/idea of. .? I What do you think of ...? What 's your impression about .. .? How do you feet about .7 What a re your views on... ?How do you like ..?Any ideas about ... ?

Suggestions & Advice

I am writing to sug gest/recommen d ... / It is advisable to . J It Is well -worth considering r think the best suggestion ./Have you tried . .? Why don't you ...? Bet you'll li ke ...Go for It

It wo uld be a great idea to.. ./ I would fu rthe r suggest.../ My first suggestion is... Maybe you could/ought to.. ./ You might choose either ...or .../lf you ask me ..

I hope the followi ng suggestions will be of (some) help to you / A word of advice... Jr I were yo u/ in your position/s ho es, I would .. ./ It might be more prudent to ...

I am writing to offer suggestions about.../ I will be happy to offer my suggestions Have you thoug ht of...? Let me know soon how you feel about the idea

Perhaps it would be a good idea to. ./ Take my advice/ let me give you a tip/ hint Would It be a good idea to ...7/ You'd better do/not do sth .. ./ Let's... , shall we?

Would yo u mind choo sing between .... ? .. highly/ strongly recomm ended How about ...? It won't let you down/ You won 't regret/Wouldn't you like to...? Give it a try!

I strongly advise you ../ It seems to me you should .. ./ Have you thought of... ? Do n 't you think it would b e a good id ea to . .? / Maybe yo u should co nsid e r ... ?

Responding to suggestions
That's a (very) good idea/ What a good idea/ Wh at a brilliant idea ' That sounds (like) a very good idea ( t o me)/ It seems to be a good idea

Asking for advice

I wond er if I might req uest your valuable advice on/ concerning .. You know more than me about ../ I 'd like your advice if you don't mind

I don 't know m uch about.../ I'd appreciate some advice if you can't mind I'd welcome some advice if you don't mind/ I'm not sure what to do

Could you give m e some advice? / Can you offer me some advice ? What would you do if you were in my position?

I've got a small problem . I was wonderi ng if you could advise me I need your ad vice. Can you give me some ad vice on how to...

Rejecting advice
Thank you for the advice but I think I 'd better...all the same Thanks for the recommendation but I 'd prefer to ..

Requests & Enquiries

I am writing to enquire .. / Please suppl y me with relevant information If you don't mind, .. could/ would you .. please>/ Could I ask you a favour>

Having seen your advertisement in... I am particularl y interested in .. Fi rst of all, I'd like to know about .. / Could/ would you possibly ... please>

I am writing to receive more detailed information about.. Would it be t oo much to ask you to... ? Would you be willing to ...?

I recently read/heard about...and would like to know more about... I would be glad if you could .../ I am urgent ly in need of...

I'd like to ask for more information about .. ./ Kin dly let me have full details I would ( great ly) appreciate if you could..

I am writing t o ask ... I Would you be able to...? / Will you please... ? It would be highly appreciated if you could.../ I was wonder ing if you'd mind .

I would be extremely grateful if you could.../ I would like to know if/ whether... I am writing to ask if you would be so kind to... / Do you think you"d be able to ... ?

I f it's not too much trouble, could you...? I Could I trouble you to ..., please? I wonder if you could possibly .../ I was wonderi ng if you could possibly ..
I am writ ing to request permission for .../1 am writing if J might be permitted to ... I would be most grateful if you would/could ..

Asking for specification

Could you be more exact?/ Can you be more specific?/ Specifically wh ...? Can you give a specific ca se?/Can you give a case in point?/ Exactly wh .. ?
Letter Language - Task 1 (GT)
87

Plans & Intentions

My (dream/ambition/g oal) is to.../ I have a real desire to .. Hopefully speaking I'll ../ I'm determined to .../ I have a solid plan to...

I'm going to .. ./I intend to.. ./I've been thinking of... /l'v e been meani ng to.. I've always dreamt of... / I'm thinking about .../ I've decide to...

1'11. .. right away at the first chance I get/ I'm planning to ... I've t hought about ..for a long t ime / We are aiming at...

Neutrality
I don't care/ I don't mind/ It's all the same to me/ It makes no difference to me I don't hold any particular position on this issue

I don't feel strongly about it/ It's (entirely) up to you/ It's your decision What ever you say is fine with me/ It doesn't matter to me wheth er...

Admission
To tell you the truth/ To tell the trut h/ To be honest/ Honestly speaking To be perfectly honest/ I n fact/ In act ual fact/ The (truth) of the fact is ...

Offering a promise & Reassurance

I'll .. .! promise you (to/not to) .../ I guarantee ../ I can assure you You can be sure.. ./ You have my word on t hat/ I swear I'll ../ It's a promise

You can (rely/depend/count) on me/Set your mind at ease/rest. I promise I won't disappoint you/ I won't let you down. I'll keep my word

Asking for a promise

Can I rely on you to... 7/Can I depend on you to ..?/Can I count on you to ..? Can I rely on that?/ Can I depend on tha t?/Can I coun t on th at?

Exclamations
How wonderful'/ Gee, how great!/ Cool' / Awesome!/ Wow!/ Incredible! W hat a pai n!/ What a drag!/ Wh at a nightmare'/ What a torture! How bad'

Disbelief
You're joking/ You must be jok, ng/ You 're kid ding/ you must be kidding No ki dding/ How strange/ It is really hard to believe/ ...is unbelievable

Hesitation
I don't know where to begin/start. ./ I 'm in two m inds about. ../ I doubt it I don't know what to say/ I 'm not sure what to do/ I can't make up my mind

Inability
I wasn't able to.../ I coul dn't.. ./ I won 't be able to .. / I find it so hard to... There's nothing I can do about it/ There's no way I can get out of .

I'm n ot sure (t h at) I can/ I'd love to, but I'm afraid I can't I'd do so wi llingly, but I'm afraid I can't/ That's hard for me to ..

Ability
I'm able to... / I can .../ I am capable o f .. ./ I am perfectly capable of ... I'm (pretty) good at.../ I am competent in ../ I specialise in ...

I have an enormous capacity for ../ I am an expert at / I'm a specialist in .. I have the experience/ ability/ qualifi cations necessary to ../I'm skilled attin ...

Accomplishments
I've been able to.. /1 've managed . / I have managed to.. ./ I was able t o... I'd like to have 1I hope I'll have ,one of my greatest accomplishments is..

I am proud of my achievem ents in .. ./ I have been successful in/at. . I h ave achieved a long- standing ambition to.../ I succeeded in ...

Forgetting
I forgot (all about it)/ I completely forgot/ My mind went blank It (complet ely) slipped my m ind/ it went clean out of my m i nd

Remembering
Did you (happen to) re member to ... ? / If I remember correctly . If my memory serves m e well ../ If m y m emory serves me correctly ...

If I re call correctly ../ To the best of my memory/recollection/ .. rings a bell I vaguely remembe r. ./ I can distinctly/vividly remember

Offering assistance
If I can be of more help, please feel free lo let me know Can I be of any help to you 7/ I'd be glad to help

If I can be of fu rther assistance, please do not hesitate to inform me If you req uire assistance, please cont act

I'd be happy to help If I can do anything fo r you/ Let m e help you let m e know if there's anything I can do to help/I 'd be glad to ..if you 'd like

1'11 ...,f you 'd li ke/ l s there anything else I can help you with> Would you like me to help you?/ Can I do anything to help?

(Do you) want any help?/ ( Do you ) need any help? (Do you) want a hand? I (Do you) need a hand? Can I give you a hand?

I'd be happy to lend a hand/ Let me give you a hand I s t here anything/something particular I can do?

Asking for assistance

.. if you don't mind/ ...if you wouldn't mind/ .. .if it's no t roubl e Could you please help me? ... In fact I don't want to trouble/bother you

... but I don't want to inconvenience you/ I don't wan t to put you to any trouble Could you do me a favour and... ? Can I ask a favour?/ Could I have your help?
88 Letter Language - Task 1 (GT)

Responding to an offer
Don't mention It/ It was nothing at all/ You're welcome/ Any t ime Glad to be of help/I'm glad I could help/ It is my pleasure/ Sure/ Certainly

Permission
Can/could/May I (possibly) ...' Would it be possible for me to ... ? l s it all right / okay (with you) if I. .?

I'd like to ...if that's all right/okay (with you)/ Would you mind if I ... ? Would it bot her you if I ... ?/ Do you mind if!...'

Could you allow me to ... ? I want to know if I am allowed to... Would it be all right/okay (with you) If I ..?/ I'd like to ... if tha t 's okay

Granting permission
It's all right/okay with me/ No, I wouldn't m i nd/ No, I don't mind Not at all/That 's okay with me/That's fine with me/That's all right wi t h me

Allowing
.. Is ( not) allowed/ .. .is (not) permitted/ .. is (not) agreed/ ..is (not ) tolerated ... is (not) allowable/ . .is (not) permissible/...is (not ) acceptable/...is (not) accepted

...is (not) authorised.. is (not) legalised/... is (not) tolerable/...legally allowed You can't do t hat without the permission/ approval of.../ Out of question

Preferences
I'd (much) prefer ... to .. ./ I 'd prefer not to.. ./. ..appeals to me more .. I'm (much) more interest ed in .../ It would be preferable to...

I tend to prefer .../ I'd like .. ./ I'm (much) more attracted to .../ I like.. more My first choice/preference would be.../ I'd rather (not)...

Asking about preferences

Would you rather...or... ?/ Would you prefe r t o .. or...?/ Do you want to... ? j Which one would you go for? Which one did you find a better choice?

Expressing probability
I'll probably .. ./ I'm pretty sure 111. ../ l guess 111... I suppose 111. ../ I'll most likely .. ./ That's most probably...

It isn't very likely.../ The chances are probably not very high ... 1s rather/very/hi ghly unlikely to happen

The chances are pretty slim/ There's not m uch chance of that happening I doubt if that would/could/will happen/ I don't think that will happen

That's not likely to happen/That 's not very likely/There is a slight chance.. There 's no chance (that) .. ./ There's no possibility (that) ...

That's for sure/ I'm absolutely certain/ It is reasonable to assume ... I'm absolutely sure/There's no doubt about it/ I'm a hundred percent sure

I'm not completely certain/ I'm n ot absolutely certain/ I don't think so I don't know yet/ I doubt i t/ I'm not sure/ I'm not certai n

I'm fa irl y certain that... I There's a fifty-fifty ch ance of... I might.../ I thought I might ../ I thought I'd .. ./ It may ...

Enquiring about probability

What are the chances of .. ?/ ls there much chance ... ? ls it probable that...? What's the likelihood o f ... ?/ What is the possibility/chance o f .. h appening?

Encouragement
How encouraging/ It is certainly heartening to see ../ It is comforting to ... ... is an uplifting experience/. . is promising/ It is reassuring t o know that ..

Disappointment
I was a little disappointed/I t was (a little) disappointing/How discouraging ...was a bitter disappointment/How upsetting/ I wasn't very pleased with...

Apologies
Please acce pt my sincere apologies .. /I must apolog ise for troubtlng you with this matter I 'm writing to apologise for .. I Sorry to bother you with... / It wasn't intentional.
I apologise for... and regret any inconvenfence .../How ca n I ever repay you for ...? t owe you an apology for ... I Hope these fl owers can do a little to make up for. .

I should like to offer my apologies for.../ Please convey my apologies to... Please accept my h eartfelt apology/ Please forgive me fo r ...

I feel truly sorry/ I deeply regret any Inconvenience it may have caused/ I'm to ~ame I t was such a shock to learn abou t.. Sorry f or pu tting you to a lot of trouble

Sorry, I thought you wouldn 't mind/ Give me a call and put me out of my misery I am terrtbly/ a wfully sorry for .../ It was stupid of me to...lI'II make It up t o y ou , I promise

Sorry for all the problems you might undergo . / It never happens again . I assure you I thought you wouldn't mind/ I felt like a complete Idiot! I Let's patch things up

Pa rdon me fo r. . / Ever so sorry/ I 'm ashamed of .. ./ rt was careless of me/ Sorry I goofed That was my fault/ I shouldn't have .../ r do apologise for .. ./ I'd like to apologlse for...

Accepting apologies
Forget it/ That's OK/ Never m ind/ It doesn't matter/ Don't worry/ It's no trouble at all No problem/ Nothing to get upset about/ Come on! What a re you saying? {That's all righ t

Reservation
Foll owing our telephone conversation, r am writing t o confirm the reservation of .. can I make a booking for Friday? Are there any online booking systems a vailable'

I would like to make a reservation for ... I'd like to book a/ an ...for ...

Do I have to reserve in person?/ Could I book by telephone? No ad vance booking is necessary/ Early b ooking is recom mended
Letter Language - Task 1 (GT)
89
~
- ' ...
Bad news
~~..f •!<-\'.- -... - ,.,,. . ,,i ~

•.. i .,·
I regret t o inform you that .../ I am sorry to have to tell you tha t. .. I have some bad news.. ./ You have my deepest sympathy for ...

I deeply regret to let you know.. ./ It is with great grief that we announce... It Is with deep_regret/ great sadness that I must inform you ...

.. Dluatlsfactlon & Complaints

-...;··
I am writing to complain about the poor quality service that I received ... My tickets are refundable/ I will be grateful if my money is refunded

I am writing to express my dissatisfaction/annoyance/concern about... I feel I am entitled to compensation/a re fund/a replacement

I recently purchased ..., having seen it widely advertised. The problem is... Please credit$ 1000 to my credit card account/ I hope th is Incident Is not repeated

I have to bring this up. I am not happy about... I I was extremely distressed .. I am by no means satisfied .../ I am requesting an immediate full refund

I am extremely upset at..J I am not satisfied with .. ./ I expect a full wrttteo apology I suggest I will be given a full refu nd, and claim compensa~on for the inconvenience

I am very disappointed with .../ When the goods arrived l found the following defects I expect to receive $1000 In recompense for.../ I Insist on getting a refund of $1000

I am a recen t/regular customer of .../ Your service was very disappointing I would be grateful if you could give me a full refund/ I expect a cash rebate

I am writing to draw your attention (to the problem of).. ./We are preparing a petition for._ Please return my $1000 payment for..., which I made in advance

I wlll have no choice but to take further legal action/ I'll circulate a sign-up sheet for... This situat ion is intolerabl e/ I look forward t o receiving a full refund

...Is not what I expected/ According to your advertisement, we could choose... Your service was very disappointing .. ./ Please look into this matter ASAP

Worst of all, . .was awfu l...At these prices 1 expect a better servlce/... was also unacceptable I expect to receive a compensatory payment of $1000

You can imagine how unh appy I was to discover.../ I would like... to be repaired/fixed It was Implied in the contract that... / I expect to be compensated financially

Something should be done about this. I tl'\Jst this matter wlll not be treated lightly Your company should compensate me for the losses I have been suffered

I believe... is absolutely esse ntial. I hope you can settle this matter by... l should be compensated for the suffering I have been caused

Please replace it as soon as possible. I will call you tomorrow to follow up 1 addressed my letter to the sales manager/ t expect to receive$ 1000 ln compensation

My first complaint/concern is .. ./ Please take proper action You will take steps to solve... and accept all the charges and surcharges

I am sure that by now you must be aware of the problem ... I I have been u nfalr1y treated I look forward to receiving a replacement/your explanation

... was not of the standard claimed in your brochure/ I really must object to ... I must inform you how appalled I was. Please prevent the occurrence of...

Contrary to what J had been told .../ J want to know what you are going to do about this This is truly a regrettable occurrence.. ./ I expect to be compensated for...

I am extremely concerned .../ I experienced th e following problems ... I have to say your service was below my expectations/ I must point out/emphasise that ...

There appears to be an error on my bank statement/ You made an error in your total Your service was very poor. What action wlll you take to rectify this situation?

When I tried to contact you by phone, no one could offer me any sensible answer I was supposed to receive ... that never happened

On dlecking the goods we find that several Items on your lnvOice have not been Included I wish to complain In the strongest terms about.J What do you Intend to do to Improve ... ?

An expla nation of this delay will be appreciated/ Pfease send lt to my forwarding address I have been put to considerable inconvenience

We are sorry to Inform you that your last delivery Is not up to your usual standard Please confirm that you will rectify the defect as a matter of urgency

You have supplied goods below the standard we expected from the samples To prove our statem ent we are enclosing one of these samples recetved yesterday

The quality of the goods does not correspond with that of the samples submitted r look forward to your suggestions as to how the situation can be put right...

The goods we have rece ived do not tally with the sample o n which we ordered Under the tem,s of your guarantee .. ./ Would you please send us a rectified Invoice?

EvidenUy some mistake was made and the goods wrongly delivered We look forward to your dealing wit h these questions without delay

The service we were offered was unsatisfactory in the following ways We cannot accept ...as they are not the size and shape we ordered

I look forward to receiving your written reply within the next three days You have not sent us all the goods we ordered; the following are missing ...

Dissatisfaction (Adjectives)
terrible/dreadful/unsatlsfactory/unacceptable/lnadequate/ poor/uninvltlng/unappealing boring/tlring/exhaustlng/confusing/puzzling/perplexlng/disgustlng/discouraglng/horrible

wonying/ fNstratlng/embarrassing/ annoylng/ disturblng/l rrttatlng/ dlstracting/substandard depresslng/heartbreaklng/frightenlng/homfying/shocklng/nerve-racklng/disappolnting

unpleasant/unappealin9/unattractive/uninterestln9/distasteful/ dull/tlresome/ awful sou l-destroylng/insufferabfe/appalling/horrifylng/unexdUng/dlsheartenlng/monotonous

horrifylng/miserable/lntolera ble/unbearable/lri<some/upsetting/uncomfortable/deadly weartsome1e x:asperatl ng/ objection able1lnsupportable/unendurable/dispfeasing/unbearable

Dislikes .....
I hate/ dislike ... I'm not interested in... I don't care for... I don't fancy I have always had a strong
aversion to ...

I have an Intense dislike of... ... really bugs me It doesn't appeal to me I don't have mu ch interest in .. I dont (particularly) care for...

I find ... (sort of) boring ...is of no Interest to me at all I can't stand ... I'm fed up with ... ... disturbs/ bothers me ...

I have a deep hatred of... I have a problem with ... I 'm sick and tired of... I find ... (rather) tiring. I 'm really hacked off

I (really) detest .... ... bores me

I found ... extremely irritating I find ...(rather) dull I 'm not keen on...

I (really) can't bear .... ...makes me sick What a drag/wet bl anket What a bore... What an upsetting experience
90 Letter Language - Task 1 ( GT)

Lost items
1 am writ ing to you to ask whether you have had a/an. handed Into you r office I am writing to advise you that I lost my passport/credit card ..

I should have forgotten it on t he plane/bus ... I am wri t ing to confirm the loss of my passport/credit card ...

As you can imagine, ... is very important to m e When I got home, I realised that I had left my ...

Coulc you let m e know if you have m y passport/ credit card ... , I am wnting 1n connection with .. that I lelt ...

Would you ask your los t & found office to check and see if they h ave my... I am wri tin g to report the t helt of my .../ Please call me urgently if ...

Please write to me at the above address/ Send it to my postal address I t hink I may have accidentally left: it../ Please inform your lost property offi ce

Please contact me on my mobile t elephone, which is ... Would you contact and let m e know if you have found ... '

Cancellation
Could you please cancel my m embership/ subscription/ order? I reg ret I must ca ncel the reserva tion I made with you .. Jrom 19 to 21 December

Payment
In settlement of yo ur Invoice No ..we enclose our cheque/money order for $1000 Please pay the cheque into my account/ Please credit S 1000 co my credit card account

Paymen t is being ma de by banker's draft in settlem ent of your invoice for $10 00 We enclose invoice amounting to $100; covering .. ./ Could I pay by credit card ?

I apologise most sincerely fo r the delayed payment of invoice No ... d ated ... I would l!ke to know if you accept cheques/ A cheque has been drawn on your account

I will th en provide you with my cr ed it card details so that a deposit ca n be pa id I would appreciat e writt en confirmation of t he price agr eed

We are opening a credit of $1000 to your credit Please place these funds t o the credit of our account

On checking your statement we find you have missed a credit entry for S1000 on 3 Jan Please let us have your cheque for the amount of the enclosed statement

We are sending you a statement for January invoices totalling $1000 We have today t ransferred t he amount of $ 1000 t o the XYZ Bank

I n settlement of your invoice No... , we enclose our cheque for $ 1000 Payment will be remitted to you in full

According to our records, you have not yet settled the account According to our cond1t1ons of sale, your remitt ance was due on July 3 1"

Did the bank wire th e m oney? Could you please check your bank balance? Could you let me know if ! can pay .. by/in instalm ents'

Expectations
You are supposed to .. ./ You are not supposed to ../ It is acceptable to ... You are expected to . ./ You are not expected to .. ./ It Is customary to ..

Obligation & Necessity

! have t o.;! must/I've got to ../!'m supposed t o .. ./! have no option but to .. I was obliged to . / I was forced to .. ./... makes me.. ./ It is necessary t o ...

! 'm in th e need of.../1 ought to .. ./lt is compulsory to .. ./... is a must It is essent ial to ../It is obligatory to .. ./ It is mandatory to .. ./!t is vit al th at.

