I am posting this to help simplify one of the General module task 1 tests- letter writing. Many candidates do not understand why they’re not doing well in this task but may be unaware of what they are doing wrong
I hope this helps a lot and creates solid confidence in everyone who is preparing for this test and reads this article.
The IELTS test is done to check or assess how much you can communicate in the English language for the purpose of your professional or academic quests.
The IELTS General Test task 1 is letter writing and this letter is usually to a person, an organization, a company or an institution.
So, it can be a formal letter, informal or semi-formal letter writing. Task 2 is an essay. You have 20 minutes to write your letter which is the task 1 and, 40 minutes for the task 2 which is an essay.
Each of the IELTS tests has a format and in each test, there are basic things that are required from the candidate, without which it is seen as not having achieved a certain acceptable score.
It is also why some people who actually may be seen as good in the English language could fail to score well in the test
Today we want to talk about letter writing. Letter writing seems like a very simple topic and it might be for many people but, in the IELTS, it needs to be done as prescribed
In all the letters, the words or phrases you use matter a lot
FORMAL LETTERS
What makes a letter formal? How do you know if a letter is formal?
Below are the features that separate a formal letter from an informal or semi-formal letter.
DEFINITION:
A formal letter is written to someone you do not know. It is written when you need to write to a company or organization where you do not know the person to whom you are addressing the letter. It can be to request and information from a company, complaining to an institution/organization, applying for a job, making a recommendation or suggestion.
STRUCTURE OF A FORMAL LETTER
- Greetings/Opening/title
A formal letter begins with Dear Sir or Dear Madam,.
- Purpose/Reason For Writing
Immediately you are done with the above, simply say WHY you are writing the letter-your purpose for writing. You must never begin a formal letter by asking about the person family or their health.
First paragraph: Your first reason with the most important details (usually the main reason for writing). Begin this way:
- I am writing to inform you that…
- I am writing to express my displeasure with…
- I am writing this letter with regard to…
- I am writing to bring to your attention…
- I am writing to inquire about…
Then say what you are writing them.
Second paragraph: Your second reason with most important details
Third paragraph: Your third reason with most important details
There may also be the fourth paragraph depending on the volume of the purpose.
I said most important just to remind you that in a formal letter, there is no room for trivial issues. It is expected that anything you want to talk about must be serious, businesslike or professional.
All the 3 or 4 paragraphs above are the BODY of your letter and should be used to discuss your reasons for writing, in full details according to the intention of the letter. After saying what you want to say, it is time to close your letter.
Closing line:
- I look forward to hearing from you
- I thank you for your consideration.
- I look forward to receiving your response.
Sign out: Yours faithfully,
Last line: Your full name
SUMMARY OF THE TIPS TO SCORE HIGH IN YOUR LETTER WRITING
- Follow the structure of each particular letter. Do not assume
- Do not use abbreviations and contractions in formal letters
- Do not use clichés
- Do not use exclamation marks
- Do not use idiomatic expressions
- Use simple sentences. Avoid complex or long sentences. Simply make your intention very clear
- Avoid the use of imperative mood (commanding tone or voice)
- Avoid idiomatic expressions or slangs
- Use passive voice.
Exercise:
You bought a ticket to travel with a transport company for an important occasion in your town. The trip was canceled and a new time assigned to you which certainly affected your schedule. Write a letter to the company’s manager. In your letter:
- explain what happened
- say what you want them to do for you
- suggest how such incidents could be avoided in future
Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir / Madam
You should write at least 150 words.
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
Write your response in the comments section or post it on our Facebook page
WHAT NOW?
1. Do you want to be added to our FREE Online study group? CLICK HERE
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3. You can also join our next 5 DAYS IELTS READING COURSE to discover how to answer every type of Reading questions. To join CLICK HERE
4. We can help you assess your IELTS Essays, correct you and give you feedback on how you are doing. CLICK HERE
5. To join the next 9 Days Task 2 Essay Writing Course, CLICK HERE
6. Want to talk to me directly CLICK HERE
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