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 your landlord complaining about noise in the block of flats which he owns. Include Where you live The problem What he should do

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You have arranged a meeting with a business partner.Unfortunately, you have to change the arrangement. Write a letter to your partner. Explain the new arrangement Apology for the changes Explain the reason why the changes were needed.

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You are currently running a course and have a part-time job. Your boss suggested that you leave your course and work full time. Write a letter to your boss. in your letter, you should: -tell him/her your decision -explain the reason of your decision.

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You are librarian and a local residant wrote to you asking to host a community event in the library . Write a letter to him : -tell what kinds of events can be held -tell the procedurec for hosting events in the library -the rules for hosting an event

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You recently heard that your friend has started a new job. Write a letter to congratulate him/her. In your letter: - congratulate them - ask about the new job - suggest a time to meet

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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.

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

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You have left college but you didn't say goodbye to your friend who lived in th room with you because he had a course that time. Write a leeter to him. In your letter Apologize and tell him how you spent the day when you left. Tell him how you got home. Invite him to visit you.

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

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You and your family are living in rented accommodation in an English speaking country. You are not satisfied with the condition of some of the furniture. Write a letter to your landlord. In your letter introduce yourself explain what is wrong with the furniture say what action you would like the landlord to take You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear ................., You should write at least 150 words. Writing task 1Show more

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your neighbours have recently written to you to you about the noise from your houseflat. Write a ltter to your neighbours, in your letter: explain a reason for the noise apologise describe what actions will you take

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You have seen a advertisement in an australian magazine for someone to live with a family for six months and after look after their six year old child. Write a eletterto the parents. In your letter Explain why you would like the Job

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You recently went to a concert and thought one of the singers was very good. You want to tell how you feel. Write a letter to the singer. In your letter: ● say how you feel about his/her performance ● give details of your music-related activities ● explain how you would like him/her to help you with your music-related activities

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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 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

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You have been offered a job that will require you to move to a city that you have never visited before. You have an acquaintance who lives there. Write a letter to the acquaintance. In your letter •explain your situation •say why you feel unsure about living in the city •ask some question about life in the city.

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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_______,

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You successfully passed a job interview. You are expected to start on next month, but you will not be available on that date. Write a letter to your new boss, explaining your situation suggest a solution tell them when you can start

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You are applying for a new job. Write a letter to a former supervisor asking for a reference. In your letter: Describe the job you are applying for Say why you are qualified for the job Explain why you want a reference from this person

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You are experiencing financial problems and want to ask your landlord if you can pay your rent late. Write a letter to your landlord. In your letter explain: •Why you cannot pay the rent •When you will pay the rent. •How you will ensure you can pay your rent in the future

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One of your friends wants to apply for a job involving working with foreign teenagers. Write a letter of recommendation for him/her. In your letter you should say: how long you have known your friend something about your friend’s personality and explain why you think your friend would make a good employee

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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 …,

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You have arranged a meeting with a business partner. Unfortunately, you have to change the arrangement. Write a letter to your business partner. In your letter, apologize for the changes explain the reason why the changes were needed explain the new arrangement

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You have been a living in a rental apartment for the past year. Recently, a new neighbour moved in who has loud parties several times a week. Write a letter to your landlord. In your letter:  Explain the situation  Describe why it bothers you  Suggest a solution

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You share a parking area with several neighbours and have recently started having problems. Write a letter to be copied to all neighbours that share the parking area. In that letter • explaining the problems • suggesting ways to help the situation • proposing a possible meeting You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Neighbours,

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You are taking a holiday in a place recommended by your local travel agent, and you are having a wonderful time.you promised to write to himand let him know what you think of his suggestion . Write a letter to your travel agent as promised , and let him know what you have been doing and what you are going to do before the end of your holiday. Explain why you think he made the right choice for you.

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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.

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You carried out an emergency maintenance on a key system and this resulted in an issue with the system Write a letter to the head of your data team. In your letter: - Provide an update on what happened - Explain what you're going to do about it - Say what you would like to him to do

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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 Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir or Madam,

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 You are moving home. Write a letter to your neighbours to say goodbye and to thanks them for their help during your stay.