Describing difficulty
! fou nd it hard to ../ I found it t ricky to .. ./ I foun d it challenging to .. I found it tough t o ../ I found it difficult to.. ./ ... is a complicated problem

... 1s a complex problem/ ... is a thorny problem/ ... is a knotty problem ... is a t ncky problem/ It is problemati c/I have considerable difficulty (in) ..

Saying how easy something is

...i s dead easy/ . .is so simple/... is not hard to follow/... is uncomplicated Anyone can .. ./ .is a piece of cake/ .. is as easy as anything/ .. is a snap

...is as easy as falling off a log/... is as easy as pie/... is a cinch/...is a doddle ... is very straightforward/ It's easy once you get the hang of it

Concluding phrases
I look forward to recelvrng your prom pt repty/ explanation/swift attention to this matter You can always count on me/ Greatly wishing to see you soon

I appreci ate your prompt attention regarding t his matter Feel free to keep in touch wi th me/ Drop me a line/ Gi ve me a ring

I remain at your disposal for any fu rther information If t can help in any way, please let me know/ I'm only a phone call away

Do not hesitate to contact me if you need to discuss any further details I wish that we cou ld get together more often/ Don 't hesi tate to call on me

I can be contacted at the above address/ Here's my contact address Please do not hesitate to be in touch. Give your parent s my regards

! hope to have the opportunity to talk with you in the near fu ture I'd love to hear what's happening. Do write back soon. I'm longing to see you a~ain

I appreciate a reply at your earli est convenience/ I would appreciate your kindness Give your parents my regards when you see them/ Remember me to your parents

! 'm awaiting your prompt reply concern ing this matter Be in touch/ We must catch up someday/Take care of yourself. TNT 'Till Next Time'

I'm ent husiastically/ desperately/eagerly lookin g forward to hearing from you Ha\le a good time and write more often. Cheerst/ Say hello to your parents

Thanks again for putting us up, and get in touch/ ! really can't wait to see you I'll be t hinking of you, counting down to the big day and wishing you the best

Let's stay in t ouch/ It's been really nice seeing you again ! think I should get going/ I've got to go now/ Let's get together

Sign off phrases

Yours faithfully/ Yours Truly/ Yours sin cerel y/ Affectionatel y/ Sincerely/ Sincerely yours, Cordially yours/ Warmest regards/ (With) Best wishes/ Take care/ Yours/ Yours ever,

Very truly yours/ Respectfully yours/ Best regards/ Kindest regards/ Wi th si ncere thanks, All the best/ With very best wishes/ Hug s and kisses/ Lots of love/ With much love,
Keywords of Letter Writing- Task 1 (GT)
91

,· . ..
I '·
..
Frequently used letter writing words ( A-Z) -
a ccept brand cooperation estimation

acceptable brochure correspond evaluate

acceptance broker correspondence evaluation

agenda budget credit exchange

agent Calculate credit or exchange rate

allocate cancel customer expect

allocation career customer service expectation

annual cash discount customs expenditure

apologise catalogue CV (Curriculum Vitae) expense

apology certificate d eadline expire

appoint certification deal expiry

appointment certify debit explain

appreciate charge debt explanation

appreciation choice delay export

appreciative choose deliver exporter

approval classification delivery date extra cha rge/ pay

approve classify damage f ee

arrange client demand finance

arrangement commercial department financial assistance

assess commerce deposit foreign exchange

assessment commission details forwa rd

assist committee director g oods

assistance compensate discount rate gratitude

attach compensation discuss guarantee

attend compete discussion i mport

attention competition dissatisfaction importer

authorise competitor d issatisfied inconvenience

authority competitive price distribute inconvenient

b ad debt comp lain distribution inform

background complaint document information

balance sheet confidentia l draft insurance

bank balance confirm due date inva lid

bank charge confirmation e mploy invest

bank statement consent employee investment

bank transfer consider employer invitation

bill consideration employment invite

bill of exchange consult embark invoice

book consultation enclose issue

board of directors contact enquire item

borrow contract enquiry l end

borrower cooperate estimate letter of credit ( LC)

92 Keywords of Letter Writing- Task 1 {GT)

I
Frequently used letter writing words
licence personnel refund submit

loan plan refuse subscribe

m anage policy refusal subscriber

management poor quality register subscription

manager poor service reject suggest

ma rket share postage remind suggestion

memo posta I order remit supervise

mention postpone remittance supervision

miscalculate postscript renew supplier

mishandle prefer renewal supply

mismanage preferable repay support

mismanagement preference repayment sympathise

modification preparation replace sympathy

modify prepare replacement t ariff

n egotiable price- list reply temporary

negotiate private report terms of delivery

negotiation produce representative terms of payment

notice producer reputation testify

notification product require test imonial

notify production requirement total

Occupation profit reserve trade discou nt

occupational profitable reservation trade mark

offer professional respond t rading company

order pro- forma invoice response transact ion

organisation proj ect resume transfer

organisat ional prospectus retail trust

organise provide retailer turnover

overcha rge provision Sale U nacceptable

overdraft public sample unpaid

overdraw purchase satisfaction unprofitable

p ack q ualit y satisfactory unreliable

package qua ntit y discount schedule up-to-date

participate quote scale urgent

participation r eceipt securit y V alid

pay receive selling va lidity

payable recommend settle variable

pay off recom mendation settlement verificat ion process

payment reconsider specialise verify

periodical record special offer W holesale

permit refer specifications withdraw

per mission reference standard Z ip code

 Classified & Standard Samples - Task 1 {GT)
93

Sample 1 Assignment extension / Formal letter

You are a student in a college and have not yet completed an important assignment fo r your course.
You are writing a letter to your tutor.
• apologise for the delay
• explain why it is late
• request an extension.

Dear_ __ _ _ _

I am writing to apologise for not completing my proj ect o n I nformation and Technology. I am extremely sorry
for not meeting t he deadline you set and rea lise that the delay will cause you a lot of inconvenience.

Unfortunately, I had domestic problems to d eal with recently. My mother is currently recovering at home after
a major operation and I need to look after her.

I n view of this, I wou ld be very grateful if you could allow me to have more t ime to co mplete this important
assignment. Idea lly, I require an additional week so t hat I can proofread it and check m y references. I also
need to write my conclusion but as I have already managed to prepare the outline of the summary. It should
not take too long.

Once again, I regret t his extremely unfortunate delay but hope to submit it by the end of next week.
( 150 words)

Yours sincerely,

Sample 2 Assignment extension / Formal letter

You won 't be able to hand your assignment in on time.

Write to your lecturer asking fo r an extension. In the letter
• describe the situation
• explain why your assignment will be late
• say when you will be able to hand in your assignment.

Dear_ __ _ __

I am sorry t o have to tell you that I will be unable to hand in my Geography assignment due on t he 14th of
September .

Unfortunately, my mother has had a heart attack and I have to f ly back to China to see her as soon as possible.
At the mom ent I am on stand-by for the next available flight, so I do not know when I will be leaving or when I
will be com ing back.

I believe t hat I will be away for two weeks at the most, and I t hink that I will be able to do some work whi le
I a m in China my country. However, I will a lmost certa inly need an extension on my assign ment. Please could
you give me permission to hand it in on the 21st of September? This would be one week later than expected.

Could you let me know as soon as possible whether I can get an extension? I am sorry fo r any inconven ience
I have caused. (167 words)

Yours sincerely,
94 Classified & Standard Samples - Task 1 (GT)

Sample 3 Training course / Informal letter

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
• explain what you like to do
• explain what kind of work or studies you have been tloing for the past few years
• ask for assistance in contacting an appropriate institution.

Dear_ _ _ _ __

Sorry I haven't written to you for ages. I have been very busy over the last yea r and I never seem to get a
minu te to myself.

I 'd like to study electrical engineering in Australia and I hope you can give me some advice. I think I wou ld
prefer Melbourne because I know you and a few people from my visit there last year.

Thi s 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 co lleges? Also, ca n
you find out what qualifications I need, please? For instance, as an overseas student, do I have to take an
English test?

I hope you don 't mind doing thi s for me. I t is much better to get this information from someone who lives in
the country, so I hope to hear from you soon. (160 words)

Many thanks,

Sample 4 Training course I Informal letter

A f riend is already attending a TAFE college in Australia. You will be going to A ustralia next year.
Write a letter. In your letter
• ask him/her about what you should do before you go
• ask him/her about any problems he/she has had.

Dear_ _ __ __

How are yo u getting on in Melbourne? I hope everything is going well and you are enjoying your stu dies.
I 'm writing to ask you for some information as I'm planning to come and study in Austral ia next year.
I have applied to the TAFE College in Adelaide to take th e course in Tou rism and Hospitality Management.

Could you tell me what I have to do to obtain a study v isa and how long the process will take? Th e college said
I also have to take out insurance before I come to Austra lia. How do I do this? I 'd be really grateful if you could
give me this information. I would also be grateful if you could tell me what I should bring with me, for example,
clothes, books or anything I cannot get in Australia.

I'm sure that studying in a college overseas has not been witho ut at least some problems for you. Adjusting to
a new culture was probably a lso difficu lt. Have you had any particular problems that I should watch out for?
I 'd appreciate any advice you can give me. (182 words)

Many t hanks,
 Classified & Standard Samples - Task 1 (GT}
95

Sample S Training course / Formal letter

You wish to enrol in a course (ofyour choice) at an A ustralian college. You have alreatly written a letter to the
college asking for information but have received no reply.
Write a letter to the college explaining your concern because the course will start in less than two months,
• you need to know ifyou can still enrol
• you also require further information about the course, including the cost.

Dear_ _ _ _ __

I am anxious to obtain information about t he college 's Graphics Design course wh ich begins in less than two
months . Actually, I wrote four weeks ago, but I have not yet heard from you . Perhaps yo u did not receive my
lett er.

First of all, I need t o know if it is too late to enroll in t he co urse . Can yo u write and tell me if t here are any
places available? I certai nly hope that m y enrol ment is still possible.

I need to have more information about t he course before I decide to apply, but I realise that I do not have
much time. Would you be kind enough to send your reply by express mail? Especia lly, I need to know the cost
of the course, and whether the certifica te you offer at the en d of the course will be sufficient qualification for
me to apply full-time to one of the Graphic Design co lleges i n yo ur city.

I look forward to your reply . (16 5 words)

Yours fait hf ully,

Sample 6 Training course / Formal letter

You wish to apply for a course ofstudy in Britain. Write a letter of application to the college or university concerned,
giving your personal details and your academic qualifications, including your level of English. Include information
about the course and subjects you wish to study, and why you have chosen this particular college or university.

Dear _ _ _ _ __

I am writing to apply for th e Journalism Fo undation Course offered by your u niversity for the academic year
beg inning October, 2013.
I am a 24-y ear-old French citizen, currently living in Pari s. Since leaving school in 2005, I have held a variety
of posit ions working for local newspapers. For t he last two years I have been employed as an assistant in the
editing department of an English language newspaper publish ed in Paris. I am a BA holder in commun ication
sciences as well as having successfully completed a course in English lit erature. Furthermore, I have been
studying Eng lish since the age of 12 and have recently obtained a grade B in th e Cambridge Proficiency in
English examination .
I believe that I am we ll-suited to a career in journalism and I am keen to continue worki ng in this field.
However, I feel that I lack the formal qualifications and train ing necessary to progress beyond my present level
of assistant editor . A cou rse would give me an excellent basi s for futu re study, tog ether with an insi ght into
journalism from an international perspective.
Your university has an extrem ely good reputation in t he field of journalism an d media studies. The facilit ies
wh ich you offer to student s seem both practical and up-t o-dat e.
Please find enclosed a copy of my CV, giving further details of my educational qualifications and work
experience. I hope you will consider m y application and I look forward to hearing from yo u soon . (239 words)

Yours faithfu lly,

96 Classified & Standard Samples - Task 1 (GT}

Sample 7 Training course I Formal letter

Although you have never studied computing, you have always been interested in computers. You buy magazines
about them, and you have taught yourself many skills on your computer at home. You have just read about a
computer course that really interests you, but is only for people who have studied computing at college or university.
Write a letter to the E nrollment Officer
• ask ifyou can enroll
• explain your circumstances
• ask if he/she will make a special exception for you.
Dear_ __ _ _ __

I am particularly interested in enrolling in the computer course which is being offered at your college. I noticed
t he advertisement in the local newspaper, and I noted t hat t he course is for those who have formal training in
computing at college or university level.

I have not done any fo rmal study in co mputing. I am writing to ask if you would make an exception to your
course entry requ irements based on m y backg ro und reading and the level of computer skills I have developed.

Computers are my passion and I have built up an extensive computer reference library. I subscribe to several
compute r magazines. I have taught myself all major computer languages, including Cobalt and Fortran. I am
famil iar with most computer software applications for word processing, spreadsheets and databases, as well as
websites .

I am available for an interview, as well as a placement test so that I can demonstrate both m y knowledge and
skills.

I hope you will cons ider my request favou rably. (164 wo rds )
Yours fa ithfully,

Sample 8 Training course I Formal letter

You have been studying French for one semester at university, but have decided to change your lang uage course
to Eng lish. Write a letter to the Dean ofStudies, Professor Andrews
• explain why you wish to change your course ofstudies
• ask if it is possible to transfer your f ees for the rest of the y ear without paying additional costs.

[SUBJECT] : Course 101

Dear_ __ __ __

I am writing to you because I would like to change m y course next semester. In t he first sem ester this yea r,
I took French 101, but now I have decided to cha nge to English 101.

My main reason for asking to cha nge is that th e French course does not fit easily into my timetable for the new
semester. Every fortnight I wi ll miss t wo French classes because of t he clashes with other papers I am doing.

As I have studied English in the past, I am co nfident I could pass English 101, even though I will have missed
half of the course.

Another reason why I have decided to change my course is that I am planning a career in international
busi ness, a nd English is used more often than French in t his part of the world .

I was wondering if it would be possible to transfer the fees that I have paid for French 101 to English 101.

Thank you very m uch for considering my request. ( 165 words)

Sincerely,
 Classified & Standard Samples - Task 1 (GT)
97

Sample 9 Training course / Formal letter

You see an advertisement for a course designed to help improve yo11r memory.
Write a letter to the organisers of the course. In the letter give some backgro11nd information about y ourself
• explain your own problems and why yo11 wo11/d like to do the course
• enquire about the methods 11sed on the course
• enquire about the course fees and dates.

Dear_ _ __ _ _

I am a stu dent at Sheffield 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 h igh school, t hen married and looked after
my 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 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 yo u use on the
course, as well as the cost and dates of your course. As I am a full -t ime 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 co uld benefit a great deal from your course and look forward to your reply. (203 words)

Yours faithfully,

Sample 10 Training course / Formal letter

Last year you attended an intensive English course at the Darwin College of English. Your new employer has asked
you to provide copies ofyour reports and assignments as quickly as possible.
Write to the director of the language school and request these documents.

Dear_ __ _ __

I am writing to ask for your assistance. I attended a 3 -week English course at yo ur co llege from 6 Novem ber to
24 November. My full name is John Smith and my student number was CZ 352Z. The course I attended was
English for Tra vel and Tourism at intermediate level. My class instructors were Robin Tyson and Ali ce Maddax.

I am about to start work at Suntou rs travel compa ny and they have asked me to provide information about the
English course and any assignments and reports . Unfortunately, I left all my copies of these documents at my
friend's house and cannot contact him at present.

Therefore, I would be very grateful if you cou ld send me copies of the course outline, the three written
assignments and the end of course report as soon as possible. I will be happy to refund any postal charges.

Thank you so much for your help in this matter. I look forward to receiving the copy course outlines.
( 162 words)

Yours sincerely,
98 Classified & Standard Samples - Task 1 (GT)

Sample 11 Training course / Formal letter

You are going on a short training course at a college in Christchurch, New Zealand. You nee,/ somewhere to live
while you are there. Write a letter to the accommodation officer at the college. In your letter
• e:xplain your situation
• describe the accommodation you require
• say when you will need il

Dear _ __ __ __

I am a 28-year-old agronomist from Hunan Province in t he people 's Republic of Ch ina, and I ha ve been
accepted to take a one -month at Christchurch University College starting next January.

I would be grateful if you could either find me accommodation for the month or give me a list of addresses that
I could write to. I wo uld like , if possible, to have a room in a family house because I would like the opportunity
to practise my English at the same time . I will need a room with a bed and a ta ble so that I can study there
also, if possible, I would prefer a room near the college since I will only be in Christchurch for a short time and
I will not have time to learn my way around.

I wi ll need the accommodation for five weeks from 28th December to the 3rd February as I would like to arrive
a few days before the course begins.

Could you also please te ll me how much accommodation of this ki nd will cost and whether the price includes
meals? I look forward to hearing from yo u. (190 words)

Yours faithfully,

Sample 12 Training course / Formal letter

The student representative body at the university or college which you attend offers an advisory sen ,ice to help
students with their problems. As a member of the advisory committee, you have received a letter from a foreign
student who is concerned about various problems related to studying abroad. Write a reply, offering practical
advice and reassuring them that they do not need to worry.

Dear_ _ _ __ __

I am writing on behalf of the Students' Adviso ry Service in reply to your letter of 13th May, and wou ld like to
congratulate you on obtaining a place at Shelbourne University. I understand that you are nervous about
moving to a foreig n country, and I hope that following advice wi ll be of some help to you.
You mentioned that you are afraid of being lonely and unable to make friends when you get to university.
Firstly, I would suggest t hat you t ry to meet as many people as possible during the fi rst few days, as this is
when many friendships are formed. I would also recommend joining some clubs and societies as a way of
meeting people with the same interests as yours.
Let me reassure yo u that, if yo u follow this ad vice, you wi ll not feel lonely. When you arrive, you will realise
that everyone is in the sam e situation and t hat your fellow students wi ll be more than willing to make friends.
In your letter, you also refer to your worries about coping with the work. I w ould adv ise to make sure that you
always do each piece of work immediately after it is assigned so t hat you do not fa ll behind. Add itionally, if you
find that you need help, the best course of action would be to speak to your tutor. Most important of all,
I strongly recommend that you organise your timetable carefully so that you can combine wo rk and recreation.
I would like to wish you good luck with yo ur course. Please do not hesitate to contact me again should you have
any further questions. (270 words)
You rs sincerely,
 Cla ssified & Standard Sample s - Task 1 ( GT) 99

Sample 13 Reference / Formal letter

You are applying fo r a j ob and need a letter of reference from someone who knew you when you were at school.
Write a letter to one ofyour old teachers asking for a reference. In your letter
• say what job you have applied f or
• explain why you want this job
• suggest what information the teacher should include in the letter.

I hope everyth ing is fine at t he school and you have been well. I still remember your managemen t met hods and
try to apply them in my classes .Thanks again for t hose im portan t lesso ns.

I am writing in connection with a letter of reference for a job that I have recently app lied. As I am due to
graduate next month, I have applied for a position as an EFL teacher at a p rivate language school in Tokyo. You
might remember how very much I looked fo rwa rd to teaching and traveling around the world and I am
confident that I can make a di fference in the lives of students who need to learn English.

In the letter of reference, I w ou ld appreciate it if yo u cou ld include information re lated t o, my enthusiasm and
cross- cultu ral awa reness. As the j ob is in Japan, they can not interview me and will base t heir decision la rgely
on th is recommend at ion let ter. I would need to have t he letter in two weeks, by July 1st.

Enclosed is a stamped envelope add ressed to my new workplace for your con venience. Thank you in advance
for any help you ca n give me. ( 184 words)

Best regards for best t eachers,

Sample 14 Borrowing I For mal letter

You borrowed some books from your school or college library. Unfortunately, you have to go away to visit a sick
relative and cannot return the books in time. Write a letter to the library.
• explain what has happened
• tell them what you want to do about it.

Dea·r_____ __

I am w riting t his letter to expla in why I have been unable to return the three books I have out on th ree- day
loan, which are now overdue. After t a ki ng t he books out on 16th March , I had an urgent phone ca ll from my
elder ly aunt's neighbour to say that my au nt had had a fall a nd had been taken into hospital. I a m her only
surviving relative in t his country, so I felt I had to go and see her immediately. I travelled down to Surrey the
following morning, t hinking I wou ld stay for only two or three days. Unfortunat ely, m y aunt 's condition has only
improved very slowly, so I have had to stay here longe r tha n expected. However, the hospital says that if all
goes well, she should be a ble to go home in two or th ree day's time, in which case I will be back at t he
beginning of next week.

Bearing in mind the ci rcumstances, I t rust yo u will kind ly waive any fi nes that may have accumu lated.
( 170 words)

Yo urs sincerely,
100 Classified & Standard Samples - Task 1 (GT)

Sample 1S Borrowing I Formal letter

You are an international student and have borrowed a bookfr0111 the local public library.
You left the book on a bus and when you contacted the bus company, they could not find it.
Write a letter to the librarian
• explain the situation
• ask what you should do.

