IELTS General Writing Task 1 semi-formal Topics/Questions 2026

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This section presents a list of common IELTS General Writing Task 1 semi-formal topics. All these topics were added in 2026 by students who took the IELTS recently. Pick a random topic and start practicing and improving your writing skills.

semi-formal
Write a letter to landlord about the problem you have in house of renting.

semi-formal
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.

semi-formal
our neighbours have recently written to you to complain about the noise from your house/ flat. Write a letter to your neighbours. In your letter explain the reasons for the noise apologise describe what action you will take You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

semi-formal
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. You are going to study in a college in the UK next year. You would like to stay in a college Hall of Residence. Write a letter to the college. In your letter explain your accommodation requirements explain what your food needs are ask what alternatives are available if they cannot provide what you want You should write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows:

semi-formal
Mrs Barrett, an English-speaking woman who lives in your town, has advertised for someone to help her in her home for a few hours a day next summer. Write a letter to Mrs Barrett. In your letter - suggest how you could help her in her home -say why you would like to do this work -explain when you will and will not be available

semi-formal
Write a letter to Mrs Barrett. In your letter, suggest how you could help her in her home say why you would like to do this work explain when you will and will not be available Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Mrs Barrett,

semi-formal
WRITING TASK 1 You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. You are applying for a job and need a letter of reference from one of your teachers. Write a letter to your teacher. In your letter: Give details of the job & position you are applying for Explain why the reference is important Suggest what information your teacher could put in the reference Write at least 150 words.

semi-formal
You are about to move out of your apartment in an English-speaking country. Your landlord helped you a lot during your stay and you have a friend who would like to rent the flat after you. Write a letter to your landlord. In your letter let your landlord know that you will be leaving thank your landlord for his / her help tell him/her about your friend

semi-formal
You currently live in a rental appointment and the noise from your neighbours disturbs you. Write a letter to your landloard. In your letter, - Describe how this situation affects you - Explain what steps you have taken to address the problem - Ask the landloard to take action to resolve the issue

semi-formal
You have applied for a position in an international organisation and you need to provide a reference letter. Write a letter to your former teacher asking hin/her to write it for you. Give your full detail describe a job you are going to do their Say why its impotant to you.

semi-formal
You are having problems with a neighbour’s animals because the fence between your properties is old and In poor repair. You want the neighbour to pay half the cost of building a new fence. Write a letter to your neighbour. In your letter: say what the problems are explain how a new fence will solve the problems suggest that the neighbour pays half of the cost ​ You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear .....................,

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Write a letter to a teacher asking for a reference letter for a job and explain: – Why you have chosen him to write the reference letter – What kind of job you are applying for – Why you think you are suitable for this job

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Your child's teacher has requested a meeting with you this Friday to discuss your child's low test scores. Unfortunately, you cannot attend. Write a letter to your child's teacher. In your letter • Describe why you cannot attend the meeting • Explain how you have been helping your child study • Propose another time to meet

semi-formal
Your neighbours have recently written to you to complain about the noise from your house/ flat. Write a letter to your neighbours. In your letter •explain the reasons for the noise •apologise •describe what action you will take

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You have seen an advertisement for a community college that needs teachers for night classes. Write a letter to the community college. In your letter: say which advertisement you are answering describe which course(s) you want to teach, and what it/they would be about explain why you would be a suitable teacher

semi-formal
You are interested in attending a short course at a college in an English speaking country. Write a letter to the college administration. In the letter: • mention what course you would like to attend • give details about your educational background and work experience • say why you choose this college

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You are a student at an English language school in Brighton and are living in private accommodation with other flat mates. You have not had hot water or heating for some time. The landlord’s workmen have tried to fix the problem but without success. Write a letter to the landlord. In your letter: • state your reason for writing • describe the problems • propose a solution

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Topic 2. Your neighbours have a dog that is noisy at night. You can't sleep. Write a letter to your neighbours. In your letter describe the problem with the dog explain why it is important for you to sleep  outline what your neighbours could do about the situation.

semi-formal
Write a letter to a community college in America which invited you to talk about your country. In your letter Accept invitation and suggest preferable dates Tell them what your talks will be about And what equipment you require them to arrange

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Mrs Barret, an English-speaking woman who lives in your hometown, has advertised for someone to help her in her home for a few hours a day next summer. Write a letter to Mrs Barret. In your letter - Suggest how you could help her in her home - Say why you would like to do this work - Explain when you will and will not be available

semi-formal
you are going to teach english to your friends's child write a letter to your past english teacher to ask if you can borrow some books from him/her. tell your teacher about the child; say when and where you will teach the child; explain what books you would like to borrow.

