IELTS Writing Correction Service
Writing Samples
Band 8

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

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Dear John Smith, I am writing
this
Linking Words
 letter to request you to extend my joining date which is a week later 23rd of March because I am leaving Canada
due to
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 some emergency occurring at my home back India. I already booked a flight for the 20th of March. The reason behind
this
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 is my grandmother was admitted to the hospital. She is 85 years old and she is suffering from a heart attack. Doctors already mentioned that her life is at risk.
Similarly
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, I am only her grandson and we have been separated since September 2021. She has an urge to meet me in her critical condition which is a situation I can not avoid. I am planning to stay two weeks in India. My return ticket is on 31st of March.
Therefore
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, I am able to join the company on the 1st of April. I look forward to hearing from you. Yours faithfully, Harpreet Kaur.

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Task Completion
In terms of task response, make sure you clearly address all parts of the task. While you've explained the situation and described your problems, you could further clarify your intentions by expressing regret for the inconvenience and reiterating your enthusiasm for starting the new role. This strengthens the completeness of your response.
Coherence and Cohesion
For coherence and cohesion, structuring your letter into clear paragraphs for each point you make is essential. You've done well, but consider starting a new paragraph for introducing your grandmother's situation and another for stating when you can start. Using a range of linking words (e.g., Furthermore, In addition, Therefore) could also enhance your letter's flow.
Formality
Finally, while you've used a polite and formal tone suitable for a new employer, maintaining consistency in formality throughout the letter is key. Avoid overly casual phrases or abbreviations that might undermine the professional tone of your letter.
Topic Vocabulary:
  • unforeseen circumstances
  • apologies
  • commencement date
  • postpone
  • urgent matters
  • documentation
  • commitment
  • flexibility
  • adjustments
  • reassurance
  • eager to contribute
  • rectify the situation
  • feasible start date
  • collaboration
  • understanding
  • mitigate
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