Dear_ _ _ _ __

Last week I borrowed an English grammar book, ' English Grammar Exercises' from your library to help me
improve my knowledge of English. It was extremely useful, ~ when I went to visit a friend I t ook the book with
me to show her how good it was. Unfortunately, when I was on the bus going home, I fell asleep and m issed
my bus stop. I woke up at the next stop and rushed forward to the driver to ask him to stop but forgot to bring
the book. As a result, the book was left on the bus. When I rang the bus company the next day, they cou ld not
find it and suggested that somebody must have picked it up.

Could you please let me know what I have to do now? As I am an internationa l stu dent I do not have very
much money, but of course I will pay for a new copy of the book if this is necessary. (163 words)

Yours faithfully,

Sample 16 Borrowing I Semi-formal / Informal letter

You borrowed an important textbook from a classmate last tenn. You now realise your classmate has returned home
overseas and you have still have the book.
Write a letter to him/her. In your letter
• aplogise for the mistake
• find out how important the book is to him/ her
• say what you will do.

Dear_ _ __ __

I hope you had a safe journey back to Japan, and that your family are all we ll.

I am writing to say that I'm sorry for not giving you back the 'English Grammar in Use' wh ich I borrowed from
you last term . You lent it to me just before the exams to help me prepare for them, and yesterday I found it
under my bed. Please let me know straight away if you need this book for your studies right now Q[ whether
you can manage without it.

If you really need it, I can send it to you by airmail immediately. If not, do you mind if I post it by ordinary mail
as it is quite heavy? Qr, if you prefer, I can send some money instead . Please let me know what you want me
to do.

I hope you enjoy the holiday and give your parents my regards. ( 151 words)

Best wishes,
 Classified & Standard Sample s - Task 1 ( GT)
101

Sample 17 Lost items / Formal letter

You stayed at a !tote/ last week. After you got home you realised tltat you had left your watch behind.
Write a letter lo the !tote/ manager
• explain what happened
• describe tlte watch
• ask tit em to help you find it.

Dear_ _ _ _ _ _

My friend and I were guests in your hotel last week. We stayed in Room 101 from September the 4th until
September the 9th. When I arrived home in Taiwan on the 11th, I realised that I didn't have my watch. The last
time I saw my watch was in the hotel room on t he morning that we left. I think I may have accidentally left it
on the bed.

My lady's watch has a chrome wristba nd . There is a yellow moon on the face of the watch with a bluish-black
backgrou nd . The brand of the watch is TIMEOUT.

This piece of jewellery is not worth a lot of money, but it has sentimenta l value to me. It was the last gift my
grandmother gave me before she passed away. I was wondering if you could ask your staff if they have seen it.
Perhaps you could also check in the hotel's lost and found property in case I left it at the hotel restaurant or in
a public washroom . Please call me if you find it. I will send you a ch eque t o pay for t he post age.

Thank you for your help. ( 193 words)

Sincerely,

Sample 18 Lost items / Formal letter

You have just spent a weekend staying at the Lilo Hotel in A delaide. When you get home, you find that you have left
a bag at the hotel Write to the manager of the hotel and enquire whether the bag ltas been found.
• give any relevant information about the bag and its contents.
• ask tlte manager to contact you immediately if the bag is fo und
• tell him/lter how the bag can be sent to yo1L

Dear_ _ _ __ _

I stayed in your hotel on the 23rd and the 24th of October. I was in room 603. When I arrived home I discovered
that I had left one of my bags at the hotel. Could you please check your Lost and Found department and see if
my bag is there?

Th e bag is small, black leather, document case with a narrow strap. Inside the bag you wil l find several
business cards, a Mont Blanc fountain pen, a small address book and three copies of a business proposal, also,
a silver pocket calculator. These things are not very valuab le in money terms but t hey have a lot of personal
value.

I wou ld appreciate it if you could contact me as soon as possible, particu larly since I need the proposals for a
presentation this week. If you could send the bag to me by courier service I would be most grat eful. I have
arranged to pay for the service on delivery.
Thank you for your help. (165 words)

Yours sincerely,
 Classified & Standard Samples - Task 1 (GT}
102

Sample 19 Lost items / Semi formal letter {Friendly)

You have just returned home after living with a family in an English-speaking country for six months.
You now realise that you left a small bag ofpersonal possessions in your room.
Write to the family
• describe the things you left behind
• ask them to send some or all of them to you
• offer to cover the costs.

Dear_ _ __ __

I hope you are all well. The flight home seemed very long but my family all came to meet me at the a ir point,
which was fantastic . Thank you so much for having me - I enjoy m y time with you very much.

I have a favour to ask. When I got home, I realised that I had left a small black handbag in my bedroom.
You may reca ll that I bought myself a new bag while I was in Sydney and I 'm pretty sure I put the old one
under the bed.

I don't really need the bag but some of the things inside are of sentimental va lue and I would be very grateful
if you cou ld send them to me. There is a red address book, a small leather wallet with some photos and a silver
necklace. None of the other things are important so please don't worry about them. Could you please let me
know how much the postage is and I will send you the money to cover the cost.

Looking forward to hearing from you soon. Thank you once again for your help. (198 words)

Love to all the family,

Sample 20 Lost items / Formal letter

You have received a letter from your bank, asking you to acknowledge receipt of a new bank card. However,
the card was missing from the envelope. Write a letter to the bank's head office. In your letter
• explain why you are writing
• express concern about the missing card
• ask them what they intend to do.

Dear_ _ _ _ __

I am writing in connection with a missing or stolen debit card from your bank. My bank card number is
4474 6558 8365 42658.

Just yesterday, I received a letter from your bank's head office. It stated that my new bank card was enclosed
and asked me to acknowledge receipt. Howeve r, when the envelope arrived in my mailbox, it was in a tattered
state. More importantly, the debit card which was supposed to be included, was missing . I checked and
rechecked around the mailbox, but found nothing. I am concerned that someone has gone through my mail and
possibly stolen the card .

For this reason, I request that you cancel the existing debit card immediately. The debit card in question is
related to my account number 123456 at your 'Bay' branch. After it has been cancelled, please arrange to send
me a new one, as I need to travel overseas next week and will need to carry the new bank card with me.

Thank you kindly in advance, (168 words)

Yours faithfully,
 Classified & Standard Sample s - T as k 1 ( GT)
1 03

Sample 21 Lost item s / For mal letter

Yesterday you lost your sttulent identification card. You need it to get discounts 0 11 p ublic transport and f or the
cinema, and to use the college library. Even more importantly, you need it as a p roof of identity to withdraw money
at the bank. Write to the Director ofStudent Services
• explain the situation
• request a new card as soon as possible.

Dear_ _ _ _ __

I am writ ing to advise you that I lost my student identification ca rd yesterday and to ask for a new card to be
issued as quickly as possible. There are several reasons why I need a new ca rd by t he end of this week.

I live in the out er suburbs an d depend on both trains an d buses to get to class every day. I ~ need a student
card to be able to borrow li brary books to com plete my assign ments. Less importantly, I cannot afford to go the
cinema unless I leave a student discount. Again, I need the card for that.

Most importantly, however, I use this ca rd as proof of identification when wit hd rawi ng money from the bank.
This week I have to pay rent for next month and will have to withdraw a large amount of money to cover this.
I pay the rent by bank cheque.

I apologise for any inconvenience caused. (155 words)

You rs faithfully,

Sample 22 Lost items & Complaint / Formal letter

You were invited to a foreign country to give some workshops and a seminar. Your flight was cancelled. You had to
take another flight. 0 11 arrival at the airport, you f ound out that yo ur luggage had been lost. You applied to the
missing luggage department and they promised to find your bags soon. You got your suitcases only two days later.
Write a letter to 'Flash A ir line' M anager. In your letter, write about the problem s and inconveniences that the
incident caused to you. Claim f or compe11satio11.

Dea r_ _ __ __

I am writ ing t o cla im for compensation for the expenses I had to have due to the poor service of your
company's luggage department . I was supposed to fly from London t o Mel bourne by t he 'Flash Air Line' - Flight
No : 12 34. The fl ights were cancelled and there was a lot of co nfusion and mix- ups befo re I was rebooked on
two different flights. As a result, I arrived 9 hours later; instead of 22 April, at 20.45. I reached Melbourne on
23 April, at 4.45. But t hat's not all. My luggage was missing for more than 30 hours and I received it only on 24
Apri l, at night - I am a visiting technica l trainer, coming down as a lect urer on an Association's invitat ion.
Due to the above event, I had to cancel my first seminar on 23 April t hat was re-arranged for 24 April, at 11
AM. When I ca lled the lost and fou nd luggage department on 23 April, I was informed that they expected my
luggage to be flown here and delivered on 24 Ap ril , in the morning. When I rang t hem again early in the
morning the following day, I was informed t hat my luggage had not arrived yet , and expected to be brought
and delivered hopefully in the afternoon. I had no rights or intentio n to cancel my seminar again. In addition,
the weather was rea lly cold, an d I was left in a foreign city in a tracksuit and slippers, and had to buy necessary
clothes to protect myself from th e cold an d to be dressed properly to meet my colleagues and t rainees . I have
bought a minimum of necessit ies: (jeans$ 94.00; casual t op$ 69.50; shoes$ 100.00). Please fin d photocop ies
of the receipts enclosed.
I can not concea l my disappointment . I hope that the situation can be resolved by proper an d prompt
compensation. (306 words)

Yours faithfully,
104 Classified & Standard Samples - Task 1 (GT)

Sample 23 Lost & Stolen items / Formal letter

Write to your embassy of origin about your stolen passport In your letter
• explain what happened
• give details ofyour passport
• ask what you should do to get a new passport.

Dear_ _ _ __ _

I am writing to report the theft of my passport. I am currently studying economics at Leeds University, and
I came to Britain in September last year. My course here ends in September next yea r .

I lost my passport at Leeds bus station on 9 October. I was about to ca tch the 10.30 morni ng bus to London,
a nd I was having a cup of coffee at the snack bar in the bus station while I wa ited. The passport was in my
overnight bag, which I carried on m y shoulder. This must have been snatched while I was drinking the coffee,
although I did not notice it had gone until I left the snack bar at 10: 20.

I have reported the theft to the poli ce. Their reference number for the case is CX241, at Leeds Central Police
Station. My passport number is A12 3456, date of issue 28/2/2002 and t he date of expiry is 27/ 2/2012.

I would be grateful if you could inform me what I have to do to obtain another passport. Do I need to provide
photog raphs and, if so, how many? Please let me know the cost of a new passport and the currency in wh ich
I should pay for it. {202 words)

Yours faithfully,

Sample 24 Bank-related / Formal letter

You have hat/ a bank account/or a few years. Recently you received <1 letter from tire bank stating that your account
is $240 overdrawn and that you will be charged $70 which will be taken directly from your account. You know that
this information is incorrect. Write a letter to the bank.
• explain what has happened
• say what you would like them to do about ii.

Dear_ __ _ __

I am writing in reply to a letter I received from you a few days ag o. In your letter you state that I am $240
overdrawn and that you will be charging me $70.

I would like to point out that the reason I am overdrawn is because of a m istake made by you r bank . If you
look thro ugh your records you will see that I wrote several weeks ago explaining the situation . For the last
twelve months, I have been paying $300 a month for a car I bought last summer. The monthly payments were
taken directly from my bank acco unt. However, two months ago I sold the car and I wrote to you instructing
you to stop paying the monthly instalments. I received a letter from you acknowledging my request, .t.llit, for
some reaso n, nothing w as done about it. Another $300 instalment has been paid th is month and this is the
reason why I am overdrawn.

I would li ke you to contact the garage where I bought t he car expla ining your error. I wo uld also like you to ask
them to return the money. (186 words)

Yours faithfully,
 Classified & Standard Samples - Task 1 (GT)
105

Sample 25 Bank-related / Formal letter

You had a credit card with the same company for several years and you always pay your bill on time. Your most
recent bill included a $35 charge f or late paym ent because, according to the company, you didn 't pay the previous
month. You know that you paid on time. Write a letter to the credit card company.
• explain what has happened
• say what you would like them to do about il

I am writing to inform you that there appea rs to be an error on my statement. My bill for this month co ntained
an incorrect late payment charge . [Credit card no: 4456 6945 4251 9864, Cardholder : John Sm ith].
I was surprised to read th is. My last payment was definitely made on time. To be sure, I checked my records.
They show that I wrote and mailed a cheque to you fifteen days before it was due. ~ I ca lled my bank and
t hey checked th eir records . They say that you r compa n y cashed t he cheque fiv e days before the pay ment was
due.

I am very concerned about t his mistake. Please remove this late charge fro m my credit card . I would like to
have your mistake corrected as soon as possible and within the next 30 days. I always make my pay ments on
time, so seeing t h is charge upsets me.

Please contact me immediately if you have any questions about this letter. I want to be su re t hat my credit
record with your company continues to be excellent. (175 words)

Sincerely,

Sample 26 Bank-related I Formal letter

As an international student in Australia, 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
local bank. /11 your letter
• introduce yourself and ask for a loan
• say why you need the money
• tell how you intend to pay back the money.

Dear_ _ _ __ _

I am an international student from Malaysia studying Business Administration at Sydney University; I have
had my account with you for about two yea rs since I arrived in Australia and have always kept t his accoun t in
credit. I am writing to request a temporary l o a n ~ I can meet my expenses this month .

My parents send me a regu lar bank transfer of $2,000 every month. Until now, I have alwa ys received t his
monthly bank transfer without any difficulty. Unfortunately , however, there has been an error at t he bank
branch in Kuala Lumpur and~ my parents have not been able to send me money this month. This will be a
problem for me because I have to pay to my landlord, a rent of $800 per month which is due next week.
I also need money to cover my g enera l living expenses.

I estimate that I will be able to keep my living expenses down to $600 th is month in order to save money.
I would therefo re like to request a temporary loan of $400 for a ma xi mum period of one mont h until my
parents' bank transfer arrives. Your assistance would be greatly appreciat ed .

I look forward to hearing from you soon . (202 words)

Yours faithfu lly ,

106 Classified & Standard Samples - Task 1 {GT)

Sample 27 Job application I Recommendation I Formal letter

Write a letter to recommend a11 employee ofyour company. In your letter

• write about his/her employment status
• write about his/her responsibilities and any particular skills he/she Juul.

Dear_ _ _ _ __

We hereby testify that Miss Marie Obregon has been employed in our export department for three years.

Miss Obregon joined our staff as a junior secretary on March 1, 19, 2010. It has continuously been her aim to
improve her professional ability. She took evening courses in secretarial practice and English and a year ago
became private secretary to our export manager, frequently handl ing Spanish and English correspondence
independently. She was responsible for arranging sales promotion meetings, and 'preparing reports and
minutes.

Miss Obregon was willing and able to take on increased responsibi lity where necessary, often acting as an
interpreter in our connections with Eng lish-speaking people. She has excellent verba l communication skills
and her professional qualifications have been of great benefit to our company.

She is giving up her position to get married in May. In taking leave of Miss Obregon, our company gratefully
recognises the help given and offers a wholehearted recommendation. (153 words)

Yours faithfully,

CEO {UltraModern Computers Inc)

Sample 28 Job application / Recommendation / Formal letter

A colleague ofyours, Alice Watson has applied for a job in the public relations department of a large charity.
You have been asked to write a letter providing a character reference for her. In your letter
• indicate how long and in what capacity you have worked with her
• include how her persunal characteristics would make her suited for the job.

Dear_ _ _ _ __

I have been asked to write this reference for Ms Alice Watson, who worked with me for almost four years in the
Head Office of the charity Children in Need. I was her immediate supervisor in the publicity department of that
organisation, so I was able to observe her work at close quarters and feel qualified to evaluate her suitability
for similar positions.

Ms Watson was extremely committed to her work and always performed to the highest standard . Her tasks
included checking press releases and writing letters to a wide variety of recipients, and she displayed first-class
communication skills. The executives of the organisation found her entirely trustworthy, and she always carried
out her work cheerfully and efficiently.

I understand that Ms Watson has applied for the position of Public Relations coordinator, which I imagine entails
consid erable responsibility. I have no hesitation in recommending her for this position, and I am certain she will
prove an excellent and hard-working member of your organisation. Naturally, I would be very happy to supply
any further information, so please do not hesitate to contact me if this shou ld be required. ( 187 words)

Yours faithfully,

Publ ic Relation Officer- Children in Need

 Classified & Standard Samples - Task 1 (GT)
107

Sample 29 lob application / Formal letter

You work in a busy but poorly organised office and you are keen to be promoted. You r employer needs to find a new
supervisor for your department. Write a letter to your employer.
• 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.

Dear_ _ _ _ __

It is now three years since I joined this company and whi le I find my current position of administrative assistant
very rewarding. I feel I am ready to take on a more challenging ro le. 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. ~ 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 were given the
opportunity to manage this area then I would plan to gradually update these systems so that the office can run
more sm ooth ly.

I am an enthusiastic and energetic employee and I feel that I am well qualified for this role.
I wou ld be grateful if you could consider me for this position. ( 171 words)

Yours sincerely,

Sample 30 lob application / Formal letter

You saw an ad telling about an expedition team. You would like to apply as a team member.
Write a letter. In your letter
• apply for the vacancy
• describe yourself (mental or physical) and ask for an interview.

Dear_ _ _ _ _ _

I am very interested in your advertisement in today's edition of The Good Times and I should like to apply to be
a member of the Amazon Expedition team.

I am twenty three years old and have an honours degree in Botany from the Bath University. Since leaving
university I have been working in a laboratory .b..Y1 my contract comes to an end in six weeks. I would
particularly like to join the expedition for the opportunity it would give me to study the plant life of the area .

I enjoy several outdoor activities including rowing and rock cl imbing and I consider myself to be both fit and
healthy enough to undertake such an expedition.

If you would like me to attend an interview, I would be able to come at any t ime convenient to you,~ my
employers have agreed to give t ime off for this purpose.

I look forward to hearing from you. ( 155 words)

[email protected]

Yours faithfully,

Enclosed find my resume

108 Classified & Standard Samples - T ask 1 (GT)

Sample 31 lob application I Formal letter

A large company needs an English-speaking (project manager, supervisor, assistant, clerk, accountant,financial
analyst, engineer, technician, tmns/ator, designer, salesperson .. .) for a project.
Choose one of these jobs and write a letter of application
• include any relevant educational background and practical experiences you have in your cover letter.

I would like to apply for the position as advertised in the 'Good Times' of 22 May; I am enclosing a resume for
your review. I think the job specification as described is a very close match to my own experience

I am an experienced financial analyst and consultant, having worked extensively in this sector in Frankfurt and
more recently in London. I believe I possess the right combination of management and organisational skills.
I am proactive and able to handle multiple tasks simultaneously. I am currently looking for a position that will
allow me to develop my skills and experience in a dynamic commercial team.

I believe that my academic qualifications and internationa l financial experience would be of benefit to your
company. I also have a thorough understanding of the relevant software systems as well as excellent verbal
and written communication skills.

My present position is subject to one month 's notice, after which I would be able to relocate to any part of the
country if necessary.

I thank you for your consideration and remain at your disposal for any further information. I look forward to
meeting you in the near future . ( 193 words)

Yours faithfully,

References available on request

Sample 32 lob application / Formal letter

A large company needs an English-speaking (project ·manager, supervisor, assistant, clerk, accountant,financial
analyst, engineer, technician, translator, designer, salesperson .. .) for a project.
Choose one of these jobs and write a letter of application
• include any relevant educational background and practical experiences you have in your cover letter.

Dear_ _ _ _ _ __

I would like to apply for the position of chemist advertised in Sunday's Good Times. I am, therefo re, enclosing
my resume for your consideration.

As my resume indicates, I have a very strong background in applied research. While obtaining my Ph.D. in
Chemistry, I specialised in basic research . More recently, during several yea rs of work for DEF Laboratories,
I have focused on applied research for client firms in a va riety of industries. I also have an excellent record as a
project manager.

I have worked as a consu ltant for a variety of R&D departments; a job that requires considerabl e travel.
I would prefer to work in the product development department of a large and reputable fi rm like XYZ Plastics.
Since most of my best work has been done with plastics, I believe I would be an especially good fit for t he open
position at your company .

I would be pleased to provide you with references and any additional information you might need.
I look forward to meeting or ta lking with you soon.

Yours faithfully,

Enclosure: Resume
 Classified & Standard Samples - Task 1 {GT)
109

Sample 33 Job application / Formal letter

A large company needs an English-speaking (project manager, supervisor, assistant, clerk, accountant, financial
analyst, engineer, technician, translator, designer, salesperson ...) for a project. Choose one of these jobs and write a
letter of application
• include any relevant educational background and practical experiences you have in your cover letter.

Dear_ _ _ _ _ __

I would like to apply for the position advertised in the ' Plan Today' on 16 June for a Personal Assistant.

As you will see from my CV, much of the work I do in my present position is that of a PA. I deal not only with
the routine work of a secretary, but also represent the Assistant Director at small meetings and functions, and
am delegated to take a number of policy decisions in his absence.

