IELTS Writing Correction Service / Writing Samples / Band 8.5 Your friend has been offered a place on course at the university where you studied. He/She would like your advice about finding a place to live. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter - describe where you lived when you were a student at the university - recommend the best way for him/her to look for accommodation - warn him/her of mistakes students make when choosing

Hello, my dear Tom. First of all, let me, please, express to you my happiness at the fact that you have accepted the offer, and will start your student life at Richmond University. I'm writing
this
letter with the purpose of advising you on the best accommodation and warning you of the common student's mistakes. I lived on campus during the period of my study. There are 3 types of accommodation.
First,
the 2-bedroom dormitories. In my humble opinion - it's the best option.
Second,
the 3-bedroom apartment, and,
finally
, 4-bedroom flats. As I already said, the 2-bedroom apartment is the only one worth considering. If you do not have enough time to catch it, you have to find accommodation in the city. You have to know, that it's a very undeveloped system of public transportation. So, either you will have to rent a car, or you will need to find a flat near the university. I have a desperate plea - don't agree to any big flat on campus, it's mostly for first-year students, and they are very noisy all day and night. I hope
this
letter will help you. If you have any other questions - don't hesitate to contact me. Best regards, sincerely yours. Anastassia.
Submitted by anastasia on

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task achievement
Your letter provides a complete response to the prompt, offering your friend advice on accommodation and warning about common mistakes. To enhance task response, you may consider adding more details about each type of accommodation to give a clearer picture of the options.
coherence cohesion
The logical structure of your letter is quite good, with a clear progression from describing your own experience to offering advice. To improve cohesion and coherence, ensure that each paragraph is fully developed with sufficient details and transitions between ideas.
task achievement
You used a suitable and friendly tone throughout the letter, which is appropriate for the task.
coherence cohesion
The greeting and closing are appropriate and add a personal touch to the letter.
Topic Vocabulary:
  • shared apartment
  • off campus
  • convenient
  • moderately priced
  • university accommodation office
  • student forums
  • social media groups
  • available rooms
  • apartments
  • committing
  • long-term leases
  • location's convenience
  • daily commute
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