semi-formal
Mrs Barrett, an English-speaking woman who lives in your town, has advertised for someone to help her in her home for a few hours a day next summer. Write a letter to Mrs Barrett. In your letter suggest how you could help her in her home say why you would like to do this work explain when you will and will not be available

semi-formal
You live in a small apartment building with a parking lot in back, and you often cannot find an empty parking space when you get home from work. Write a letter to your landlord. In your letter • describe the situation • explain why it bothers you • suggest something the landlord could do to solve the problem Begin your letter as follows: Dear………..

semi-formal
While you were studying in the UK, you made friends with John Blaire who was one of your course tutors. He is coming to your country an international conference. You want to invite him to stay at your place and spend some time together. Write a letter to him. In your letter, • Ask him about the conference • Invite him to stay at your place • Suggest some things you can do together

semi-formal
You recently booked a part-time course at a college. You now need to cancel your booking. Write a letter to the college admministrator. In your letter. say which part-time course you booked explain why you need to cacel your booking ask about booking a different course

semi-formal
Your neighbours have recently written to you to complain about the noise from your house flat. Write a letter to your neighbours. In your letter: • explain the reason for the noise • apologies for the noise • describe what action you will take

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You would like to reduce your working hours in order to study part-time. Write a letter to your boss. In your letter: •Explain why you want to reduce your working hours, •Say which hours you would like to work, •Describe how your part-time studies would benefit your employer. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear …………….. , You get 20 minutes to complete this task.

semi-formal
A young person will start work at your office next month to gain work experience. Write a letter to him/her. In your letter ▪️Inform him/her about the work that needs to be done at the office; ▪️Explain what he/she is supposed to do on the first day; ▪️Suggest what he/she should bring to work

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ou had a birthday party and you were playing loud music. Your neighbor complained. Write a letter of apology explaining that it was a special occasion and that it won't happen again.

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You rent a flat with your friend who is moving out. It is too expensive for you to pay the rent alone. Write a letter to your landlord. In your letter: 1. Explain the situation. 2. Describe why you would like to stay in this flat. 3. Ask the landlord if you can find another flatmate. Write at least 150 words. You do not need to write any addresses. Begin you letter as follows: Dear_______,

semi-formal
You live in a small apartment building with a parking lot in back, and you often cannot find an empty parking space when you get home from work. Write a letter to your landlord. In your letter • describe the situation. • explain why it bothers you. • suggest something the landlord could do to solve the problem.

semi-formal
Write a letter to your landlord complaining about noise in the block of flats which he owns. You should include -where you live -explain the problem -what he should do

semi-formal
Your neighbor has been making a lot of noise recently. This has been causing you problems, and you want to ask them to stop. Write a letter to your neighbor in your letter: Ask for an explanation for the noise Explain the problem this has cause to you Say what will happen if the problem is not solved.

semi-formal
You are applying for a job and need a letter of reference from one of your teachers. Write a letter to your teacher. In your letter: Give details of the job & position you are applying for Explain why the reference is important Suggest what information your teacher could put in the reference Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear .....................

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After being involved in an accident, you were looked after by another person. Write a letter to him/her. In your letter Thank him/her for the timely assistance Describe how emergent the situation is Think highly of his/her selfless behavior

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Your colleague is traveling from another country by plane for a meeting. You have arranged the airport pickup, hotel accommodation and planned his/her meetings. Write a letter to your colleague. In your letter, – Say when and where you will meet him/her – Explain where he/she will stay – Tell him/her about the other arrangements you made.

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You are studying mathematics at university and have an assignment next week. You have been sick. Write a letter to your teacher sking for an extension on your assignment. In the letter, · explain that you are a student of mathematics class · explain that you have been sick · ask for an extension Begin your letter with Dear …,

semi-formal
You have invited to your friend’s wedding, which will take place in another country next month. Write a letter to the couple and say that you cannot attend. Explain why you are unable to come. Invite them to visit you after the wedding. Describe some activities you can do together when they visit.

semi-formal
You have seen an advertisement from a couple, who live in Australia, for someone to teach their children your language for a year. Write a letter to the couple. In your letter •Explain why you think you would be suitable for the job •Say what else you could do for the family •Give your reasons for wanting the job

semi-formal
You are experiencing financial problems and want to ask you landlord if you can pay your rent late. Write a letter to your landlord. In your letter explain. -why you can't pay the rent when you will pay the rent How you will ensure you can pay the rent in the future