I am also familiar with the latest developments in Information Technology; having just completed a one-month
course at 'The City College' . I am an experienced user of a wide range of database administration software and
programming languages including SQL Server and C+ +. I am particularly interested in the situation you are
offering, as I would like to become more involved with an IT organisation. As well as my secretarial skills and
ex perience of running a busy office, I am used to working with technicians and other specialised personnel in
the field of computers. I have a genuine interest in computer development and the people involved in this
profession.

Plea se let me know if there is any further information you require . I ca n be reached at 5555555 after 6:00 pm .
I look forward to hearing from you . (213 words)

Yours sincerely,

Enclosure: Resume

Sample 34 Job application I Formal letter

A large company needs an English-speaking (project manager, supervisor, assistant, clerk, accountant,financial
analyst, engineer, technician, translator, designer, salesperson .. .) for a project.
Choose one of these jobs and write a letter of application
• include any relevant educational background and practical experiences you have in your cover letter.

The HR Director

Dear_ _ __ _ __

I am writing to apply for the post of assistant designer advertised in the 'Evening Post' of 18 April. Please find
enclosed a copy of my CV which will give you all th e pertinent information about my qualifications for this
position.

Since graduating from Cardiff University I have been working for EMS Corporate Imagining on a contract basis.
I have become particularly interested in interactive and multimedia work and now wish to develop my ca reer in
that direction.

I wou ld welcome the chance to work as part of a dynamic team where I could make a significant contribution
while developing m y skills yet further. Since I am keen to develop m y career, I think my qualification would be
of benefit to yo ur company. I wou ld be happy to show you a portfolio of my work.

I am available for int erview next week and look forward to hearing from you . (150 words)

Yours faithfully,

Enclosed is a copy of my resume

110 Classified & Standard Samples - Task 1 (GT}

Sample 35 Job application I Formal letter

You have decided to apply for a job as a Spanish instructor that was advertised in the April edition of the
magazine Teaching Professional. This ad was posted by Mr. John Sullivan, director of the Spanish
department at The Language Institute of Great Britain in London, England. In your letter to Mr. S ullivan:
• explain why you are writing
• describe your qualifications and experience
• explain how they can contact you.
Dear_ _ _ _ __

I am writing to apply for the post of teacher of Spa nish, which I saw advertised in the April edition of t he
magazine, Tea ching Professional. Please find enclosed m y CV.

I feel I have many of the important qualifications needed fo r this job . I have Bachelor's degrees in Spanish and
Linguistics, and have worked extensively with young adults, t eaching Spanish both in Liverpool, England and
Bogota, Colombia.

My stud ies at the Univ ersity of Miami included psychology, linguistics and education, which have g iven me an
in-depth understanding of the behaviour of young adults, as well as the cognitive and psychological factors that
affect their learning. The ch ildren in my care respect my leadership abilities and I establish excellent wo rking
relationships with them and their parents.

In addition, I have considerable experience in organising educational and cu ltural events, in particular theatrical
performances and art displays. I have travelled wide ly and enjoy meeting new people.

Should you be interested in m y qualifications and experience as a teacher, please do not hesitate to co ntact me
at 555- 55555 .. I look forward to hearing from you . ( 180 words)

Sincerely,

Sample 36 Job-related information / Formal letter

You are due to start a new job next week but you will not be able to because you have some problems. Write a letter
to your new employer. In your letter
• explain your situation
• describe your problems
• tell him/ her when you think you can start.

Dear_ __ _ __

I am writing concerni ng the position of Assista nt Officer Manager t hat I am due t o begin next Monday .
However, a problem has arisen.

As you know, I currently work for my uncle's food-packing business, and you will rem ember from m y interview
that I have gained valuable experience t here . Unfortu nately, he has had to go into hospital for an operation,
leaving my aunt in charge of both the home an d the business. She has asked me, as this is a particularly busy
time of year, to stay on and help her with the running of t he office .

I realise th is will be inconvenient to you, but very m uch hope t hat, given t he circumstances, yo u would be
prepared to allow me to take up my position with you two wee ks later than planned.

I would like to emphasise t hat I remain very keen to work with you, and that I will be gaining further usefu l
experience during this time.

I look forward to hearing from you . ( 164 word s)

You rs sincerely,
 Classified & Standard Samples - Task 1 (GT ) 111

Sample 37 Job-related information / Formal letter

You recently took a part-time job working for a local company. After a f ew weeks, you realised there were some
problems with the job.
Write a letter to the manager of the company. 111 your letter
• explain why you took the job
• describe the problems that you experienced
• suggest what could be done about them.

Dear_ __ _ __

I have been a part-time fitness instructor in your gym for four months. I was pleased to be offered the job, not
only because I need to earn some extra money to cover my living expenses but also because I w anted some
experience in fitness tra ining.

During these months, It has become obvious to me that people often need help in using the gym equipment.
However, it seems tha t the other t rainers have not been encouraged to offer assistance to club members.
I offer as much as I can, but this means that I am constantly in demand and therefore, wo rki ng harder than
anyone else in the gym. This situation seems rather unfair.

While I realise that members receive initial gym instruction , I feel that they also need ongoing help with t he
equipment. Could I su ggest that a letter is sent to tra iners promoting this? After all, personal attention of this
kind makes people feel valued and may result in increased membersh ip. (162 words)

Yours faithfully,

Sample 38 Job-related information / Informal letter

You have recently started work in a new company.

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

Dear_ _ __ __

I hope this finds you and your family well, and I 'm sorry I haven't been in touch recently. I'm writing now to let
you know about my new job.

You remember that I was working for that const ruction co mpany a few miles outside the city? Well, I just got
so fed up with it - I was working really long hours and, to be honest, the pay wasn't great. So basically I
applied for a job at a new international company that was looking for adm in staff for a new branch in the city
~ntre. .

I was a bit nervous in the interview, but in t he end I got a job as one of the senior administ rators . I am so
happy! The pay is better, the worki ng conditions are great and I don't have to drive to work anymore.

Anyway, I have to stop now because my sister is staying with me a nd has brought my baby nephew t o meet
me. She sends you lots of love and is asking when we can all meet up. Soon, I hope. ( 179 words)

With love,
112 Clas sified & Standard Sample s - Task 1 (GT)

Sample 39 Job- related information/ (Semi) Formal letter

You are working f or a company. You need to take some time off work and want to ask your manager about this.
Write a letter to your manager. In your letter
• explain why you want to take time off work
• give details of the amount of time you need
• suggest how your work could be covered while you are away.

Dear_ _ _ __ _

I am writing to request some unpaid leave next month .

My parents, 60th wedding anniversary is on March 21•t, and they are planning to celebrate t h is significant
achi evement with all their children and grandchildren. To do t his, they have rented a house big enough to
accommodate the whole family.

To participate in this special occasion, I would need to be away from work for four days, from Monday 19th t o
Thursday 23'd. My schedule for t hat week is relatively light, apart from t wo meetings with cl ients. Netta wou ld
be able to attend t hese in my place, as she has had previous dealings with both companies and knows the
relevant staff there. I have no other urgent work commitm ents at that t ime.

I would be very gratefu l if you could allow me t his time, t hese few days are very important t o my pa rents and
the whole fam ily it would be a way t o thank them for all the support they have given me. ( 162 words)

Best wishes,

Sample 40 Missed appointment/ Formal letter

You missed an interview appointment because of the problem that you had.
Writer a letter of apology. In your letter
• express your regret and explain what happened
• explain why you can be a suitable candidate
• ask f or another appointment

Dear_ _ __ _ _

I am very sorry that I m issed our scheduled appoint ment last Tuesday. I attem pted t o get a message to you
that my car broke down in the m iddle of 1-80 and I needed to imm ediately deal with towing and subsequent
repairs. I hope you received my message and were not too inco nvenienced.

I believe that our meet ing could be very important to me. fil we discussed previously, the work your company
is involved in interests me t remendously. I think I can be an active member of your organisation as I enjoy
being a team player, relish learning new tasks and excel in handling m ultiple projects concu rrently. I have an
excellent record of managing projects~ they are com pleted correctly, on t ime and with in budget . I am
~ proficient in several essent ial design and project-related software programmes.

I wi ll call your office wit hin the week to reschedule another appointment t hat is convenient fo r you.
Thank you for yo ur time and consideration. (1 61 wo rds)

Yours faithfully,

(Appl ication Form No: 123)

 Classified & Standard Samples - Task 1 (GT)
113

Sample 41 Notice of cancellation / Formal letter

For the past year you have been a member ofa local club. Now you want to discontinue your membership.
Write a letter to the club secretary. In your letter
• state what type of membership you have and how you have paid for this
• give details of how you have benefited from the club
• explain why you want to leave.

Dear_ _ _ __ _

In September 2003, I joined your Sports and Social club as a full-time student member. Since then I have paid
t he monthly membership fees by direct debit from my bank: Nationwide in Sanderson Avenue, Kinghill.

I have thoroughly enjoyed my club membership as it has provided me with useful opportu nities to meet up with
other young people and to participate in a number of social activities. I have a lso been fortunate enough to play
in some of t he inter-clu b tennis tournaments and have taken advantage of the various classes availa ble such as
Yoga and T'ai chi.

However, my studies are now coming to an end and as I will shortly be return ing to my home country, possibly
for good, I regret that I no longer wish to continue my membership.

I wo uld be grateful, therefore, if you could confirm in writing t hat the monthly fee will no longer be deducted
from m y bank account. (154 words)

Yours faithfully,

Sample 42 Dissatisfaction / Formal letter

You have recently bought a product from a local retailer, but it had already been used.
Write a letter ofcomplaint. In your letter
• say when you bought it
• explain the situation
• ask for a refund or replacement.

For the attention of t he Sales Manager

Dear_ __ _ _ __,

On 15th June, I purchased o ne of your products through a local retailer and I was very u pset to find that it did
not work as expected. [Receipt: 1234). I have been a very loyal customer of yo ur company for many years and
th is is certainly not the quality that I have come to expect from you.

Under normal circumstances, I would simply return this item to the store, but I was told that th is is not an
option, since the item had already been used. Well, of co urse the item had already been used, as there would
be no other way for me to learn that it was defective!

I do not believe that I am asking for much in return for my ti me and effort, as all I want is my money back or
to have this product replaced with one that works properly. I will gladly return t he defective item t o you .
Please send a postage-prepaid box to my house . I look forwa rd to receivi ng yo ur reply. (170 words)

Yours faithfully,
114 Classified & Standard Samples - Task 1 {GT)

Sample 43 Dissatisfaction / Formal letter

You recently bought a digital camera. You discovered that it was damaged and some components were missing.
• say what you bought
• describe the problems
• suggest what should be done.

Re: P0 # 123456 ; 8. lMP Saturn Digital Camera Model #5562

Dear_ _ __ _ _

For the past 8 years, I have been purchasing and using y our digital camera products and I have been satisfied
with the results . However, I recently received a digital camera manufactu red by your company. This letter is to
complain about th e unsatisfactory service I received when I purchased the 8. lMP Saturn Dig ita l Camera Model
# 5562 from your local branch at the ABC Mall. Upon the delivery of the product, I found that it was damaged.
It was missing the lens cap and the memory card slot in the camera is heavily scratched ev en before I used it.

I was expecting a higher level of service from your compan y, and I am rea lly disappointed wit h how things
tu rned out. This is why I am returning the camera for a full refund or a proper exchange for a new one since
the produ ct is still within its warranty period.

I have been using many of your products in t he past with out any trouble. I hope to continue to have a good
relationship with your company. I look forwa rd to hearing from you with a resolution to this problem.
You ca n contact me in the following ways.
TEL/FAX: 555-55555

Yours faithfully,

Sample 44 Dissatisfaction I Formal letter

You recently bought a camera while travelling overseas. When you got to your destination you discovered that some
important item s were missing f rom the box.
Write a letter to the local representative of the company. In your letter
• give details of the camera and where you bought it
• explain what has happened
• say what you want him/her to do about it.

Dear_ __ __ _

I am writing in the hope that you can help me with a problem regarding a camera t hat I recently bought.

On 24 April, I purchased a Tycoon digital SLR camera from the 'Golden Duty Free' store at Bangkok Airport on
my way from Auckland to London. The camera cost $599 and I paid for it on my Visa credit card.

When I arrived at my hotel in London almost 24 hours later, I discovered, to my horror, that the box wh ich
contained the camera did not include t he battery or the battery cha rger. The space in t he box for th e charger
wa s empty.

I am now in London and I am not returning to Bangkok, so I need to get the missing parts here. As you are th e
representative of the compa ny in this cou ntry. I would be grateful if you could arrange for the parts to be sent
to me. I attach a copy of the receipt with this letter for your information.

I look forward to hearing from you. (173 words)

Yours faithfully,
 Classified & Standard Samples - Task 1 {GT) 115

Sample 45 Dissatisfaction / Formal letter

You recently bought a computer system. It went wrong almost immediately. Write a letter of complaint, in your letter
• explain the problem s
• suggest what should be done.

Dear_ _ _ __ _

On Nov. 27, 2012, I purchased a tablet system; product ID: 123456, Model#' iTecKit ', Pen & Touch from you r
store at 123 Main St in Anytown.

Unfortunately, the tablet does not work as intended. The Operating System seems to be corrupt. I checked it s
Property Menu and saw that the CPU cannot run all the installed applications. It often keeps freezing and
crashing . So I have to restart t he system repeated ly.

I purchased the tablet specifically to save time and schedule my daily activities . But practically, I ha ve paid for
a product wh ich is clearly not in working order . I have enclosed a copy of the receipt. Please let m e know as
soon as possible when I can return the faulty tablet and obtain a replacement.

I am looking forward to your reply and the resolution of this matter. I will wait t wo weeks before tu rning to the
Consumer Protection Bureau. Please contact me at the above address or call me on my mobil e number at
555-55555 . (170 words)

Yours faithfully,

Sample 46 Dissatisfaction / Formal letter

You bought a new mobile phone. But there was something wrong with it.
Write a letter of complaint to tlze shop. In your letter
• include the model and the date ofpurchase
• explain what happened
• ask for a refund.

Dear_ _ _ _ __

I am writing to express my extreme dissatisfaction about the mobile phone that I bought from your shop.
I purchased a white ' E-wire' mobile ph one; Luxury Model # 123456 last Wednesday, 16th April 2013.

Before I paid for it, we had tested the mobile phone, and it seemed to fu nction well. However, after three days
of using, it does not function properly. The main problem is that it often keeps going dead. Furthermore, the
Bluetooth and Wi-fi systems are not activated, and seem to have hardware problems. Yesterday, when I tried
to contact you by phone, no one could offer me any sensible answer. I called your shop and spoke with the shift
manager. He to ld me they would repair it withi n 48 hou rs, but no action has been taken yet. To be honest,
I am extremely disappointed with m y purchase and this is not what I expected.

I would like you to repla ce the phone with a well -functioning one. I expect to receive the same type of unit and
brand . Otherwise, unfortunately, I will be forced to report th is to the Customer Service Association responsible
for this problem .

I look forward to receiving a reply. (195 words)

Yours faithfully,
116 Classified & Standard Sample s - Task 1 ( GT)

Sample 47 Dissat isfaction / Formal letter

You have recently bought a DVD player from an online shop. The web p age said that it would play MP3 discs but
after taking it home you find out that it will only play CDs and D VDs.
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_ _ __ _ _

My name is Joh n Smith an d I am a new internet customer. On Monday I pu rchased a DVD player from your
online shop with a view to playing MP3 discs, CDs and DVDs only to find th at it will not play MP3 discs.

The web page stated that t he DVD player was a new model capable of playing MP3 discs but th is is clearly not
the case. I have tried to play MP3 discs but was una ble to do so. The user manual states quite clearly that it will
only play CDs and DVDs and not MP3 discs.

I wish to exchange t he model for one t hat will play MP3 discs. I d o not wish to spend a ny more so th e
replacement model must not more expensive. If you do not have a suit able replacement, then please contact
me by e-mai l so I can return the item for a fu ll refun d, incl uding post age and packaging costs. Please let me
know your postal address for ret urns.

I look forward t o your early response by e-mail, and I t rust th at you will u pdate your w eb page so that it
cont ains the correct information. {190 words)

Yours fait hfully,

Sample 48 Dissatisfaction / Formal lette r

You bought a new stereo system, but it went wrong almost immediately.
Write a letter of complaint to the shop. In your letter
• say when you bought it
• explain the problems
• ask for a full refund.

Dear _ _ __ _ _

I am writ ing to comp la in about this stereo that I bo ught in January [I nvoice No: 12345). After only two days,
t hings started t o go wrong.

The first problem was t he CD drawer which opened and closed far too quickly. I nearly trapped m y finger in it .
I recorded a CD on to a cassette. Everything worked but t he sound q uality was very poor. On t he following day,
the CD pause but t on stopped working.

Naturally, I returned t he stereo to you for repair. You r assist ant said I would have to wait only a week .
After two weeks, the necessary spare parts had not st ill arrived . Eventua lly, nine weeks later, I collect ed the
stereo. The CD player worked properly, but there was no improvement in th e recording q uality.

I a m not satisfi ed with t he equipment nor wit h the service I have received. I am t herefore writi ng to ask for a
full refund. I will t urn the stereo to your shop on Monday and I expect t o receive a cheque for 250 pounds.
( 171 words)

Yours faithfully,
 Classified & Standard Samples - Task 1 (GT)
117

Sample 49 Dissatisfaction / Formal letter

You bought an educational pack. You are not satisfied with your purchase. Write a letter. In your letter
• say what you bought
• specify the problems of the pack
• suggest a solution.

Dear_ _ _ _ __

I am writing to express my dissatisfaction about the instructional pack that I ordered on the 2"d of May.
There we re four different p rob lems relating to t he parcel I received.

Firstly the la ng uage pack you sent was for learners of Russian, not English. I clearly remem ber t icking the box
for the English pack. In addition to this, t he textbook mentioned in the advertisement was missing and one of
the two DVDs was scratched and impossible to play .

Out of interest, I watched the Russian v ideo and I am afraid to say t hat the pi cture quality was very poor.
I hope this is not typical of your videos.

Naturally I am still interested in learning English but I am not prepared to return the Russian pack to you until
I have received the co rrect replacement and checked the contents carefully. I also expect to receive a full
refund of t he cost of returning the Russian pack to you .

I look forward to hearing from you (163 words)

Yours faithfully ,

Sample 50 Dissatisfaction / Formal letter

You recently bought an item ofclothing from a shop. You discovered that it had a fault and returned it to the shop
for replacem ent or refund. However, the assistant told you that this was against the store's policy.
Write a letter to the store manager
• explain the problems you have had
• ask for a refund or exchange on the item.

Dear_ __ _ __

Re: fau lty j umper and refund refusal

On Wednesday 2nd January, I bought a green long-sleeved jumper from your store. The jumper wa s medium-
sized and made from cotton. It cost $59 .95 and it was not on special.

When I got home, I discovered that there was a small hole in the left sleeve. It looks like a rip of some kind and
the stitching has unravelled. I returned to your shop t he next day to ask for an identical replacement jumper.
Unfortunately there were none in stock. Therefore I asked for a refund. However, t he shop assistant refused to
g ive me a refund because it was not the policy of the store.

I am writing to demand a refund or, at the very least, a replacement jumper- the jumper is unwearable as it is
and I do not wa nt to buy anything else. I hope that you can assist me in this matter. If I do not get satisfaction,
I wi ll be forced to seek legal advice. (160 words)

Yours sincerely,
118 Class ified & Standard Sam ples - Tas k 1 (GT)

Sample S1 Dissatisfaction / Formal letter

You bought a jar ofpeanut. You are not pleased with it; about the quality of the product and behaviour of the staff
Write a letter of complaint. In your letter
• what the problems were
• ask for a refund or replacement.

Dear_ _ __ __

I am a long-time fan of your company and ha ve been more than satisfied with your products over the years.
I recently purchased a jar of ' Hea lthy & Delicious' peanut butter from my local supermarket, expecting the
same great taste I've always enjoyed . However, the peanut butter turned out to be gra iny and rancid, not at all
like the smooth and slightly sweet product that I'm used to.

I immed ia tely called the customer services section to alert them to the problem and spoke with a
representative named Janet. As I was explaining what was wrong and expressing my concern that other
products from your company may have been affected. When I finished speaking, she told me in a rather
impatient way that ' Healthy & Delicious' experience natural va riations from jar to jar and there was nothing t hat
co uld be done. I asked if I cou ld speak to a supervisor, only to be told again that there was nothing the
company could do. Janet disconnected the phone before I cou ld say anything else .

I am disappointed that a company like ' Hea lthy& Delicious' would provide such substandard customer service.
Enclosed please find a copy of the receipt with proof of purchase. I would appreciate a refund or replacement
product and hope that you will deal with this lapse in the customer services section accordingly. (222 words)

Yours faithfully,

Sample 52 Dissatisfaction / Formal letter

You have just bought a new wardrobe f rom a mail order company. Unfortunately, when it arrived you found that
one of the doors was missing. You would like the company to come and replace your wardrobe one afternoon next
week. Write a letter to the company asking them to come and collect the wardrobe and replace it with a new one.