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You are due to move into a rented apartment next month but you will not be able to because you have some problems. Write a letter to the landlord. In your letter: – explain your situation – describe your problems – tell him/her when you think you can move in

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You have bought an electronic equipment and within 2 days , problem started occuring. Write a letter to the Shopkeeper about your dissatisfaction with the product & services. Ask him to find proper solution for the problem.

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Dear Sir, I am writting this letter to inform you regarding project related course. i am Aiden. i am taking diploma in your college in heath care aide. i need to finish my course last to full fill my requirement. Moreover, i am not able to finish my course at time because of right hand injury. So this the reason i was unable to inform you at time. Also, i have physician reference letter regarding this mishappening and taking bed rest. Please give me 2-4 days more to complete my course. Because now am able to write and complete my work as early as possible. i am almost at the end of project, so i just need a time for final completion and wrting a bibliography. Hope you understad this circumstance and give me some extra time. Thank you Your sincerely, Aiden

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

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You live in a student apartment and your neighbor, a student from another country, is moving out. You have enjoyed living next to them and have learned a lot about their culture. Write a letter to your neighbor. In your letter: Express your sadness that they are leaving. Mention a specific positive memory or experience you shared. Suggest a way to keep in touch and wish them well for the future. You should You do not need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear [Name of Neighbor],

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Your friend was supposed to visit you soon, but due to some personal problems you can’t meet him / her on the specified date. Write a letter to him or her explaining the situation. In your letter, you have to: – Apologise to your friend. – Explain why it’s not possible to meet now. – Suggest an alternative date for the meeting.

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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. Begin your letter as follows: Dear …………….,

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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

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You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. 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. You do NOT need to write any address. You should write at least 150 words.

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Mrs Barret, 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 Barret. in your letter Suggest how you could help her in her home Say why you would like to do this Job Explain when you will and will not be available

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. You have been accepted by a university in Canada. Before moving to Canada, you want to gather some information from International Officer. Write to him about your needs. In your letter • introduce yourself • inquire about accommodation options • seek information on Student Discount Card

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You are planning a two-week vacation, and need someone to take care of your house while you are away. Write a letter to your neigbour. In your letter: tell your neighbour that you are going away ask your neighbour to take care of your house for you explain what task you would like your neighbour to do

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Mrs Barret, 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 Write at least 150 wrods. You do not need to write any addresses.

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You are planning a week long vacation, and you need someone to take care of your house while you are away. Write a letter to your neighbour. In your letter, - tell your neighbour that you are going away - ask your neighbour to take care of your house for you - explain what tasks you would like your neighbour to do.

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You wish to get enrolled in a course at an Australian college. You have already written a letter to the college asking for information, but you haven’t received a reply yet. Write a letter to the college explaining your concern because the course will start in less than two months. You need to know if you can still get enrolled, you also request more information about the course, including the cost.

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You play a team sport with some friends. Last week a member of the team had an accident and was not able to play with you at the weekend. You decide to write to him/her in the hospital, telling him/her about the match. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter,     •    tell him/her which team won     •    say how you felt about the match     •    ask how he/she is doing You should You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear ……………….,

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Write a letter to the college director requesting to change your course. You should include details about: - what course are you doing now - why you are not satisfied with that course -what course you would like to change to.

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You have received a job offer from a country where lives one of your childhood friend. Write a letter to him: • Tell about this happy event in your life; • Ask him for help finding accommodation; • Ask him to advise the best ways to get prepared for the new life in that country Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear ....,

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Write a letter to your boss apologising for the recent meeting you missed at work. 1. Apologise for missing the meeting 2. Explain what happened 3. Say what you will do to compensate

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Your English teacher has found a new penfriend. Write a letter to your penfriend and introduce yourself. Tell them what you do in your free time.