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Write a letter to your colleague from another department asking him/her to give presentation at a conference. In your letter say : 1. What is the conference about 2. Why do you want him/her to give the presentation 3. What arrangements will you have to make

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You and a couple of your colleagues would like to participate in a work-related seminar. Write a letter to your colleague who is the person in charge of the seminar and ask for: Detailed information regarding the dates Program schedule Enquire about cost and possible discounts for groups

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You recently booked a part-time course at a college. You now need to cancel your booking. Write a letter to the college administrator. In your letter -Say which part-time course you booked -Explain why you need to cancel your booking -Ask about booking a different course

semi-formal
You applied for a job and were offered the position but have decided not to accept the offer. Write a letter to the HR supervisor with whom you interviewed. In your letter: - explain the reason why you are declining the offer - describe your reasons for staying with your current position.

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

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Your colleague recently gave you a book. You had a presentation, and this book helped you in the presentation. Write a letter to your colleague. In your letter, • tell the topic of your presentation • why the presentation was important for you • how the book helped you in presentation

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-You have seen an advertisement from a couple, who live in Australia, for someone to teach their two children your language for a year Write a letter to the couple. in your letter, • explain why you think you would be suitable for the job • say what else you could do for the family • give your reasons for wanting the job Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses.

semi-formal
After being involved in an accident, you were looked after by a person you did not know before. Write a special thank you letter to express your gratitude. In your letter: •introduce yourself and let him/her know why you are writing •express your appreciation •and offer him/ her to visit your home with his/her family 

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

Dear ……………….,

semi-formal
Write a minimum of 150 words. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. Write about the following topic: You want to arrange a conference for your company, and you need to ask one of your colleagues to give a presentation in this conference. Write a letter to your colleague. In your letter include: • Details about the conference • Why do you want your colleague to give a presentation? • What arrangement will you do for this conference?

semi-formal
Question. You exercise regularly and have been a member of many different gyms. Recently you moved into a new neighbourhood and joined a new gym. You have noticed people at this gym do not bother to wipe down the machines after use and often leave dirty towels on the benches in the change rooms. Write to Mr Koto, the manager. In your letter: Explain who you are Describe the problem exactly Make suggestions to improve the gym

semi-formal
You paid a refundable deposit when you rented an apartment. You left the apartment in good condition but the Landlord won't return your deposit. Write a letter to the landlord. In your letter explain why you are writing ask for the return of your deposit inform the landlord of possible legal action

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You have had a problem with your neighbor for the past few months. You have not been able to meet with your neighbor to discuss the problem. Write a letter to your neighbor. In your letter: ·       Explain the problem ·       Suggest a solution ·       Say what action you will take if the situation does not improve Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Ms. Granger,

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Although you are meant to present your thesis project in one month, your sister is getting married in Spain at the same time. You would like to change the date of your presentation. Write a letter to your professor. In your letter: -Explain the situation -Remind the professor of your academic achievements to date -Ask for a different date to present your thesis Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Professor Simons,

semi-formal
After being involved in an accident, you were looked after by a person you did not know before. Write a special thank you letter to express your gratitude. In your letter: +Introduce yourself and let him/her know why you are writing +Express your appreciation +And offer him/ her to visit your home with this family.

semi-formal
Write a letter to the person in charge of the seminar and ask for detailed information regarding the dates, program, accommodation and cost.

semi-formal
You have enrolled in an evening course but you have found that you are too busy to continue and would like to take the course next term instead. Write a letter to your teacher. In your letter: Explain the situation and why you cannot continue the course say what you would like to do about your studies ask for advice about what you can do about the situation. Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses.

semi-formal
You are shifting out of your accommodation. You think your current place of residence is suitable for your English speaking colleague who is arriving next month. Write a letter to your colleague. Explain why you are shifting out Describe your accommodation Explain why it is suitable for your friend

semi-formal
You are going to teach English to your friend’s child. Write a letter to your past English teacher to ask if you can borrow some books from him/her. In your letter tell your teacher about the child. say when and where you will teach the child. explain what books you would like to borrow.