Dear_ _ _ _ __

With reference to your order number 1234

Last week, I ordered a wardrobe from your mail order company . This was delivered yesterday morning.
Unfortunately, on trying to assemble the wardrobe, I discovered that one of the doors w as missing . Would it be
possible for you to send someone out with a replacement wardrobe one afternoon next week? If you are unable
to replace the wardrobe, please send someone to pick it up and refu nd my credit card for the amount of $225 .

Please could you telephone me to let me know when you will be coming, so that I can arrange to be home at
this t ime? Any t ime after 1.00 pm would be convenient for me, as I work in the morn ing .

I look forward to hearing from you as soon as possible and to receiving my new wardrobe.
Plea se give this matter your immediate attention. (150 words)

Yours faithfully,
 Classified & Standard Samples - Task 1 (GT)
119

Sample 53 Dissatisfaction / Formal letter

Write a letter complaining about a shampoo that you have bought

In your letter
• say when you bought it and the name of the product
• explain the problem s
• ask for a refund.

Dear_ _ _ __ _

I am writing to complain about one of your products. Last month, I bought a bottle of 'Nulife Shampoo',
manufactured by your company, after seeing it advertised on television. I used it three t imes, expecting that
it would make my hair lively and shiny, as cla imed in the telev ision commercial. On the contrary, however, my
hair became dry and lifeless. Worse still, it has started to go gray in places and caused skin problems. I had to
visit a dermatologist and he said that it is a serious irritation problem which needs urgent cure.

I therefore request that you refund the cost of the shampoo and compensate me for the damage to my hair.
I am writing t o let you know that if you fail to do so, I will make a formal complaint to the Advertising
Standards Bureau . My telephone number is 555-55555 .

Please look into this matter as soon as possible. (153 words)

Yours faithfully,

Sample 54 Dissatisfaction / Formal letter

You are not satisfied with the service offered by your ISP (Internet Service Provider).
Write a letter of complaint
• say when you subscribed
• describe the problems
• ask for a refund.

Dear_ _ _ _ __

On February 19, 2013, I subscribed to your company's Broadband Internet at the ABC Mall.
[Subscription Number: 123-456-789). I am disappointed because the service I have been receiving is
unsatisfactory . As mentioned in the ad, I was supposed to get a high speed ADSL connection but until this day,
I cannot remember a day when I did not get interruption. I have been trying to contact your customer support
representatives to help me regarding this matter, but it seems that my complaint continues to be unresolved
and neglected until this day.

To resolve this issue, I ask you to deactivate my subscription and refund t he payments I have made for the
past two months as this is clearly a breach of the contract I signed with your company.

I will be waiting for a resolution, if I do not hear from you in two weeks; I will be filing a com plaint to a higher
office . (155 words)

Sincerely Yours,
120 Classified & S.tandard Samples - Task 1 (GT)

Sample 55 Dissatisfaction / Formal letter

You recently bought a computer from a reputable computer store. The store agreed to deliver the computer flnd
set it up for you in yo ur home but when it was delivered, the delivery man claimed that this was not part of his job.
Write a letter to the manager of the store. In your letter
• say when you bought the computer and what the price included
• express dissatisfaction about what has occurred
• find out what they intend to do about it.

Dear_ __ _ _ _

On 3th May I purchased a 'Riteway' personal computer from you r city store. The price of $2, 500 included
delivery and set up in my home. However, when it was d elivered yesterday, the deliveryman was quite
unaware of t he agreement and left without setting up the computer for me.

Obviously this is not what I was expecting. I had taken the day off work to be at home when it was delivered ,
and was planning to use the computer that afternoon to write an urgent report. Not only is this very irritating,
but I feel it is false advertising to offer a service to attract customers, and then deny this later.

I now have a computer at home that is not functioning and I would like to know when you intend to send a
technician to my house to install it. Please ring me to discuss this matter urgently, or I shall have no alternative
but to return the computer to your store for a refund. I will also be in touch with the Consumers Association
and Riteway Computers. (178 words)

Yours faithfully,

Sample 56 Dissatisfaction / Formal letter

You bought som e items f rom a website. You have been charged, but the company that you purchased from, has not
delivered the item s within the promised time bracket You are not happy with your purchase.
Write a letter of complaint regarding the delay. I,, your letter
• say when and what you bought
• say that the items have not been delivered.
• ask the company to deal with your case and contact you.
Dea r_ _ __ _ _

I am writing to express my dissatisfaction about t he products that I have recently bought from your company.
On the morning of February 19, 2012, I browsed your website and found some items and decided to make a
purchase. [Item NO: A123 & 8123) . In your policy and billing conditions, there is a statem ent saying there will
be a prompt delivery of orders upon successful purchase. I checked out the items I chose. After a day, my
credit card firm confirmed that the tota l amount that I purchased had been debited from my account, but
unfortunately I have not received the items yet.

The items are comp rised of a TV set and a digital receiver. I have requested for these items to be delivered by
parcel post to my office address.

I want to draw your attention to this matter that all of my previous transactions with your fi rm have been more
than satisfactory, and sincerely hope that future transactions wil l improve. This is the first time I am
encountering this problem with your company.

I look forward to hearing from you. (182 words)

Yours faithfully,
 Classified & Standard Samples - Task 1 ( GT)
121

Sample 57 Dissatisfaction / Formal letter

You recently bought a washing machine, but it has not been delivered yel
Write a letter to the company. In your letter
• state the date ofyour purchase
• explain the problem
• ask the company to send you a new bill.

Dear_ _ _ __ _

On March 16th this y ear, after a visit to your branch on Albridge Drive, I ordered a ' Crysta lTec' washing
machine for delivery to my home address. On March 19th, I received a confirmation from you, indicating that
delivery wo uld take place in the week of March 25th to t he 31st.

On April 1st, the above ment ioned washing machine had still not been delivered . On the same day an employee
from your customer services department assured me on the telephone, that my ord er would be completed
within three days. After three days the washing mach ine was still undelivered, and I had received no
explanation from you. I called your customer services department again, where I was told there had been
problems with the supplier, but my order would be del ivered the same week. Eventua lly, t h is ha ppened on April
9th. Besides the fact that some mornings I was forced to take time off work to wait in vain for my order, I find
that your company has been very inadequate in providing information about the delay in the delivery t ime.

I therefore state that I do not agree with the surcharge for delivery costs of £22.50. Please send me a new bill,
in wh ich these costs are not included.

Awaiting your early reply, I remain. (217 words)

Yours faithfully,

Sample 58 Dissatisfaction / Formal letter

You booked a two-week holiday to Sydney with Fly-by-Night Travel. You are not happy with the holiday-the flight
was delayed, the hotel was noisy, and so on. Write to Fly-by-Night Travel to complain about the holiday
• give details about the problems
• request some compensation or refund.

Dear_ _ _ _ __

I am writing to complain about my recent holiday which was o rganised by your company. My wife and I selected
the two-week Wo men 's Weekly tour starting on 29 December. You r agency cla imed t hat we would be picked up
at the airport and that the hotel was three-star quality. The all-inclusive pr ice we paid woul d inclu ded breakfast
and dinner and two excursions.

On arrival at the airport, there w as no o ne to meet us. We waited for half an hour and then had no choice except
to take a taxi. This cost $30. The receipt is enclosed.

The hotel w as not what I would consider three-star. The room was dirty, and the beds were small and
uncomfortable. The breakfast portions were very small and the hotel refused to provide us with dinner. We had
to spend a further $500 for extra meals. Again, I enclose our restaurant receipts.

I find it dishonest and unacceptable that your company sold us a tour which in no way resembled t he
description, and my wife and I expect to be compensated for all our extra expenses. The receipts which are
enclosed total $530 . In addition, we claim a refund of $100 because the room was not up to the promised
standard.
We expect to receive your cheque for $630 very soon. (216 words)

Yours sincerely,
122 Classified & Standard Samples - Task 1 (GT)

Sample 59 Dissatisfaction/ Formal letter

Write a letter of complaint to a travel agency about your cancelled holiday. In your letter
• specify your package holiday
• describe the problems
• ask for a refund or discounl

Dear_ _ _ _ __

I am writing to co mpla in about my recent holiday, which was cancelled . [Package no: 1234)

I intended to go to the Solomon Islands, having already visited the Australian mainland. I was disappointed to
learn t hat you cut m y holiday short by 2 days and were sending me to the sam e places I had visited the year
before. In addition, the holiday I went on included none of the adventure activities in yo ur itinerary. At the
t ime, I was not offered a full refund .

What made the matter worse was that, I was only offered a twin room sharing with someone I did not know,
despite t he fa ct that I had paid the single room supplement. My luggage also arrived a week late because of a
delay ca used by yo ur company.

Although I enjoyed myself, it was not the holiday I wou ld have chosen. I fee l that I am entitled to part of my
money ba ck as co mpensation, and a fu ll refund of the £50 fo r the single room charge.

I hope you will give th is matter your urgent attention. (179 words)

You rs faithfully,

Sample 60 Dissatisfaction / Formal letter

Write a letter of complaint to the manager of the air line by which you travelled. In your letter
• write about the time and destination ofyour journey
• write about the problems
• say what you would like them to do about it.

Dear_ _ _ _ __

My wife and I and ou r two children , aged 2 and 4, were passengers on flight ABC123 from Rome to London on
June 23rd 2012. I am writing to com plain about a number of aspects of the service we received .

Firstly, when the flight was delay ed, the staff at the airline's information desk were very unhelpful. We were not
even given a voucher for a drink or meal, when it was clear the delay would be at least seven hours .
This mea nt that we had to spend a considerable amount of money in the restaurant.

Then, when we were finally able to board, families were not allowed to board first, although we had pa id fo r
this . As a result we were not able to sit together, making our children already very t ired and extremely
distressed .

It is a lega l req uirement for airline operators to provide suitable refreshments in the event of a delay . I wo uld
therefore expect some compensation for you r fai lure both to comply with this regu lation and t o provide us with
the priority boarding for wh ich we had paid.

I enclose our boarding passes and look forward to heari ng from you shortly. ( 193 words)

Yours faithfully
 Classified & Standard Samples - Task 1 (GT)
123

Sample 61 Dissatisfaction / Formal letter

Write a letter of complaint to the manager of the train station by which you travelled. In your letter
• write about the time and destination ofyour journey
• describe the problems
• say what you would like them to do about il

Dear_ __ __ _

I am writing to complain about the poor service provided by your train company. In fact, it was not what
I expected. In fact, I expected a better service from a company of your reputation.

Yesterday, I travelled on the 7 :20 from Oxford to London Paddington . Not only was the train thirty minutes late
leaving Oxford but we were further delayed at Reading and no explanation or apology was offered. What made
the matter worse was the air conditioning system. It broke down and the t rain got colder and co lder.
I complained to a member of staff, who was most unhelpful and unsympathetic.

As a result of the delays I was two hours late for an important meeting with a valuable client, which caused
conside rable difficulty and embarrassment.

I have enclosed a copy of my train ticket. I expect to be compensated for the inconvenience I have been
caused.

I look forward to hearing from you very soon . (159 words)

Yours faithfully,

Sample 62 Dissatisfaction / Formal letter

Write a letter of complaint to the manager of the train station by which you travelled. In your letter
• write about the time and destination ofyour journey
• describe the problems
• say what you would like them to do about it.

Dear_ _ _ _ __

La st Thursday, I travelled on the 8 :40 a.m . train from Glasgow to London King's Cross and I was very un happy
with the service provided by your company.

Th e train was forty minutes late leaving Glasgow, and a lthough the gua rd apologised, we were not g iven a
satisfactory reason for the delay. We then had further delays when the train crew changed at Preston and had
to wait another thirty minutes. As a result, I missed my flight from London Heathrow to Frankfurt and had to
wait for several hours .

Th e service on the train was also very poor. Despite the fact that journey takes over five hours, there was no
restaurant car on the tra in and only a buffet with poor quality snacks. Worst of all, the air conditioning broke
down half-way through the journey and the carriages just got hotter and hotter. However, there was no
apology fo r this, and by the time we reached King's Cross, the temperature was unbearable.

In view of the poor service, I feel I am entitled to compe nsation.

I look forward to hearing from you. (181 words)

Yours faithfully,
124 Cla ssified & Standard Samples - Task 1 ( GT)

Sample 63 Dissatisfaction / Formal letter

You recently stayed in a hotel in a large city. The weath er was very unusual f or the time ofyear and the
heating/cooling system in the h otel was quite inadeq uate.
Write a letter to the manager of the h otel. In your letter
• g ive details of what was wrong
• explain what you liad lo do to overcom e the problem at the tim e
• say what action you would like the manager lo take.

Dear_ _ _ _ __

I have just retu rned home after spending three nights at your hotel in Pad dington. The sta ff were very friendly
and t he location is extremely convenient. However, I feel I must express my disappointment about t he room .

As we all know, London is experiencing a very warm sum mer t his year, with temperatures around 30 °C last
week, which is qu ite unusual. As a resu lt, it was very hot in my room on t he sixth floor.

Because of th e extreme heat in the room, I had to leave t he windows open all night and so it was very noisy,
~ the hotel is on a main roa d and the t raffic never stops in London . Consequently, I got very little sleep over
t he t h ree days.

I think it wou ld be a good idea to install an air-conditioning syst em in the hotel. This could also be used as
a heating system in t he winter and would certainly make the rooms more comfortable. Per haps yo u wou ld
consider giving me a discount if I come to your hotel again.

I look forwa rd to hearing from yo u. ( 182 words)

Yours faithfu lly,

Sample 64 Dissatisfaction / Formal letter

Yo u had a minor acciden t at work. Write a letter to your employers. In the letter
• describe wh at happen ed
• exp lain the cause of the accident
• state wh at you think should be done about the situation.

Dear_ __ _ __

I would like to report an accident that I had leaving work on Friday 21 October. As I was leaving t he office,
I t ri pped over a raised paving st one just out si de the front entrance. I fell over and tore my t rousers and cut my
knee. Althoug h my inju ry was not serious, it was painful and my t rousers were damaged beyond repair .

I believe t hat t his accident was caused by problems with t he pavement just outside the front entrance. This
may be because t ree roots are growing under t he paving stones and pushing the paving st ones up. I feel th at
the path needs to be replaced if t his type of incident is to be avoided in the future .

I am writing t o draw your attentio n to t his matter. I would also like t he com pany to pay for t he damage to my
clothing. Replacing my t rousers wi ll cost around $200. I look forward to hearing from you. (155 words)

Regards,
 Classified & Standard Samples - Task 1 (GT}
125

Sample 65 Dissatisfaction / Formal letter

You eat at your college cafeteria every lunchtime. However, you think it needs some improvements.
Write a letter to the college magazine. In you letter
• explain what you like about the cafeteria
• say what is wrong with it
• suggest how it could be improved.

Dear_ _ _ _ __

I normally eat lunch at the college cafeteria because it is reasonable priced, convenient and it has a friendly
atmosphere.

There are, however, a number of deficiencies w hich I th ink should be put right Firstly, although the staff try
to keep the tables clean, there are not enough workers at peak times to clear their tables themselves then they
have finished eating.

Unfortunately, some students do not bother to do this. Also, there are a number of students who do not wait in
the queue to be served, which is very annoying for the majority of us. Finally, I think the cafeteria could have
better ventilation as it gets too hot , especially in t he summer.

I think it would be a good idea if more signs were put around the cafeteria asking students to put their dirty
plates and cutlery on the trolleys provided and to throw away their leftovers and rubbish. Also, I think
we should tell students when they are being anti -social and jumping the queue. Finally, Could we please have
a few windows open when things get too hot? (182 words)

Yours faithfu lly,

Sample 66 Dissatisfaction / Formal letter

You are a member of an organisation which meets regularly at a particular restaurant. The most recent meal you
had was not satisfactory, and you were very disappointed with the quality of the food and behaviour of the staff.
Write to the manager ofthe restaurant In your letter
• explain what was wrong with the meal and the service
• suggest what he/she should do to ensure that you and your group return to the restaurant

Dear_ _ __ __

I am the club secret ary for the North Sydney football club. Every month the club committee meets, and
following this meeting we have dinner at you r restaurant. I regret to say that last Friday the meal we had
was unsatisfactory, both in terms of t he quality of the food and the service.

There were several problems with the food last Friday. Some of the orders were overcooked, and one was
completely burnt. The salads were definitely not fresh! For example, the lettuce was either white or brown and
definitely not crisp or green .

The service that evening was also not up to your usual sta nda rd . We have never ex perienced such a long delay.
The waiter did not explain or apologise, and did nothing to repair the problem. He might have offered a
complimentary drink or something.

Before the club committee would co nsider returning to your restaurant we would need some assu rance that
the food will be fresh and that the service will be courteous and professional. (166 words)

Yours faithfully,
126 Classified & Standard Samples - Task 1 (GT )

Sample 67 Dissatisfaction / Formal letter

You and some friends had dinner in a restaurant a f ew nights ago. The service at the restaurant was terrible am/ the
food was bad. You and two friends had severe stomach-aches the following day. The food was also overpriced. Write
to the manager of the restaurants
• explain these problems
• give any details that you think are relevant
• ask the manager to do something about the situation.

My family and I had dinner in you r restaurant on Monday, 28th Februa ry. I am writing to you to complain about
the food and the service.

The first problem was that, although we had booked a table, we were squashed around a smal l table at the
back of the restau rant near t he toilet. It was very noisy and unpleasant.

Secondly, during and after our meal the service was bad. The waiter who delive red soup to my wife had his
thumb in it. Another waiter split spilt some custard on my mother- in-law's lap . I n general, the waiters were
rud e and the service was slow.

Fina lly, even though the reputation of your restaurant is good, the food was mediocre. The steak was tough,
the vegetables we re over-cooked and the desserts were stale. Th e food was definitely not good value for the
price. Also I thi nk some of the food was bad because I and two members of my fam ily had stomach-aches the
following day.

Since we feel we should b compensated somehow, we ask you to refu nd the cost of our meal. A copy of the bill
is enclosed. I hope to receive your reply shortly. ( 194 words)

Yours faithful ly,

Sample 68 Dissatisfaction / Formal letter

Write a letter about the poor facilities and equipment ofyour gym.
• write about the problems
• say ifyou would like to continue your membership

Dear_ __ __ _ _

I have been a member of your health centre for more than three years now. But there are some areas that
I will no longer visit because of its poor maintenance. I have noticed that the clean ing of the facilities and
equipment in t he gym has drastically gone down in standards over the past couple of months . There are days
when the floors are not swept and the restrooms are not clean. Upon a recent v isit to the locker room, I found
cockroaches in the lockers which lead me to write this letter.

During the past years, I have been happy with the well-managed facilities in the centre. But now, I am
considering leaving for another health centre.

I look forward to hearing from you regarding the resolution to this problem. It is my hope tha t you will address
this matter immediately. My membership dues will be up in a few weeks, at which time I will decide whether to
leave your club if no improvement is evident. ( 174 words)

Sincerely Yours,
 Classified & Standard Samples - Task l (GT)
127

Sample 69 Dissatisfaction / Formal letter

Write a letter about the poor facilities and equipment ofyour gym.
• write about the problems
• say ifyou would like to continue your membership.

Dear _ __ _ __

I have been a member of 'Quick Fitness' for over t wo yea rs, and as a loyal member, I w ould like to draw
your attention to several negative points that have crept into the gym over t ime.

First, I have noticed that you are offering fewer cl asses t his year than last year. I attend several classes
regularly, but yo u have stopped offering m y fa vorite box ing class altogether. Seco nd, the locker room has
entered a stat e of disrepa ir. The lockers usually keep sticking and the showers often do not w ork.
Finally, the entertainment facilities at t he gym are often broken . Last week, the televisions were not working
co rrectly. Th e week before, the cab le went out.

Thi s degrad ation of service is unfortunate because I greatly enjoy exercising at this club. I would like to hear
from you abo ut your plans for updating and maintaining the gym so that I can decide wh ether or not to renew
my membership for another yea r. Please send me an email at the address below at y our earliest co nvenience.
If I have not heard from you within the next two weeks, I am afra id I will have to cancel my membership. ( 193
wo rds)

Sincerely,

Sample 70 Dissatisfaction / Formal letter

You have problems with the packages delivered to your house. Write a letter to your local post office. In your letter
• describe the problems of the delivery system
• ask the company to inform you about their plans
• say how they can contact you.

Dear_ _ __ _ _

I am writing to inform you that my packages have repeatedly been delivered in an unsatisfactory manner.
Over t he past few weeks, you r postman has placed several notes in my mailbox stating that I was not home
at the time of delivery. However, I have been at home every time. In fa ct, I once saw the postman walking
away from the mailbox, and later put a missed delivery note in the box .

This is an unacceptable way to provide service. Each time the postman claims that I miss him; I have to pick up
my packages in person from the post office. Th is is a waste of time, and is certainly not what my shipping cost
is paying for.

I wou ld very much like to receive a response detailing your plans to improve your services. You ca n reach me
at 555-55555, extension 123. I look forward to hearing you r thoughts on this issue. (151 words)

Yours faithfully,
128 Classified & Standard Samples - Task 1 (GT)

Sample 71 Dissatisfaction / Formal letter

Write a letter stating a serious problem in your house; rented through an agency. In your letter
• say what the problem is
• say what you ,lid to solve it
• say what can be done.