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You are going away from home for one week and you need to ask your neighbor to look after you house. Write a letter describe: •Why you want to go away •What you want your neighbor to look after •If there are any problems, then give instructions

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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 would you like to work •Describe how your part-time studies would benefit your employer

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You have been living in a rental apartment for the past year. Recently a new neighbour moved in and has been making a lot of noise, which disturbs you. Write a letter to the landlord. In your letter:  Explain the situation  Describe why it bothers you  Suggest a solution

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Write a letter to your boss. In your letter: · Describe the invitation you received and why it is important to you · Explain why the conference would be beneficial for you and the company · Ask for the company for time off to attend and to cover some of the travel costs Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Mr. Powell,

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You are renting an apartment. Write a letter to your landlord regarding a noise problem from your neighbors. Include the following in your letter: – What is the problem? – What have you done about it? – What would you like the landlord to do?

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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 You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Mr. Smith,

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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

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You have had a problem with your next-door neighbor. You have not been able to speak to your neighbor about this. Write a letter to this neighbor. In your letter: • Explain the problem • Suggest a solution • Say what action you will take if the situation does not improve Begin as follows: Dear ... ,

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Your friend was supposed to visit you soon, but due to some personal problems you can’t meet him / her on the specified date. Write a letter to him or her explaining the situation. In your letter, you have to: – Apologise to your friend. – Explain why it’s not possible to meet now. – Suggest an alternative date for the meeting.

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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 have rented an apaprtment for 5 years. You have decided to move out. Write a letter to your landlord. . Describe who you are and where you live. . Explain why you have decided to move out. . Suggest what you want the landlord to do.

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You recently completed a course and youu borrowed a book from your teacher which you couldn't return in time. You would like to return the book now. Write a letter to your teacher and say: What book it was. How helpful wa the book? Explain why you couldn't return it in time.

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You would like to participate in a work-related seminar in another country. Write a letter to the person in charge of the seminar and ask for detailed information regarding the dates, program, accommodation and cost.

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You have been working with your company for two years and are interested in a promotion. Write a letter to your direct boss. In your letter: Explain your varied achievements over the past two years Express your interest in growing with the company Ask for a meeting to discuss a potential promotion Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Mr. Phillips,

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you are studying and doing a part time job . A full time position recently opened in the company and your manager is asking you to quite your studies and start working full time. write a letter to him and say what is your decision? why did you make the decision? suggest a solution that will suit both you and the company.

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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

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Mrs Barrett, an English-speaking woman who lives in yourtown, 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 availabl

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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 are having a graduation party next Saturday night. You have invited 50 people to celebrate at an outdoor barbecue evening, which may continue into late into the night. Write a letter to your elderly neighbour. In your letter:  explain what will be happening  offer your apologies in advance  invite her to join the celebration

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You have decided to resign from your work in order try a new field. Write a letter to your boss In your letter • Tell your boss of your decision and explain why you are leaving • Explain what you have learnt from your current job and how you feel about leaving • Ask for a letter of reference

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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 asking for an extension on your assignment. In the letter, explain that you are a student in the mathematics class explain that you have been sick ask for an extension Write at least 150 words.  You do NOT need to write any addresses

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Write a letter of application to mrs hopkins the oganizer of the trip,telling her: -why would you like to go on the trip -what skills do you have -what previous experience

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You are going to attend a training course at a college in another country. You need somewhere to live while you are there. Write a letter to the College Accommodation Officer. In your letter: • Explain your situation • Describe the accommodation you require • Say when and how long you will need the accommodation

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You have been living in a rental apartment for the past year. Recently, a new neighbour Mr.Jackson moved in who has loud parties several times a week. You have spoken to Mr.Jackson but are not very close friends Write a letter to Mr.Jackson. In your letter: · Explain the situation · Describe why it bothers you · Suggest a solution

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You recently moved to a new neighborhood and want to introduce yourself to your neighbor. Write a letter to your neighbor. In your letter: Explain who you are and why you are writing. Describe your family and interests. Offer to meet them in person to get acquainted.