semi-formal
Write a letter to your partner to cancel an appointment

semi-formal
Mrs Barrett, an English-speaking woman who lives in your town, has advertised for someone to help her in her home for a few hours a day next summer. Write a letter to Mrs Barrett. In your letter -suggest how you could help her in her home -ay why you would like to do this work -explain when you will and will not be available

semi-formal
Your neighbours have recently written to you to complain about the noise from your house/flat. Write a letter to your neighbours. In your letter : 1. Explain the reason for the noise 2. Apologise 3. Describe what action you will take Start with Dear, Mr. Zaveri and Mr. Dalal

semi-formal
During a recent plane journey, you sat next to a businessman who owns a chain of restaurants. You talked to him and he suggested that you should contact him about a possible job in one of his restaurants. Write a letter to this businessman. In your letter -Remind him when and where you met -Tell him what kind of job you are interested in -Say why you think you would be suitable for the job

semi-formal
You had a birthday party and you were playing loud music. Your neighbour complained. Write a letter of apology explaining that it was a special occasion and that it won't happen again.

semi-formal
A young person will start work at your office next month to gain work experience. Write a letter to him/her. In your letter •inform him/her about the work that needs to be done at the office; •explain what he/she is supposed to do on the first day; •suggest what he/she should bring to work.

semi-formal
Write a letter to your landlord. In your letter, give details of the last repair work what the problems are now how you would like the landlord to solve these problems

semi-formal
You are going to study in a college in the UK next year. You would like to stay in a college Hall of Residence. Write a letter to the college. In your letter explain your accommodation requirements explain what your food needs are ask what alternatives are available if they cannot provide what you want

semi-formal
You are applying for a job and need a letter of reference from someone who knows you well. Write a letter to your former teacher. In your letter: Explain why you are writing. Describe the job you are applying for. Suggest what information the teacher should include.

semi-formal
During a recent plane journey, you sat next to a businessman who owns a chain of restaurants. You talked to him and he suggested that you should contact him about a possible job in one of his restrauants. Write a letter to this businessman. In your letter, remind him when and where you met, tell him what kind of job you are interested in, say why you think you would be suitable for the job

semi-formal
One of your friends has asked you to be a partner in his new start-up business. Write a letter to him and say - What is your opinion on his new business idea - What have you decided on this matter - What are the reasons for your decision

semi-formal
You recently booked a part-time course at a college. You now need to cancel your booking. Write a letter to the college adminisllator. In your letter • say which part-time course you booked • explain why you need to cancel your booking • ask about booking a different course You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir or Madam,

semi-formal
You have seen an advertisement from a couple, who live in Australia, for someone to teach their two children your language for a year. Write a letter to the couple. In your letter •explain why you think you would be suitable for the job •say what else you could do for the family •give your reasons for wanting the job

semi-formal
You are going to arrange a special party at your home next week. You want to invite a local artist who is a playback singer. Write a letter to him. In your letter explain the occasion to him , invite him to the party, tell him why you wnat him to perform.

semi-formal
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. 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

semi-formal
After being involved in an accident, you were looked after by a person you did not know before. Write a special thank you letter. In your letter: Introduce yourself and let him / her know why you are writing to him / her Express your gratitude Offer him / her to visit your home with his / her family

semi-formal
You are moving home. Write a letter to your neighbours to say goodbye to them and to thank them for their help during your stay. In your letter explain how they helped you say what you will miss the most about the area where you lived invite them to visit you at your new home.

semi-formal
A neighbour has caused damage to your car. Write a letter to him/her. In your letter - Describe the damage - How the damage influences your life - Suggest what actions he/she should take about it

semi-formal
A close relative of yours is having a birthday lunch next Friday, but you know you will be working. Write a letter to your boss or supervisor to ask for some time off. In your letter, explain the situation and why you particularly want to attend the lunch specify the dates, times and amount of time off you will need offer to work late or come in early another time to make up for the time. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Mr. Jones / Dear Mrs. Jones,...

semi-formal
You play a team sport with some friends. Last week a member of the team had an accident and wasn't able to play with you at the weekend. You decide to write to him in hospital, telling him about the match. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter, tell him which team won describe the conditions on the day say how you felt about the match

semi-formal
Your neighbours have recently written to you to complain about the noisefrom your house/flat. write a letter to your neighbours. in your letter - Explain the reason for the noise - apologise - describe what action you will take

semi-formal
You eat at your college cafeteria at lunch time every day.. However, you think it needs some improvements. Write a letter to the college magazine. In your letter: explain what you like about the cafeteria say what is wrong with it suggest how it could be improved Write at least 150 words. Begin your letter as follows: Dear __________

semi-formal
The apartment that you have rented was repaired recently. Later, you discovered some defects in repairs. Write a letter to your landlord. In your letter explain what the problem is suggest how it can be fixed say what you would like the landlord to do about it.

semi-formal
Your friend wants to send her/his children to your house for the weekend. Write a letter to him/her and say - Agree to this arrangement. Say what time is suitable for you. Describe what you are planning to do.