Dear_ _ _ __ _

I am writing to comp lain about a seriou s problem in my house, which I rented th rough your agency.

The first problem is related to the air conditioning system. The heating system in my house has complete ly
stopped working. This situation is causing many problems for us during this very cold weather. It is affecting
my children's study, my husband 's work, and my own health.

I telephoned your agency on Thursday 27th January and spoke to one of your staff about the heating system.
I explained the situation to her, and she told me that the problem would be fixed in t wo or three days, but
in fact nothing has happened. Seven days have now passed and I have not received any comm un icat ion from
your office at all. Naturally, I am very concerned about this.

Cou ld you please send a repairman to fix my heating system as soon as possible? It is now urgent.

Thank you for your attent ion to this matter. ( 16 1 words)

Yours faithfully,

Sample 72 Dissatisfaction / Formal letter

You are worried about the potential problems caused by the released dogs in the park near your home.
Write a letter to the park councillor. In your letter
• say how long it has been happening
• explain what you are worried about
• say what needs to be done.

Dear_ _ _ _ __

I am writing to com plaint about two la rg e dogs that run in the park every evening. The owner of the dogs- a
you ng man- releases them to play in t he park, but I think it is very dangerous for people and animals to share
this park. This has been happening for the last two weeks .

The most dangerous t h ing is that the dogs bark very loudly and run towards people so that they frighten them,
especially sma ll child ren. In fact, some people, including m yself, have attempted to ta lk with the dogs' owner,
but he seems to ignore what we say.

As a mother with two children, I am natu rally worried abou t their safety. I am sending this letter as a
representative of a concerned group of t he park users. The owner needs to be told to keep his dogs on a leash
so that people don 't feel scared. I am looking forward to heari ng from yo u. (156 wo rds)

Yours fa ithfully,
 Classified & Standard Samples - Task 1 (GT)
129

Sample 73 Dissatisfaction / Formal letter

There are a number ofproblems in the park which is located near your home; in terms ofsecurity, cleanliness, etc.
You are worried about yo ur child. Write a letter to the park manager. In you letter
• describe the problems
• say what you think should be done
• ask for help.

I am writing in connection with the problems wh ich exist in t he playground of the 'Green Park'. I live in the
nearby neighbourhood .

The most worryi ng problem is its security. For the last three months a gang of teenagers have used it as a
place to meet one anoth er. Another issue w hich is very critical and needs urgent attention is about the hygienic
cond itions of the area. I t is regrettable that the park is fu ll of rubbish and broken bottles. I would not want m y
son to go near this place as it is so da ngerous. I think young children should not be allowed to use the
playground unless it is clea ned.

A good suggest ion to improve t he current situation is t o supervise the park on a regular basis. Moreover, a
notice is needed; saying that the playground is only t o be used by children aged 3 -10 years. I would
appreciate if you could d eal wit h these problems as soon as possible. I think we should all contribute to the
improvement of our park.

I look forward to hearing from you. ( 182 words)

Yours faithfu lly,

Sample 74 Dissatisfaction / Formal letter

The local council has decided to build a block offlats on the park opposite the place where you are living.
Write a letter to the editor of the local newspaper. In your letter
• protest this development of a beautiful and necessary green space in your town
• make suggestions for what people can or should do to stop the development.

Dear_ _ _ _ __

I am writi ng to you r newspaper to protest about the proposed development of Newtown Park opposite to the
place where I live.

The local council has written to us saying that they are going to build a huge five-storey block of flat s on the
park next year. I stro ngly object to this proposal, and so do my neig hbours.

There are too many flats in this area already, and, although it is true that people have to have a place to live,
they have to ha ve a place to play as well. If the council goes ahead and builds this block of flats, where will
our children play? We only have one park in this part of town. The nearest park is over three ki lometres away.

We need this park, and we need the trees and the green space that it provides. I f you agree that we must save
our lovely park, write to this newspaper and tell the counci l how you feel about their development plans. Write
to me and perhaps we can ask people to sign a petition to stop the project. (183 words)

Yours faithfully,
130 Classified & Standard Samples - Task 1 {GT)

Sample 75 Dissatisfaction / Formal letter

The local council in the area where you live has decided to demolish an old historical building to build a shopping
centre. Write a letter to the head of the Co uncil. In your letter
• explain why it is important to preserve the old buildi11g
• suggest how the building can be used to benefit the local community
• suggest another place for the shopping centre.

Dear_ _ _ _ __ _

I am writing to express my dissatisfaction with the Local Council's decision to demolish the o ld City Hall building
in the Lake Gardens area where I have lived for five years.

Although t he bu ilding is in a very poor condition, I do not t h ink it is beyond repair . I believe that the old City
Hall can be restored and put to good use for the local com munity.

It can be used to house a library or community centre for t he people living in the area . I am convinced that yo u
would have no shortage of people who woul d gladly vo lunteer to organise a fund-raisi ng campaign for t he
cause.

I understand that t he pro posed shopping centre is going to bring business and jobs to the area . But I do not
thin k th is should be done at t he expense of losing one of the oldest and most interesting historical la nd ma rks in
Lake Gardens. I wonder if the Coun cil has considered t he abandoned brick factory on t he corner of the Maple
Street and Hillsi de Lan e as a possible site for the construction proj ect.

I hope the Lake Gardens Local Council reconsiders the d ecision to demolish the old City Ha ll and fi nds a
different site for building the shopping centre. (215 words)

Yours faithfully,

Sample 76 Dissatisfaction / Formal letter

You travel by bus every weekday morning, and you always use the same bus route. Recently, the bus has not been
reliable. It sometimes comes late, and for the last f ew mornings, it has not stopped when you hailed il No change of
schedule has bee11 advertised. You have also noticed that the bus is far dirtier than it used to be. Write a letter to the
bus company.
• explain the situation
• tell them what you want them to do.

Dear_ __ _ _ __

I am a regu lar passenger on the 388 bus service. I have alw ays found it to be a good service both punctual and
clean. However, over the last t wo weeks this situation has changed. The 388 is no longer reliable and it is dirty.

The bus now arrives behind schedule. For example, on the 15th and 17th November the bus that was scheduled
to a rrive at Springwood Street at 8.30 am arrived at 8.40 am. Then, on 215 \ 22nd and 23rd November the bus
was not only late, but it failed to stop as well.

In addition, the bus is no longer as clean as it previou sly w as. I have noticed papers and bottl es dow n the a isle
and oth er seats.

The deterioration of the 388 bus service is unacceptable, an d I request that you do everything possibl e to
return the service to its former punctual and clean level.

I look forward to y our swift attention to this matter. (158 words )

Yours faithfully,
 Classifi ed & Standard Samples - Task 1 ( GT)
131

Sample 77 Dissatisfaction / Formal letter

The local government is planning to change the bus timetable. You are not happy about the proposed changes.
Write a letter to the newspaper. In the letter
• describe changes
• explain how they will affect you
• say how yo u would improve the service.

Dear_ _ __ _ _

I saw in last week's edition the article about the proposed changes to the 391 bus from East Gardens t o t he
City.

I am sure that I am not the only one affected by this change. Reducing t he number of 391 buses duri ng t he
early morning rush hour will affect many people who need this link to catch a train from Central Station.
Without this bus, people will be forced to abandon publ ic transport and drive to work. This would contribute to
the ever-increasing traffic jams in the city.

I suggest that the government should run this bus more frequently and schedule it to coincide with the train
timetable in order to· make travelling easier. Better still; the government could extend the ra il link from th e city
to the eastern suburbs. This w ay they could cut down the number of drivers on the road a nd reduce ev eryone's
travel time. (150 words)

Yours faithfully,

Sample 78 Dissatisfaction / For mal letter

You live near a dangerous road junction where several accidents have occurred. Write a letter to the authorities,
describing the problem and suggesting how further accidents could be avoided.

Dea r _ _ _ __ _

I am writ ing to bring to your attention th e dangerous state of the road j unction between Ellis Road and
Wiltshire Avenue in t he village of Hazlemere. During the last year there hav e been a large number of accidents
at this junction and it seems to me that something must be done.

The basic problem is the lack of roa d signs on Ellis Road warnin g drivers of the junct ion. In particular, for traffic
approaching from the north, there are no warning signs at all until they have reached the junct ion. Since the
speed limit on this road is 60 mph, drivers do not have time to slow down, wi th t he result that they go throug h
the stop si gn directly into the lane of east-bound traffic on Wiltshire Ave nue. Furthermore, the junction also
presents a danger to the children wa lki ng to and from the local primary school. Due to the fact that there is no
safe place to cross, several children have been injured in minor accidents. Yet more accidents have been
caused by the fact that drivers have swerved to avoid children stepping off the pavement.

One solution to the problem would be to install signs on Ellis Road. These should be clea rly visible and large
enough to make drivers awa re of the junction. Also, the speed limit must be reduced to make sure that cars
travel at a speed at which they are able to slow down and stop safely. In addition to this, a proper crossing
must be provided for pedestrians at the junction. Doing so would ensure that drivers were not distracted by
people crossing the road. Moreover, flashing lights would act as a further warning, forcing drivers to slow down
even more, thus reducing the danger to local people.

I hope you will give this matter your urgent consid eration and that suitable measures will be taken before more
accidents occur. (313 words)

Yours faithfully,
132 Cla ssified & Standard Sam ple s - Task 1 ( GT)

Sample 79 Dissatisfaction / Semi-formal letter

You have problems wit/, you roommate

Write a letter to your roommate. In your letter
• explain wl,y yo u are writing
• describe the problems
• give your contact number.

Dear _ _ _ __

I am very sorry to have to write you this letter, but you have left me no other choice. I have t ried discussing
this issue with you in person, but you have disregarded my repeated attempts to remedy our living situation .
I have forwarded this letter to you and the landlord in an attempt to get these issues resolved.

As my roommate, I understand t hat you have an equal right to enjoy the space we live in. However, you are
damaging the apartment with your behaviour and making it impossible for me to sleep or study. In particular,
I am unhappy with the stains your dog has left in the apartment and your parties held late at night.

Unless you can resolve to clean up and refrain from making excessive noise after 10.00 p.m, I will be forced to
move out. Please contact me by phone at 555-55555 ~ we can discuss how you will change your behaviour.
(162 words)

Sincerely,

Sample 80 Housing / (Semi) Forma l letter

You have had a p roblem with your next-door neighbour.

You have not been able to speak to the neighbour about this.
Write a letter to this neigl,bour. In your letter
• explain the problem
• suggest a solution
• say wl,at action you will take if the situation does not improve.

Dear_ _ __ __

I am writing to you because of the noise late at night coming from your flat. I have tried to contact you by
telephone on a number of occasions, but there was no respon se. I 'm afraid that the noise has caused
considerable disturbance to me and my family.

Every night the sound of musical instruments can be heard clearly through the walls of my flat and this goes on
until the early hours of the morning, which prevents anyone in my family from getting a good night's sleep.

I would like to suggest that you invest in soundproofing for your walls to prevent the noise coming through and
disturbing your neighbours. Furthermore, I would appreciate it if you could stop playing musical instruments by
midnight at the latest.

I very much hope that you will do something about this or I regret that I will have to inform the local
authorities about the disturbance being caused . (156 words)

Yours sincerely,
 Classified & Standard Samples - T ask 1 ( GT}
133

Sample 81 Housing / Semi-formal letter

You have been living in" rental apartment for the past year. Recently a new neighbour moved in and lws been
making" lot of noise, which tlisturbs you. Write a letter to the landlord. In your letter
• explain the situation
• describe why it bothers you
• suggest a solution.

Dear_ _ _ _ __

I am writing in connection with a problem I have with the new tenant, Jack, who has moved upstairs.
Unfortunately, his needs and habits are quite different from other neighbours. Th e issue is that he appears to
be a professional musician who plays his elect ric guitar every night. I understand he is in a band and needs to
practi se; however, I think he shouldn't do it in such a small r:esidential building. As you know, I am a full-time
writer, and it is essentia l for me to have silence to concentrate on my work. With such a neighbour pla ying
at all hours, I have been unable to get any of my writing done, ex cept when he is out. In some cases, I have
even been forced to leave the apartment and work at a nearby coffee shop or library as it was causing such a
disturbance .

I would appreciate it if you could speak to Jack and ask him to turn down the vol ume on his guitar or use
headphones. I have spoken to him about it, but to no avail. I will let you know as soon as the situation
improv es.

Thank you kind ly in advance and please give my best regards to your fam ily. (207 words)

Yours sin cerely,

Sample 82 Housing / Semi- formal letter (Friendly)

Your neighbours have recently written to you to complain about the noise from your flat.
Write a letter to your neighbours. In your letter
• explain the reasons for the noise
• "pologise
• describe what action you will take.

Dear_ __ _ _ _

I was very shocked to get your letter saying that the noise from my flat has been spoiling your evenings and
causing you some distress. I am really, really sorry about that. I had no idea that you would be able to hear so
much, so I hope you will accept my apologies.

As you may have guessed, I am trying to refit m y kitchen in the evenings when I get home from work.
Unfortunately, it is all taking longer than expected and I have been having problems with gett ing things to fit
properly. Th is has meant to a lot of banging and hammering.

As the kitchen is still not finished , I have decided to call in a professional builder who will fin ish the work in the
next day or two. He'll wo rk only during daytime hours, so you won't be disturbed in the evenings again,
I promise.

Sorry to have caused these problems, (154 words)

Sincerely,
134 Classified & Standard Samples - Task 1 (GT)

Sample 83 Housing / Semi-fo rmal letter

Write a letter to the manager ofyour building. In your letter

• thank him/ her
• write about the problems
• ask him or her to call you for fu rther information if needed.

Dear_ _ __ __

While I greatly appreciate the difficult job you already do, and keeping our apartment building runn ing
smooth ly, a few issues with the apartment have come to my attention and need to be addressed immediately.
I would appreciate it if you could take care of t hese issues as soon as possible because they are re lated to our
health and safety.

The first problem is that the carpet on the stairs is ripping apart. It is very dangerous because people can trip
on the stairs.

The second problem is that some of the elevator lights have gone out. These light bulbs need to be replaced
soon before they all go black.

The final problem is that there is mold growing on the north side of the building. Mold is a major health
concern, and it is also unsightly.

Again, thank you for t he work that you do in our apartment complex. Please let me know if you need
clarification on any of these issues by giving me a ca ll at 555-55555. (169 words)

Sincerely,

Sample 84 Housing/ (Semi) Formal letter

You are experiencing financial problems and want to ask your landlord ifyou can pay your rent late.
Write a letter to your landlord. In your letter explain
• why you are writing to him
• why you cannot pay the rent
• when you will pay the rent.

Dear_ _ _ __ _

I am writing to request you if you could allow me to pay my rent late this month.

I have been a t enant with you for a number of years now, and as yo u know, I have always paid my rent on
time. However, I am having a few financia l problems at the moment. Last month, I was made redundant from
my job because the company I work for is closing down. I have not worked at the company for a long time, and
have not received a redu ndancy payment, therefore leaving me short of money t his month.

I can assure you that I will be able to pay the rent on the 15th of next month. I have now found another job,
and t hey have kindly agreed to advance my first salary, but they are u nable to arrange this until next week .

I hope this will be acceptable to you, but plea se contact me if it is a problem. (160 words)

Yours sincerely,
 Classified & Standard Samples - Task 1 (GT)
135

Sample 85 Housing / (Semi) Formal letter

You have recently moved into a new flat. Unfo rtunately, you lost some money the other day, and cannot afford to pay
next month 's rent when it is due.
Write a letter to the landlord
• explain the situation and that you will p ay as soon as your parents send you the money
• mention that there are some problems with the flat.

Dear_ __ _ __

I am writing to yo u because I am unable to pay next month 's rent wh ich is due on Sa tu rday. Unfortunately,
the other day I lost may wallet, and there was a large amount of money inside. I have, therefore, had to writ e
to my parents to ask them to send me some money urgently. As soon as it arrives, I will immediately notify
you and arrange to pay by cash or cheque . I hope that this does not ca use you t oo much inconvenience.

There are also some problems with t he flat that I wish to bring to your attention . First, the co ld tap in t he
bathroom will not turn off properly, and the water is drippi ng constantly. This will need to be fixed quickly
because it is wasting water. Second, one of t he back rings on t he top of the oven does not wo rk at all.

I'm sorry t hat I cannot pay the rent on time, and t rust t hat you will understand . (162 words)

Yours sincerely,

Sample 86 Housing / (Semi) Formal letter

You and your.family are living in rented accommodation in an Eng/isl, speaking country.
You are not satisfied with the condition of some of the f urniture.
Write a letter to your landlord. In your letter
• introduce yourself
• explain what is wrong with the f urniture
• say what action you would like the landlord to take.

Dear_ _ __ _ __

I am your tenant from Flat 3 on Riverside Street. We met each other when I signed the rental ag ree ment in
your office.

I have lived here for 6 months now and I am writing to complain about some of t he furnit u re. As you may
remember, the dining table is in very poor condit ion a nd has uneven legs. It also does not match t he dining
chairs as these are too low to be comfortable for a t able of that height. When I first pointed this out to you, you
agreed to provide a brand new d ining set. However, yo u have not done so and I would really like to reso lve this
matter as soon as possibl e.

If it is more convenient for yo u, perhaps you could simply replace t he tab le by finding one of a suitab le height
for the chai rs. Th is would solve t he problems without too much cost, so I hope you agree to t his proposed
solution.

Looking forward to hearing from you. (164 wo rds)

Yours sincerely,
136 Classified & Standard Samples - Task 1 ( GT}

Sample 87 Housing / Formal letter

You are going on a short training course at a college in Sydney, Australia. You need somewhere to live while you are
there. Write a letter to the accommodation officer at the college. In yo ur letter
• explain your situation
• describe the accommodation you require
• say when you will need il

Dear_ _ __ __

I am writing in connection w ith my upcom ing traini ng course at you r college in Sydney, Australia. I will be there
to attend the Brain-Based Learning Program at Victoria College for a period of three weeks from July 1st to July
22nd, 2010. I am hoping you will be able to assist me with my accommodation arrang ements.

As I am slightly older than most of the other participants, I would appreciate if you could find a private studio
apartment for me, close to the college. It wou ld be ideal if I could walk to college each day, but if not, I would
need access to public trans portation. In terms of the apartm ent, all I require is a bed, a desk, a TV, an Internet
connection, a kitchen and a bathroom . My budget is around US $1000 for 3 weeks.

As I will be arriving on July 1st, I would need the apartment to be available from t hat night until the day of my
departure, which is July 23rd . My last night in t he apartment would be July 22nd.

Please let me know if you are able to find such an apartment and if not, please suggest other suitable
arrangements. I look forward to hearing from you. (207 words)

Yours sincerely,

Sample 88 Housing / Formal letter

You live in a room in college. There is a problem in the bathroom that you would like it to be repaired.
Write a letter to the accommodation officer at the college. In the letter
• describe the problem
• explain how the situation affects you
• suggest a time when a repairman could visil

Dear_ _ _ __ _

I am a first-year science student living in room 123 in the William Thompson Hall of Residence.
I wish to report a problem with the shower in my room. Unfortunately I have not had hot water for over a week
and the water coming out of the hot tap is brown in colour. The situation has become so bad that I have to go
and shower in my friend's room. I am sure yo u will u nderstand that this is particularly inconven ient at
examination time.

Next week I will be available on Monday, Wednesday and Thursda y afternoons after 3.30 pm. Please could yo u
telephone first to a rra nge an appointment and to confirm the day and t ime that the plumber will arrive?
My number is 555-55555. It is best if you call after 3.00 pm as I am taking exams at the moment.

I look forward to hearing from you as soon as possible. (152 words)

Yours faithfully,
 Classified & Standard Samples - Task 1 (GT}
137

Sample 89 Holiday / Informal letter

An English speaking friend wants to spend a two-week holiday in your region and has written asking for
information and advice. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter
• offer to find somewhere to stay
• give advice about what to do
• give information about what clothes to bring.

Dear_ _ __ _ __

I 'm delighted that you are coming to Valencia next month . I think it would be great if you stayed with me and
my family who send you thei r wishes. Otherwise, if you prefer, I can easily book you a cheap but comforta ble
hotel near the beach so you can be more independent.

There are lots of things to do in m y city. If I we re you, I 'd spend some days on the beach re laxing and one or
two days sightseeing in the city. There are severa l interesting museums and art ga lleries that I 'm sure you will
enjoy. One place you rea lly should visit is an enormous aquarium ca lled the Oceangraphic Park, where you'll
want to spend the whole day. Also, you ought to go to ou r excellent theme park, which is about an hour away
by bus.

You don 't need to bring a lot of clothes as the weather is normally warm and sunny at this time of year.
In the evening it 's a bit cooler, so you may need a jersey and a jacket .