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GENERAL TRAINING ONLY You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. You and your classmate just received a poor grade on a major school project. One reason for your grade was that your classmate’s family member got very ill. Your classmate was distracted and didn’t contribute as much as was expected. Write a letter to your professor. In your letter - Explain why you had to do most of the work - Describe how the illness of your partner’s family member affected the project - Say what you hope your professor will do Write at least 150 words You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Professor Miller,

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Your landlord is asking to increase the rent. Write a letter to him. In your letter, you should tell: why you think the rent shouldn’t be increased what you will do if it is increased

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You were doing a short course at another country. All of a sudden, you had to leave the course and fly back to your home country. Write a letter to your teacher, and in your letter – express your gratitude – explain why you had to leave – explain what part of the course you enjoyed the most

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Your friend wants to send her/his children to your house for the weekend, Write a letter to him/her and say

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you recently went to a program and thought one of the singer was very good. you want to tell him how you feel. Write a letter to the singer. In your letter say how you feel about his performance give details of your musical activities explain how you would like him to help you with your musical activities

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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,

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You have just read about a computer course that really interests you, but it is only for people who have completed an elementary course. Write a letter to the college enrolment officer. In your letter explain why you are writing describe your circumstances ask if a special exception can be made for you so you can enrol in the course You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear

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B1.Write a letter to your uncle informing him about your improvement of performance in Annual Examination

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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 You should write at least 150 words.Mecky

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Your colleague found another job and invited you to his/her farewell party. Unfortunately, you are unable to attend it. Write a letter to him/her and say – Why can’t you attend the party? – Why did you enjoy working with him/her? – Offer him/her to meet some other time.

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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 teacher. in your letter introduce yourself. explain why you have not handed in the project yet. request more time to do it.

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You would like to participate in a work-related seminar in another country. Write a letter to the person in charge of the seminar and ask for detailed information regarding the dates, program, accommodation and cost. You do NOT need to write any address.

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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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A neighbour has damaged your car while parking his/her vehicle in the lane in front of your house. Write a letter to your neighbor. In your letter: * explain why you are writing * describe the damage to your car and express your feelings about it * recommend what steps he/she should take to resolve the situation.

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One of your pen pals will shortly be visiting your city. For some reasons, you can not manage to meet him at the airport on time. Write a letter asking him to wait for you at the airport and tell him how to identify you.

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You and your family are living in rented accommodation in an English speaking country. You are not satisfied with the condition of some of the furniture. Write a letter to your landlord. In your letter introduce yourself explain what is wrong with the furniture say what action you would like the landlord to take You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear .................,

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You have a spare room in your apartment that you would like to rent out to a student. Write a letter to the Student Accommodation Officer of local college. In your letter, you should tell: - where your apartment is located - when the room will be available - what your requirements for a student to stay there are Begin your letter as follow: Dear…,

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You are a student at an English language school in Brighton and are living in private accommodation with other flatmates. 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 and explain how you feel propose a solution and risk the landlord to take action

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Your neighbour keeps his/her pet outside in the garden and this is causing some inconvenience for you and your family. Write a letter to your neighbour. In your letter: say what the problem is explain how it is affecting you and your family suggest a possible solution

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You are a current student of Loren Brusque University, studying Business Administration. You want to apply for the post of Quality Assurance Manager you have recently seen on the university's notice board. Write a letter to Mr. Walker, and ▪️Give your reason for writing ▪️Tell about your education ▪️Describe your work experience and explain why you would be suitable for the job.

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You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. You are a current student of Loren Brusque University, studying Business Administration. You want to apply for the post of Quality Assurance Manager you have recently seen on the university's notice board. Write a letter to Mr. Walker, and •Give your reason for writing • Tell about your education • Describe your work experience and explain why you would be suitable for the job. Write at least 150 words.

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You are currently taking a course at a college but you will need to have a week off during this course.  Write a letter to the college Principal.  In the letter Give details of your course   Explain why you need a week off   Say what you want the Principal to do

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You are currently doing a diploma course at a college, but you need to take a week off during this course. Write a letter to the college Principal. In your letter give details of your course explain why you need a week off say what you want the Principal to do

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You have seen an advertisment 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 you 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

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You hind that your study load is too heavy and you would like to withdraw from two courses. Write a letter to your college teacher explaining why you need to withdraw from two courses. Ask if it is possible to obtain a refund. You should write at least 150 words.

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