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You recently broke your leg and your colleagues from work sent you get-well cards and presents. Write a letter to them and: - thank them for supporting you - describe how you spend your time - explain your recovery process

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You have received a job offer for a position you have wanted for a long time. Its expected to begin on July 1st. However, you can only start a week later due to personal reasons. Write a letter to your new boss. In your letter: - show enthusiasm for the job - explain the problem - suggest what you can do

semi-formal
You are going to study in a college in the UK next year. You would like to stay in a college Hall of Residence. Write a letter to the college giving your accommodation requirements. You should outline what your room and food needs are and also ask what alternatives are available if they cannot provide what you want. You should write at least 150 words. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. You do NOT need to write your own address.

semi-formal
You rent an apartment and recently a new neighbor has moved in who lives above you. They are making a lot of noise and this is disturbing you. Write a letter to your landlord. In your letter: Explain what the problem is Explain why it is disturbing you so much Tell your landlord what you would like him/her to do about it

semi-formal
You have got a confirmation from Denmark University to study medicine. You have been asked to submit all the details and certify that they are correct. Write a letter to your college sharing information and get it registered at the campus. When you write, you can mention the following: Basic information. Mention that you will attach the supporting documents. Check if there is any other formality before you move to Denmark.

semi-formal
You have decided to resign from your work in order to try a new field. write a letter of resignation to your boss, in your letter. Tell your boss of your decision and explain why you are leaving. Explained what you have learned from your current job and how you feel about leaving. As for a letter of refference.

semi-formal
You had a birthday party and you were playing loud music. Your neighbor Mr. Smith complained. Write a formal letter of apology explaining that it was a special occasion and that it won't happen again.

semi-formal
Mrs Barrett, an English-speaking woman who lives in your town, has advertised for someone to help in her home for a few hours a day next summer. Write a letter to Mrs Barrett. In your letter- Suggest how you could help in her home- home layout, done degree in interior design, garden maintenance, cooking Say why you would like to do this work-social cause, love connecting new people, new ideas Explain when you will and will not be available-weekdays busy not possible, weekends will be there 10am to 5pm

semi-formal
A local college is having an international day. You want to speak about your country to students from different cultures.Write a letter to the college head. In your letter: Tell him/her about the topics that you are going to talk about. Explain why would they be of interest to the students Ask about any arrangement that you need to make to give the talk.

semi-formal
You have just moved into a new home and are planning to hold a party. You are worried that the noise may disturb your neighbor. Write a letter to your neighbor. In your letter • Introduce yourself • Describe your plans for the party • Invite your neighbor to come

semi-formal
You are interested in applying for a new position at your company but have some questions. Write a letter to you boss. In your letter include: Which position you are considering What questions you have about it How your boss can help you decide whether or not to apply. sample ielts answer

semi-formal
Your rental accommodation was recently damaged due to bad weather. Write a letter to the landlord and say • Explain what caused the damage • Why do you need them to fix the problem right away • What needs to be done to fix it

semi-formal
You exercise regularly and have been a member of many different gyms. Recently you moved into a new neighbourhood and joined a new gym. You have noticed people at this gym do not bother to wipe down the machines after use and often leave dirty towels on the benches in the changing rooms. Write to Mr Koto, the manager. In your letter: Explain who you are Describe the problem exactly Make suggestions to improve the gym

semi-formal
You are applying for a job and need a letter of reference. Write a letter to a former teacher. In your letter •give details of the job •explain why it is important for you •suggest what information your teacher could put in the reference

semi-formal
Mrs Barrett, an English-speaking woman who lives in your town, has advertised that someone will help her in her home for a few hours a day next summer. Write a letter to Mrs Barett. In your letter suggest how you could help her in her home say why you would like to do this work explain when you will and will not be available.

semi-formal
You want to study a short course at a college abroad. Write a letter to the college administration. In your letter Explain which course you are inerested in ask about entry requirements request information about acommodation options.

semi-formal
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 You do NOT need to write any address

semi-formal
Write a letter to your penfriend. Advise him/her about the following: listening skills, speaking skills and vocabulary.

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