Please let me know exactly when you 're com ing so I can meet you at the airport. It'll be great to see you again
so we can get up-to-date with all our news! (210 words)

Love,

Sample 90 Holiday / Informal letter

An English-speaking friend wants to spend a holiday in your hometown and has written a letter asking for
information and advice. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter
• offer to find somewhere to stay
• g ive advice about what to do
• give information about what clothes to bring.

Dear_ _ _ _ _ __

Thanks so much for your latest letter. I'm really excited to hear that you' re planning to v isit Toronto.
It wi ll give me a cha nce to take you around, as you did so kind ly for me when I was in Amsterdam last year.

Regarding your visit, I would be happy to help in any way possible. First, unless you really like freezing
weather, I suggest you to come in the summer months of July or August. Though most hotels are expensive
at t hat time, we have some wonderful g uest suites available in our high-rise bui lding, for only abo ut $50
per night. They are fully furnished studio apartments, with a kitchen, so you can have th e option of eating in.
Just let me know yo ur dates and I ca n make a reservation for you.

Summer is also the t ime whe n all the tourist sites are open. We can visit Centre I sland, Canada's Wo nderland,
Niagara Falls, the CN Tower, the Roya l Ontario Museum, the Science Centre and Thousand I slands . The weather
should be warm and comfortable, around 25-30 degrees Celsius, so bring your informal summer clothes,
a swimsuit and an umbrella too. We do get summer showers quite olten. Write soon, ( 199 words)

Warm wishes,
1 38 Cla ssified & Standard Sam ples - Task 1 (GT)

Sample 91 Holiday / Inform al letter

You have recently heard that a friend ofyours has had some problem s as a result ofsome u1111s11a/ weather.
Write a letter to yo ur friend. In your letter
• express concern (i.e. say you are sorry to hear what has happened)
• tell them about a similar exp erience that you once fwd
• give some advice or offer help.

Dear_ _ _ _ __

We were shocked to hear from Lara about th e storm that hit yo ur city recently and the damage done to your
house. How awful to come home from your holiday to find th e roof blown off the house!

I understand how you must feel, as we had a similar experience a few years ago when t here was a sudden
electrical storm here in Sydney. I came home from work to fi nd that a tree had fallen on top of the house and
all the windows were broken. Fortunately t he insurance covered the cost of the repa irs, but it was still very
upsetting.

I suppose you have to think positively in situations like this and look at the opportunity you have to improve
your house - give it a new look. If we can do anything for you in the holidays, we'd be happy to help.

Drop us a line and let us know. ( 152 words)

Best wishes,

Sample 92 Holiday / Informal letter

An Australian friend is coming to visit you, and it will be his/her birthday during the visit.
Write a letter to your friend. In your letter
• say how you f eel about the visit
• suggest what you could do on his/her birthday
• try to find out what your friend thinks ofyour idea.

Dear_ _ _ _ __

I 'm really looking forward to your visit here next month, and I hope you'll have a great time meeting my friends
and family. There are lots of interesting places I can show you in the area, and there are plen ty of places we
ca n go in the ev ening to have fun .

I 've just realised that it'll be your birthday while you 're over here, won't it? I 've been thinking about what we
could d o that day. I think it wou ld be a great idea if we went to the Adventure World theme park, which isn't far
from where I live. I haven't been there myself, but friends tell me it 's a fantastic place for a day out.
It's got some really exciting rides, apparently, including one called The Shake- up, which everyone talks about
when they've been there.

Let me know what you th ink. I know you like a bit of excitement, filli! it would be easy for us to get there .
Do you fancy it? I f so, I can start organising the trip. If it's not the sort of th ing that appeals to yo u, I'll think of
something else. If you have a better suggestion, let me know an d I 'll try to organise that.

Love,
 Classified & Standard Samples - Task 1 ( GT}
139

Sample 93 Holiday / Semi-formal / Informal letter

A n Australian colleague is going to your country for a conference. H e /She will spend several days in your home
town, and has written a letter to you asking for advice about things lo see and do there.
Write a letter to the colleague suggesting what he/she should see and do while he/she is in your hometown.

Dear_ _ __ __

Thank you for your letter. I was very pleased to hear you will be visiting Jakarta and hope the following
information will help you to enjoy you r stay.

First of all, Jakarta is a big and busy city, the center of government and business. There are many international
quality hotels and restaurants as well as shopping centers, markets and en tertainmen t places.

However, I th ink you wou ld like to see some places that are unique to my country. I know you are interested in
art and history, so firstly I suggest you to v isit Monas, which is the Independence monument. Secondly, not far
from Monas you ca n find t he National Museum wh ich has a large collection of art, textiles and other cultural
items.

Other interesting places are a 'wayang' museum, which features our un ique shadow-puppet dramas, and Pasar
Ikan (the fish market) where yo u can see traditio nal fishing boats.

I hope these suggestions have been helpful. As you only have a short t ime in Jakarta, you probably will not be
able to do much more sightseeing. But if I can help in any other way, please let me know. (188 words)

Yours sincerely,

Sample 94 Holiday / Semi-formal / Informal letter

An E nglish-speaking friend is coming to study at your college next year and has written asking for information and
advice. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter
• give advice about accommodation in the town
• describe the best thing about the college
• offer to show your friend around the college.

Dear_ __ _ _ _

I was very pleased to hear that you wi ll be studying at the same college as I am. You ask me about
accommodation. There are two main choices of accommodation in th e town. First of all, there are hotels which
are run by the college . These are not expensive, but the study bedroom s are quite small just a single bed, a
wardrobe, desk and chair. There is a shared kitchen and bathroom on each floor. If I were you, I'd try to find
a shared flat in the town, it will be about the same price, but you would have a bigger room. There are lots of
notices at the co llege, offering fla ts to share.

The best thing about the co llege is the new computer centre. It's huge and has the most u p-to date t echnology.

When you arrive here, give me a ring, and I 'll take you on a guid ed tou r of both the college and the town .
(160 words)

Best wishes,
140 Classified & Sta nda rd Samples - Task 1 ( GT}

Sample 95 Holiday / Informal letter

You recently visited a place that had a strong impact on you.

Write a letter to a frieml about the place. Ill your letter
• explain where the place was and how you got there
• describe what you saw
• offer to take yo ur friend there.

Dear_ _ _ _ __

I have j ust returned from my hol idays in France and while we were there we climbed a mountain called
' Parmelan' in the French Alps. We we re able to drive halfway up the mountain but then the road stopped.
So we parked, put on ou r walki ng boots and bega n the long uphill struggle.

Despite the road at the beginning, it still took us a while to comp lete the climb but it was well worth the effort.
Whe n we got to the top of the mount ain, t he view wa s incredibl e. I could see right across the town and the lake
to one side, and on the other side were the snow-covered peaks of Mont Blanc. It was simply breathtaking.

As yo u know, we often go to France on our holidays and next t ime we plan a t rip, I'd really like to take you
there. I'm sure you would love t he scenery and as you enjoy exercise, you would be able to take advantage of
all the mou ntain walks.

I hope to hear from you soon . (17 3 words)

Best wishes,

Sample 96 Holiday / Informal letter

Write about y our recent camping experience you had. In your letter,
• say what it was like and what happened
• ask him/her to see each other.

Dear_ _ _ __ _

Sorry, I haven't written to you for a long time, but believe me, I have been very busy during the last three
months. In your last lett er, you asked me for more information about my camping trip. Well, I had a great
time. Actually, I didn't intend to go but some friends rang me at the last minute and invited me, so I decided to
go. To describe, I should say, the place was amazingly beautiful, an d t he beach was really lovely. We watched
the sun goi ng down over t he horizons every night wh ich was absolut ely brilliant.

Unfortunately, Pau l is not used to going cam pin g, and has an all ergy to flower pollen . We had to take him to
the doctor on t he third day of our journey and we were very worried, but now he is better.

Anyway, we must meet up fo r a drink and catch u p sometime. Perhaps we cou ld meet next weekend and I can
tell you more then. I can't wait to see you; I 've missed you so much.

Write back soon, (174 words)

Love,
 Classified & Standard Samples - Task 1 (GT}
141

Sample 97 Holiday I Formal letter

You recently spent a week at an adventure sports centre. A friend is thinking ofgoing to the same place am[ has
contacted you about it. Write a letter to your friend and give the advice and information your friend wants.

Dear_ __ __ _

I had a great time there and reckon you wi ll too.

The scariest thin g I did was divi ng . I got pretty worked up whi le I was doing that and cou ldn't carry on with it.
We each had a qua lified teacher with us, so I know I was safe, but I pan icked anyway and gave up. The
canoei ng was pretty scary too, but again there was a teacher looking after me the whole time so I didn't feel
I was really in a lot of danger.

Apart from that, all the activities were great fun, even if some of them were pretty hard. The assault course,
w hich I did on the first day, was extremely demanding but I enjoyed it and I think you would too. I was pretty
useless at rock cli mbing at first, but I got the hang of it after a while and rea lly enjoyed that. You rea lly must
try that!

There was a great bunch people at the ce ntre and we had a lot of fun together. Setting up a camp was
hilarious- we got into a terrible m ess. I'm sure I 'll see some of them again.

I felt that I achieved a lot at the centre and that it was well worth going . I certainly think you should go too.
( 214 wo rds)

Yours,

Sample 98 Holiday I Formal letter

You have seen an advertisement offering a special holiday at a beautiful tourist resort.
You would like to book a holiday.
Write a letter to the travel company. In your letter
• say when you would like to arrive and leave
• describe the type of accommodation you require
• ask for more information about activities available.

Dear _ _ __ __

I saw your advertisement for a two-week holiday in Tasmania in Cheap and Cheerful Holiday Magazine and
I would like to have more information on the issues below.

First, I would like to know if the special offer is still available during the school hol idays from 8 to 21 July,
as this is the only time that is possible for us to get away.

Second, co uld you send me details of the type of accommodation you are offering? I would like to know if yo u
have anything suitable for a party of ten people. Furthermore, would it be possible for you to inform me
whether any of the cabins have wheelchair access?

Fin ally, we would like to go sa iling and wonder if it is possible to book a boat from the resort.

I look forward to your response and hope to see you in t he near future. (153 words)

Yours faithfully,
142 Classified & Standard Samples - Task 1 (GT)

Sample 99 Holiday / Forma l letter

You are planning to have a holiday. Write a letter to a travel agency. In your letter
• book the type of accommodation that you would prefer to reserve
• enquire about the price
• ask how you can spend your time.

I saw your advertisement in this month's Country Pursuits. My wife and I will be travelling around Alberta in
August and September. I would like to reserve a double room for the nights of 16th, 17th and 18th September
I deally, I would prefer a room with an en' suite bathroom . Since my wife has difficulty climbing stairs, we will
need a room situated eit her on the first floor or near a Ii~.

I would be grateful if you could let me know if you have a suitable room free on those dates. If so, please
advise me of the tota l price to include breakfast (for three morn ings) . It would also be helpful to us if you would
forward details on how to get there by car. We would also appreciate if you could send us some information on
local events and interesting places to visit in your area.

I look forward to hearing from you soon. (156 wo rds)

Yours faithfully,

Sample 100 Holiday / Formal letter

You are going to spend your vacation in a city in a fo reign country. You have never been there before.
You r cousin has a friend who lives there. Write a letter to the friend. In your letter
• introduce yourself
• say why you are making this trip
• ask som e questions about the city (e.g. places to see, things to do, things to bring)

Dear_ __ _ __ _

Hello, my name is John, I'm Jake Vandelf's cousin . When Jake told me that he had a friend who lived in
Toronto, I was excited . I'm hoping to visit Toronto in the summer. I hope you don't mind that I asked for you r
address. Jake said you probably wouldn't mind answering some questions if I wrote to you.

When I fou nd out that I would get three weeks for a holiday this summer, I decided, I wanted to go to a foreign
country. I've always dreamed of going to Canada. I love watching baseball and I would love to see a major
league game in Toronto . The Toronto Blue Jays are my favourite team .

Where shall I stay when I visit Toronto? I think it is probably too expensive to stay in a hotel in the city centre
for more t han a week. Do you know of any youth hostels? Also, could you tell me about the weather in the
summer? I don 't know what to pack!

I look forward to hearing from you if you have time to write back. Maybe we can meet fo r lunch.

Best wishes,

P.S. Jake said to say hello.

 Classified & Standard Samples - Task 1 (GT)
143

Sample 101 Holiday / (Semi) formal letter

You are taking a holiday in a place recomm ended by your local travel agent, and you are having a wonderful time.
You promised to write to him and let him know what you think of his suggestion. Write a letter to your travel agent
as promised,
• let him know what you have been doing and what you are going to do before the end ofyour holillay
• explain why you think he made the right choice for you.

Dear_ _ _ __ _

At last I have time to write to you as promised. Surfers' Paradise is a great place for a holiday, and I 'm so glad
you suggested it to me. The beach really is as good as you said it would be, and your choice of hotel was
excellent.

As yo u know, the hotel is right next to the beach; in fact, my room overlooks the water. The weather has been
marvelous so far . Everyday, I 've been swimming, and I am starting to get a great tan. It's a fantastic place for
a holiday.

Last week I went to Sea World and saw the dolphins on display. They really are very clever. Yesterday, I met
some other hotel guests from my country, and we had dinner together. It was a most enjoyable evening, and
we made plans to go out on a day cruise this Saturday. I'm looking forward to it very much.

I think you made an excellent choice of holiday for me because it is so easy to meet new friends here and have
a good tim e. Thank once aga in. I 'll come in and see you when I return. (190 words)

Regards,

Sample 102 Holiday / (Semi) Formal letter

You recently visited a tourist attraction and you were very pleased by the help given to yo u by the staff.
Write a letter to the head ofstaff at the tourist attraction. In your letter
• give details of the circumstances ofyour visit
• describe the help given to you by the staff
• say what you want the head ofstaff to do.

Dear_ _ __ __

I visited your museum last Saturday with a couple of friends of mine, who do not speak English very well, and
who had their sma ll child with them in a pushchair. I wou ld like to tell you how enjoyable our visit was because
of the help given to us by you r staff.

When we arrived, there was a long queue at the entrance, but a member of staff saw that we had a small chi ld
with us and took us immediately to the front of the queue and into the museum. As we went round the
museum, we asked members of staff various questions about t he exhibits, and they explained everything very
patiently and in a way that my friend s could easily understand. Th ey are clearly experienced in this sort of
situation and very well trained.

Our visit was a great success and th is is mainly because of your staff. I would be grateful if you cou ld thank
them on our behalf for treating us so well and helping to give us a memorable day. ( 175 words)

Yours faithfully,
144 Classified & Standard Samples - T a sk 1 ( GT)

Sample 103 Holiday / Formal letter

You recently went to a museum where the staff were particularly helpful. Write a letter to the museum's curator,
giving your overall opinion of the museum and suggesting what might be done to furth er improve the standard of
what it has to offer the public.
Dear~~~~~~-

I am writing to com mend you on the except iona l service t he Museum of National History offers . I recently
v isited th e museum for the first time and viewed your exhibition entitled 'The Age of Dinosaurs' which was, to
my mind, extremely interesting and informative .

I was particularly impressed by how approachable and helpful the museum staff were; they showed themselves
willin g to help with any questions or requ ests which arose during m y visit. Moreover, I appreciated the fact that
the guides were very knowledgeable about their subject.

In my opinion, the subject of your feature exhibition was both fascinating and enlightening. It was obviou sly
ca refu lly researched and its excellent presentation made it interesting to people of all ages. I was equally
impressed with the permanent exhibits and found your late closing time very considerate and convenient for
working people such as m yse lf. ·

There are, however one or two suggestions I would like to submit which I feel wo uld further improve the
standard of the museum. Firstly, a service offering guided tours in foreign languages wou ld be useful for
tourists visiting the museu m. Additionally, installing ramps would make access easier for disabled people, thus
making their visit more enjoyable. Finally, may I suggest that you publicise the museum's forthcoming exhibits
more widely? As a result, many more people like myself who are interested in natural history would be made
aware of th e regu lar exhibitions you present.

Once again, I would like to congratulate you on the very high standard of your museu m, and assure you that
I shall be a regu lar visitor from now on. ( 263 words)

Yours Sincerely,

Sample 104 Product enquiry / Formal lett er

You have just rented an unfurnished flat and a friend has told you that the Opportunity Shop in the shopping centre
has cheap second-hand furniture.
Write to the shop owner. In your letter,
• describe what you need
• ask whether they have these item s
• what they cost.

I have j ust arrived from overseas and need to have some furniture for my unfurnish ed flat. A friend has told me
that you have some cheap second-hand furniture for sale.

Perhaps you ca n hel p me. I would like a kitchen table, some chairs, a double bed, as well as a sing le bed for a
visitor, a cupboard for our clothes, and a bookcase. If you sell home appliances, I wou ld like a microwave oven,
a fridge, TV set and a CD player too. These must all be clean and the electrica l items must be in good working
condition with a guarantee of at least three months.

I would be grateful if you could give me some prices for these item s. If you do not supply electrica l goods, can
you recommend another shop which does? Also, cou ld you let me know what you would charge to deliver goods
to High Street?

Thank you for your help. I look forward to hearing from you. ( 162 words)

Yours faithfully,
 Classified & Standard Samples· Task 1 (GT)
145

Sample 105 Service enquiry / Formal letter

You are going on holiday and you would like to hire a car. One ofyour parties is in a wheelchair.
Write a letter to a car hire company. /11 the letter,
• explain the reason you need tlte car
• describe the type of car you need
• ask what tlte price is and wltat it includes.

Dear_ _ __ __ _

I found out about your car hire company from you r website and would like some more information.
My family and I are flying to Cairns on 22 December and we would like to rent a car to travel around while
we are there. We wo uld return the car to the airport on the 29th of December.

As there will be six people in our group, we will need a large car. We will also be accompanied by my mother
w ho is in a wheelchair. Therefore, we will need a car with lots of storage space and if possible a ramp for easy
access. Can we have a seven -seater family van?

Please cou ld you let me know if you have anything suitable and whether there would be an extra cost.
I n addition, I would like to know whether your prices include insuran ce. If so, would you send me details of
your insurance conditions?

I would appreciate a prompt reply. (158 words)

Yours faithfully,

Sample 106 Occasion / Formal letter

Your local authorities have decided to open an adult education centre in your area where people from 18 to 30 can
follow courses and activities which interest them. They have invited the public to write giving their views on
• its value to the community
• op ening hours, facilities which the building should have and its location.

Dear_ __ __ __

I am writing in response to the decision to open an adult education centre in our area.

Firstly, let me state th at I was delighted when I heard th e news t hat such a centre was to be established in our
com munity. In my view, it will provide va luable services not normally available to most people. It is not often
that one has the chance to go back to school due t o responsibilities such as work and child-rearing.

I believe that the centre should have as many courses and activities as possible. For example, by providing
facilities such as a science laboratory, not only will students benefit, but the centre will as well.
In order for people to be able to use the centre effectively, I think that the most suitable opening hours would
be from 8.30 am to 8.30 pm, Monday to Friday. For those of us who cannot attend during the week, the centre
could open on Saturday from 8.30 am to 1.00 pm. As far as people with children are concerned, perhaps the
centre co uld set up a day-care unit so that youngsters could be looked after while their parents attend classes.
Regarding location, I would suggest that the ce ntre will be built along the riverside, overlooking Sunset Bay.
It is the most inspiring place and very convenient as it is close to the bus and t rain stations. Alternatively,
the centre could be built in the park besid e the Museum of Fine Arts.

All in all, I think that an adult education centre wi ll help to enhance our community both culturally and
fi nancially. I am looking forward to taking adva ntage of the wonderful opportunity that is being offered .
(280 words)
Yours Sincerely,
146 Cla ssified & Standard Samples - T ask 1 {GT)

Sample 107 Occasion / Formal letter

You are organising a graduation party for your class and want to book a restaurant.
Write a letter to the manager ofyour favourite restaurant In your letter
• explain tlte reason for the party and the date it will be held
• say !,ow many people will be attending
• describe some particular food you would like to be served.

Dear_ _ _ _ _ _

I would like to ask about t he possibility of booking your restaurant on the 10t h of March for our IELTS
graduation party. If it is possible, we wou ld like to hold the party at 9:30 pm. Altogether, we will be a group of
19 people; 18 stu dents and our teacher.

Last time that I ca me to you r restaurant, I particularly enjoyed the roast ch icken. Therefore, I th ink menu 3 is
more suitable for o ur celebration as it offers various foods. Can y ou serve green sa lad as a side dish? We wou ld
like a heart-shaped chocolate cake for our teache r showing his age- he is 28 years old . I wou ld also like to
know if it is possible to prepare special vegetarian meals, as three of the guests do not eat meat. Would you
play a soft background song to make the atmosphere livelier?

I look forward to hearing from you as soon as possible. (156 words)

Yours faithfully,

Sample 108 Occasion I Formal letter

Your College Principal has asked you to help organise a student party at the college in aid of charity.
You are a college student Write a letter to the College Principal. In your letter,
• accept the invitation
• suggest a suitable location for the party
• offer to help wit!, som e aspect of the party.

Dear_ __ _ __

I wo uld like to t hank you for your kin d invitation to help organise a fundraising party at th e college.
I wou ld be delighted to help raise money for Oxfam, wh ich is a charity many students here already support.

I think it would be a good idea to hold the party in the sports hall as we can make use of all the space fo r
enjoying. And all the students can easily benefit from all the facilities which have been provided.

I would be happy to organise the catering . I think I can encourage our ca nteen to donate some food so that we
can make plenty of sandwiches and salads for the buffet. I will also make sure students on the food technol ogy
course volunteer to help put some hot food on the menu too.

Thank you once again for your invitation t o help and I look forward to hearing from you soon. (152 word s)

Yours sincerely,
 Classified & Standard Samples - T ask 1 (GT) 147

Sample 109 Occasion / Formal letter

The course director ofyour previous college has invited you to attend a party for new students, and he has also asked
you to give a talk about studying overseas. You have a11 important examination on the same day so yo u cannot attend
the party. Write to the director
• apologise and explain why you cannot attend
• suggest another date when you could give your talk.

Dear_ _ __ _ __

Thank you for your invitation to atten d the party for new stu dents on t he 29th of Jan uary. Thank you also for
thin ki ng of me to give a talk. However, unfortunately I am unable to attend the party.

I am afraid, on the followin g day I have my first semester economics exam. This is a complicat ed subject and a
good mark is essential for me, so I ha ve to spend the day before stu dying. I asked m y lecturer if it wou ld be
possible t o take the examination on another date, but t h is is not perm itted. However, I would be very ha ppy to
give the talk on another date. I am available on the 5th and 6th of February. If one of those dates is co nvenient
for you, please let me know. I can be co ntacted at the address above or by fax o r tele pho ne.

I hope that everyone at th e college is well, and I hope that you r party is a great success. I look fo rwa rd to
hearing from you . (169 words)

Yours sincerely,

Sample 110 Charge / Formal letter

You belong to a g roup which uses a hall near your home to meet once a month. You have been using the hall for the
past three years. You have just heard that the rent will double next month. Your group cannot possibly afford such a
large increase. Write to the manager of the hall. In your letter
• say what you like about it
• ask to keep the rent unchanged.

Dear _ _ _ __ _ _

I am writing on beha lf of our IELTS Train ing Group who has been using the 'Small Meeting Hall' in your centre
for the past th ree years. The location of your center is very conve nient as it is close to our la nguage institu te,
where most of us belong t o, and we have been happy to use you r good facilit ies once a month for our
commu nity and educational events. Your personnel kn ow us well, and we never caused any problems to the
centre.

Last Monday when we ca lled to reserve the hall for our workshop, the receptionist informed us a bout the new
doubled rate. This was such disappointing news, and we all beca me very unhappy. I hope you know that people
working in education, and voluntarily serving t he commu n ity cannot afford to pay a rate which is too h igh.
We will appreciate if you ca n find a way to keep t he rent unchanged for our group for at least next half of t he
year or as an exception , offer a m ore reasonable rate. Th an k you for you r support.
I look forward to your posit ive reply . (183 wo rds )

Sincerely,

Programme Coord inator

148 Classified & Standa rd Samples - Task 1 (GT}

Sample 111 Charge / Formal letter

Your car insurance company has told you that they are going to increase the amount you have to pay in insurance
each month. You are not happy about this.
Write a leiter to your insurance company. In your letter, explain
• why you are writing
• why you think the insurance should not be increased
• what you want them to do.
Dear_ _ _ _ _ __

I am writing to you as I recently received a letter from you informing me that the insurance premium for my
car is going to increase from next month. [Insurance no: 1234)

As you will be aware if you check my records, I have held my insurance with your company for nearly seven
years now. During t his time, I have not had any accidents, and never had any reason to make a claim on my
insurance.

I understand that at times prices need to be increased. However, this increase you are suggesting will result in
a 20% increase in the amount I pay each month, a rate I feel is too high .

I would the refore like you to writ e back to me and explain why such an increase has been proposed. If you are
unable to justify it to my satisfaction, then I am afraid that I will have no other option but to move my
insurance to another company.

I look forward to hearing from you. ( 167 words)

You rs faithfully,

Sample 112 Selling / Informal letter

You want to sell some ofyour furniture. You think a f riend ofyours might like to buy it f rom you.
Write a letter to your friend. in your letter
• explain why you are selling
• describe the f urniture
• suggest a date when your f riend can come and see the furniture.

Dear_ _ _ _ _ __

As you know, we'll be moving to a new house soon and t here are a few t hings that I won't be able to take with
me. The new house is a bit sma ller so I have to sell some furniture and I was wondering if you might be
interested?

In particular I want to sell my big dining table. Do you remember it-the one in the living room? It has wooden
legs and a grey glass top and it's big enough for six people. There are six matchi ng chairs t o go with it.

I know you've always liked this furnit ure so I could let you have it at a good price. I'd rather sell it to you than
to a stranger!

Why don't you come around and take another look at them on Saturday? We'll be here all day, so maybe we
could have some lunch together?

Give me a ring and let me know. (154 words )

Love,
 Cla s sified & Standard Samples - Task 1 ( GT)
149

Sample 113 Selling / Informal letter

You want to sell your bicycle. You think a friend ofyours m ight like to buy it from you.
Write a letter to your friend. In your letter
• explain why you are selling
• describe the bicycle
• suggest a date when your f riend can come and see the bicycle.

Dear_ _ _ _ __

As you know, I 'll be going home at the end of term and I've decided to sell my bicycle- it wou ld cost me a
fortune; too much to ship it to my hometown. I just wanted to know if you might be interested in buying it.

It's a mountain bike, four years o ld now, and it was brand new when I bought it. It is green and black with a
silver stripe. I have looked after it very well; having it serviced every year. The tyres are in very good
condition. And the speedometer is so accurate . I am happy to include lights and a cycling helmet in t he price.
It's a Raleigh bicycle- very good design and I want to sell it for around £40.

Why don't you come round and have a look sometime? I'm sure it won't let you down. What about next
Saturday morning when we don't have classes.

Gimme a call and let me know. (159 words)

See yo u,

Sample 114 Selling / Informal letter

You want to sell your television. You think a f riend ofyours might like to buy it f rom you.
Write a letter to your friend. In your letter
• explain why you are selling the television
• describe the television
• suggest a date when your f riend can com e and see it.

Dear_ _ _ _ __

Haven't really got much to say, as I 've all been really busy since I spoke to you; as busy as a bee!
Peter, as you know, I'm moving abroad and there is so much to do!

There are a few things that I can't take with me because they are too big so I am seeing if any of my friends
would be interested in buying them. One of t he things I d o not want t o take is my television, and I thought yo u
might like to buy it for a cheap price.

It's a 42" Plasma Screen Television; 'Crystal' model. It is programmable and compatible with any hardware
devices - it has USB and SD card ports so you ca n just plug in a th umb drive to watch movies or listen to
music. It has great stereo surround sound system.

As you know, I'm leaving th e country at the end of the month, which is only two weeks away. So if you want to
see it , it would be best to come on 20th o r 21st. That will give me time to sell it elsewh ere if you are not
interested.

OK, please call or SMS if you can't make it . (198 words)

Bye for now,

150 Classified & Standard Samples - Task 1 (GT)

Sample 11 S Friendship / Informal letter

A Canadian friend recently sent you a present by post. You want to thank him/her.
• say how you felt when you received the present.
• describe what you like about it
• explain how you will use the present.

Dear_ __ _ __

I can't tell you how surprised I w as when the package from Cana da arrived. The postman brought it last
Saturday and I w as very excited when I saw th at it was from you. Then when I opened it and saw t he beautiful
silk scarf you 've sent m e for m y birthday I have to say I was truly delighted. Thank you so much!

You remember m y ta ste in colours very well. ~ I really love the mix of blues and greys in the design, and the
silk feels very soft. I can't t hank yo u enough for the gift. I know t hat I intend t o wear it every weekend when
I go out with t he family- and we'll have to take some pictures ~ you can see how good it looks, even if I say so
myself.

So t hank you once again. Chris. Give m y regards to your folks, .Q.Y..t lots of love t o you and Peter.

I 'll write to you soon and send that photo!

Best wishes, (167 wo rd s)

Sample 116 Friendship / Informal letter

A friend you met last year has invited you to visit them in their country.
You have never been there before and need some information before you leave.
Write a letter to your friend. In your letter
• request advice about a gift for his/her family
• ask about activities and clothing
• find out about the food.

Dear _ _ _ _ __

Hi there, I hope you' re enjoying your college year. Thanks very much for asking me to come and visit you in
Singapore. As you know, I haven't tra ve lled to Asia before, so I thought I 'd write and ask you a few questions.

I want to bring a present with me and I wondered what would be appropriate. Perhaps you cou ld let m e know
what your m um's hobbies are and then I could come u p with an idea based on one of them.

Also, what sort of clothes should I bring? I know it's pretty warm where you live but do I need j u mpers or a
coa t ? What sort of activities a re we likely to do while I'm there and should I bring t hi ngs like swimming gear
or trai ners.

Lastly, I hate to be nuisance but I hope yo u remember that I'm vegetarian. I do eat fish and eggs but I don't
eat red meat and chicken at all. I s that going to be a problem?

Look forward to hearing fro m you . ( 171 wo rds)

All good wishes,

 Classified & Standard Samples - Task 1 (GT)
151

Sample 117 Friendship I Informal letter

You recently attended your friend's party. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter
• thank for the hospitality provided
• thank for his/her gift
• tell him/her to visit your hometown.

Dear_ __ _ __

We've just got back and I wanted to write to you immediately to tell you what a great weekend we had with
you. Thanks a lot for inviting us-it was a real break for us both.

I didn't rea lise before that you lived so close to the sea. To my mind, going for walks along the beach was really
relaxing. We especially, enjoyed the meal in the restaurant on Sunday. It was a great little place, and the snack
was great too! It was lovely to see you and chat about old times. I also enjoyed the wonderful mea l you gave
us last night! Thank you so much. I must get that recipe for that great chocolate cake from you although
I'm not sure I will be able to make it as well as you did!

Also I want to thank you for the lovely china vase you gave us. Your present was such a wonderful surprise.
It looks fantastic in the hall and is just the right style for the house. I do hope we can come back and visit you
again soon

Remember, you're always welcome to come and stay with us. We have plenty of rooms here, and t here are
some interesting places we can visit. Bet you like them!

Thanks again for putting us up, and keep in touch! (222 words)

With much love,

Sample 118 Friendship I Informal letter

Last month you had a holiday overseas where you stayed with some f riends.
They have just sent you some p hotos ofyour holiday. Write a letter to your friends. In your letter
• thank them fo r the photos and for the holiday
• explain why you didn 't write earlier
• invite them to come am/ stay with you.

Dear_ __ __ _

Thanks so much for you r kind letter and the lovely photos of my holiday in Mumbai. Sorry for the delay in
acknowledgi ng your mail, but your package arrived just as I was about to leave town on a business trip.
I've just returned to Toronto today.

Looking at the photos brings back so many happy memories of the times we spent together and t he wonderful
hospitality you extended to me. I felt completely pampered by both of you! You surrounded me with wa rm
friends, good food, amazing sights, great shopping, unforgettable cultu ral events and laughter-filled evenings.
I would have been lost without you. I can't thank you enough.

These good memories gave me an idea . I know you've always wanted to visit Canada. Why don 't you plan a
holiday and stay with me this summer? The weather is great at that t ime of year, all tourist sites are open and
I could take two weeks off from work. Aside from seeing Toronto, we cou ld drive to Niagara Falls, Thousand
I slands, Montreal, Ottawa and Quebec City. I would be thrilled if you cou ld make it.

Thank you both again for the beautiful holiday and the photos which are already up on my wall. Now,
I'm looking forward to hearing from you. (210 wo rd s)

Warm wishes,
152 Classified & Standard Samples - T ask 1 (GT)

Sample 119 Friendship / Informal letter

You want something that you can 't buy in your own country. You decide to ask an English friend to help you.
Write a letter to a friend. ln your letter
• say what you want
• explain why you want it
• suggest how your friend could help.

Dear_ _ _ _ __

I hope you are well and enjoying being back at university after the holiday.

I wonder if you could do me a favour. Would it be possible to buy some books suitable for a 14 year old boy?
My friend (Jasmine) has a son who is not doing particularly wel l in his English classes at school. His English is
actua lly good, but he's lost motivation and Jasmine wondered whether it might help if he could be persuaded to
do some more reading in the language. As you know, it's very difficult to get hold of English books here and the
ones in the bookshops are rather boring for a teenage boy . As you have two youn ger brothers, I thought you
might have some suggestions about what he would enjoy.

If you could choose a couple of books, Jasmine would be very happy to send money to cover the cost of the
books and postage. I hope you don't mind my asking you to do this, 2fil! do let me know if there's anything I
can send you from here to say t hank you. (179 words)

Best wishes,

Sample 120 Friendship / Semi-formal letter

A friend has asked you to babysit on Saturday and wants to know how much you charge p er hour fo r this.
Unfortunately, you already have a commitment this weekend and cannot help. However, you are free the following
weekend. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter
• explain that you are not able to help this time, but could help later
• explain also what your fee for tire service is.

Dear_ _ _ _ _ _,

Than k you fo r aski ng me to babysit for you. As you know I enjoy looking after Anthony and would be happy to
help you out. However, this weekend I already have a commitment which I cannot break.

My parents are coming to visit and I am going to take them down to the coast ~ I have often promised to do.
Th ey are getting older so I like to spend as much time with them as possible. Also, it is my fath er's birthday
and I want to celebrate with them. I am really sorry that I am not able to help this time, but I am free next
weekend and would be glad to babysit for you then, if you should choose to go out for the evening.

My charge is fifteen dollars per hour until midnight and t wenty dollars per hour after that. You would need to
give me any special instructions you might have and, of. course, leave a phone number in case of emergency.
(167 words)

Yours sincerely,
Exercises - Task 1 (GT)
153

Exercise 1
You are unhappy about a plan to make your local airport bigger and increase the number offlights.
You live near the airport
Write a letter to your local newspaper. In your letter
• explain where you live
• describe the problem
• give reasons why you do not want this development.

Exercise 2
A motonvay is to be built near your house. As you think that it will destroy areas of natural beauty.
Write a letter to the local authorities. In your letter
• express your views
• explain what damage will be caused
• suggest alternative routes.

Exercise 3
You work for a children's home which needs volunteers to help at weekends.
Write to the local newspaper. In your letter
• request that they publicise the vacancies
• include details of what is required of the applicants
• explain the ways in which both volunteers and children might benefit

Exercise 4
You are a member of an environmental protection society which is organising a 'clean-up' weekend.
Write a letter to the headmaster ofyour local school. In your letter
• ask for students' help
• explain what activities will be involved
• explain !row useful it will be for tire community as a whole.

Exercise S
A local newspaper for tourists is running a competition to find the 'Restaurant of the Year'.
Readers are invited to write a letter to the newspaper. Write a letter
• describe the restaurant they wish to nominate
• focus on tire food, the service and atmosphere
• explain clearly how this popular restaurant has attracted a wide range of customers.

Exercise 6
You are studying overseas. You need to return to your country before the end of tire semester for a family event
Write a letter to your supervisor. In your letter
• request the time off
• explain why you need to leave early
• reassure him/her that your studies will not suffer.
154 Exercises - Task 1 (GT)

Exercise 7
You have a full-time job and are also doing a part-time evening course. You now find that you cannot continue the
course. Write a letter to the course tutor. In your letter
• describe the situation
• explain why you cannot continue at this time
• say what action you would like to take.

Exercise 8
You are taking a course at a local college. The deadline for your project was last week but you have not finished it.
Write a letter to your lecturer. In your letter
• introduce yourself
• explain why you have not handed in the projects yet
• request more time to do it.

Exercise 9
You were unable to attend an important meeting at which you were supposed to make a presentation
Write to the chairman
• apologise
• explain your absence
• suggest alternative arrangements for the presentation.

Exercise 10
A friend recently invited you to a special party. You intended to go but at the last minute you were unable to attend.
Write a letter to your friend. In your letter
• apologise for not attending the party
• explain what prevented you from going
• suggest a way ofmaking up for this.

Exercise 11
You are renting a flat from an agency. Your contract was for one year but you need to leave the flat four months
early. Write a letter to the agency. In your letter
• introduce yourself
• ask to leave the flat before the contract finishes
• explain why you need to break the contract

Exercise 12
On a recent holiday you lost a valuable item. Fortunately you have travel insurance to cover the cost of anything
lost. Write a letter to the manager ofyour insurance company. 111 your letter
• describe the item you lost
• explain how you lost it
• tell the insurance company what you would like them to do.
Exercises - Task 1 (GT) 155

Exercise 13
You havej11st spent the weekend in Sydney where you attended a conference. You accidentally left one ofyour bags
in the taxi on the way to the airport It contained presents for your family, clothing and a copy ofyour research
paper you gave at the conference. You rang the Lost Property Department of the taxi department but they were
unhelpful and very rude.
Write a letter to the Lost Property Department at the taxi company.
• advise them of the circumstances in which you lost yo11r bag
• provide details about the bag and its contents
• complain about their Jack of help in this matter.

Exercise 14
You recently took a trip with a taxi company. The driver behaved in an unacceptable way and you had a lot of
problems. You complained to the company but no one has replied to your complaint.
Write a letter to the taxi company. In your Jetter
• say why you are writing and how you feel
• explain what happened
• tell them what you would like them to do.

Exercise 1S
You have bo11ght a new laptop from a reputable company and in a few days ofpurchase discovered major problems.
Write a Jetter to the company. In your letter
• say when yo11 bought it
• explain the problems
• say what action you would like the company to take.

Exercise 16
You recently went shopping at the local supermarket. When you got home and studied your bill you found that you
had been charged for items you did not purchase.
Write a Jetter to the supermarket manager
• explain what has happened
• tell the manager how you feel about the error
• ask him to do something about it.

Exercise 17
You are a regular customer ofa local restaurant. The last time you ate there, however, you felt that the standards
had dropped slightly. Write a letter to the manager ofthe restauranl In your letter
• say when you were there
• explain why you were disappointed
• suggest what could be done to improve the situation.

Exercise 18
You recently joined a book club and are very dissatisfied with both the service and the books you have received.
Write a letter to the manager of the book club. In your letter
• state what type of membership you have
• state the reasons for your dissatisfaction
• state what you expect to he done.
156 Exercises - Task 1 (GT)

Exercise 19
An old car was left on the street near your apartment block several weeks ago. You telephoned the local council to
get them to take it away, but nothing has been done abo ut it. The car is now causing a problem for residents.
Write a letter to the Council. In your letter
• describe the car
• outline the problems it is causing
• tell the council what you want them to do.

Exercise 20
You are going to start a course at a college in Australia. Write a letter to tlte admissions tutor. In the letter
• say when and where you are arriving
• explain that you are not familiar with the city
• say what you need from tlte college.

Exercise 21
You have seen an advertisement/or part-time work in a hotel for three months over the summer.
Write a letter to the Manager. In your letter
• say what experience you have
• ask what the work involves
• enquire about conditions.

Exercise 22
You successfully passed a job interview. You were told to start your work 0 11 July 10th but unfortunately you cannot
attend your workplace on that day. Write a letter to your new employer. In your letter
• express your appreciation for the interview
• explain your situation
• suggest a solution.

Exercise 23
Write a letter to the manager of the company that you work for. In your letter
• write about the positive points ofyour workplace
• write about the problems ofyour workplace
• suggest what changes are needed to make your work conditions better.

Exercise 24
You have just moved into a new home and are planning to hold a party. You are worried that the noise may disturb
your neighbour. Write a letter to your neighbour. In your letter
• introduce yourself
• describe your plans for the party
• invite your neighbour to come.
Exercises - Task 1 (GT)
157

Exercise 25
You have been invited to your friend's birthday party. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter
• accept the invitation and thank your friend
• ask about his or her plans
• suggest how you can help.

Exercise 26
You have been with an old friend for a f ew days. You hadn't seen each other for a long time.
Write a letter to the friend. In your letter
• say how you felt about the visit
• refer to something enjoyable that you did while staying with him/her
• invite your friend for the weekend.

Exercise 27
You play sport (e.g. football) for a local team. You recently heard that a player in your team is in hospital.
Write a letter to your team mate. In your letter
• say how you f eel about the news
• ask about the treatment in the hospital
• suggest some ways of cheering him/her up.

Exercise 28
You are going to take a holiday. Write a letter to afrieml asking him/her to look after your house. In the letter
• say where and when you go
• tell your friend what needs to be done while you are away
• arrange to m eet your friend before you go.

Exercise 29
You have a friend who lives in a city overseas. You are applying to do a course at one ofthe colleges in this city.
Write a letter to your friend. In your letter
• ask what the city is like
• say what work or study you are doing now
• explain why you would like to do this course in the future.

Exercise 30
A n English-sp eaking friend has written to you to ask you how your !EL TS studies are going. Write a letter telling
your friend how you are preparing for the test.
• say what progress you are making
• explain how you are preparing for the test
• say which section you are finding the most difficult