General Training Model Answer – IELTS (Task 1)

A friend recently invited you to a special party. You intended to go but at the last minute you were unable to attend.

Write a letter to your friend. In your letter
Apologise for not going to the party
Explain what prevented you from going
Suggest a way of making up for this

Dear Isabel,

I’m really sorry for not coming to your party. I know this was a special occasion for you to celebrate your graduation and I wanted to be there. I had every intention of coming but unfortunately while I was getting ready to come, I had a huge argument with my boyfriend.

I don’t want to get into the details of the argument but you know that my relationship has been shaky recently. We exchanged some nasty words and I was too upset to come after that. I locked myself in the bathroom and cried the whole night.

I feel sad that I let you down and I hope you will let me make it up to you. If you are free on Saturday night, I would like to take you out for dinner to that Mexican restaurant that you like. We can go clubbing after that.

Love,
Laura
Question taken from New Insights into IELTS Student's Book p.118

General Training Model Answer – IELTS (Task 1)

You recently stayed in a hotel in another city. When you got home you discovered that you had left something of value in the room.
Describe the item that you left behind and say where you left it
Ask the hotel to arrange to send it to you
Suggest a way to pay for the postage

Dear Sir or Madam,

I was a guest at your hotel from the 14th to the 18th of November, staying in room 812. When I returned home I discovered that I had forgotten my watch in the bathroom.

It’s an Omega watch with a brown leather strap. There are no numbers on the face of the watch but there is a personal inscription at the back. When I went to wash my face, I removed it and placed in on the sink. At that moment my mobile rang and I was distracted.

The watch is expensive and a gift from my husband so I would like you to send it to me by courier to the address provided at the top of the letter. This will ensure that I receive it early and safely. With respect to paying for the delivery, you may inform the courier company that I will pay cash on delivery.

Yours faithfully,
Gina Davis
Question taken from New Insights into IELTS Student's Book p.118

General Training Model Answer – IELTS (Task 1)

Two days ago you had a meal at a well-known restaurant. Unfortunately, you were ill after the meal.

Write a letter to the restaurant. In your letter
Describe what you ate
Say how you feel about the situation
Tell them what they can do about it

Dear Mr. Lui,

I have just returned from hospital where I spent four unpleasant days on the drip because of food poisoning I believe is the result of eating unfit food at your restaurant.

You may recall the engagement party that was held there last week and the lovely dishes on offer. I distinctly remember trying the fried silk worm cocoons for which your restaurant is famed. Immediately after eating a couple I began to feel ill and could eat nothing else.

Unfortunately this situation caused me great discomfort. I could not return to work and I also did not want to spoil such a wonderful occasion by telling other guests about my bad experience. Your restaurant is regarded as the best in the city and this incident could ruin your reputation.

I suggest you speak to your kitchen staff to find out why the food was likely to lead to food poisoning. I would also appreciate some assistance with paying the hospital bill.

Yours sincerely,

Dao Lee

Question taken from New Insights into IELTS Student's Book p.118

General Training Model Answer – IELTS (Task 1)

You are applying for a job and need a letter of reference from someone who knew you when you were at school.

Write a letter to one of your old teachers asking for a reference. In your letter
Say what job you have applied for
Explain why you want this job
Suggest what information the teacher should include

Dear Mrs. Lloyd,

You may remember me as an A-student in your IT class. I am writing to ask you for a reference letter which I need for a job I am applying for. I hope to be employed in the Data Processing Department of a large multinational market research company.

This job suits my academic qualification and offers many attractive perks. I believe that this experience in a highly demanding environment will prove beneficial in the long run. The Head Office of the company is located in my area so I will not waste any time travelling to work. The manager has informed me that I will be eligible for a promotion in a year if I meet all the requirements set out by the company. What is more, I am entitled to bonuses if I finish the tasks on time.

The reference letter will determine whether I obtain the position or not. I would appreciate it if you could include a character reference, a list of my class grades and an outline of what your course involved.

Yours sincerely,
Zafor Hasan

Question taken from New Insights into IELTS Student's Book p.112

General Training Model Answer – IELTS (Task 1)

Last week you went to a musical concert. You were very impressed with the performance.

Write a letter to a friend about the concert. In your letter
Say what the concert was and why you went
Describe the performance
Suggest why he/she should go to the concert

Dear Hanif,

You won’t believe who had a concert here last week! Ayub Bacchu the Rock star from Bangladesh. I had no idea that he was performing here. Tuhin surprised me by buying the tickets.

The stadium was full of fans singing along to his greatest hits. Ayub delivered an energetic concert with all the new tracks on his latest album. He also sang many of his old songs. Standing at centre stage with his electric guitar and his humble style made the audience wild. It was a truly great performance which lasted 3 hours. Even though he didn’t sing any songs in English and I couldn’t understand anything, the music and his talent kept me on the dance floor.

I know you appreciate rock music and you don’t miss any concerts that involve Bangladeshi artists so I think you should go to this remarkable one. I heard there are some shows next week. Due to popular demand Ayub has extended his stay here!

Love,
Sandy Wu
Question taken from New Insights into IELTS Workbook p.61

General Training Model Answer – IELTS (Task 1)

An English-speaking friend is coming to study at your college next year and has written asking for information and advice.

Write a letter to your friend. In your letter
Give advice about accommodation in the town
Describe the best thing about the college
Offer to show your friend around the college

Dear Hongmei,

I was so excited to find out that you are coming to study at Prince College next year. As I have been studying here for four years now, I will be happy to answer all your questions.

It is quite difficult to find accommodation in the town. You will have to stay with a host family and share the bathroom, kitchen and living room area. The average rent per week for this type of accommodation is Euro 100. This includes breakfast and dinner.

The college is fantastic. The teachers are enthusiastic and know their subject well. We have all the facilities a student needs such as a modern cafeteria, a big library, free internet, sports fields and student bars. The thing I enjoy most however is the diversity of students. The international students come from 100 different countries around the world. I have made so many friends already and my English has improved immensely.

As soon as you arrive I will arrange a day to show you around the college so you don’t feel lost. I can’t wait for you to get here. I’m sure this will be a great experience for you.

Love,

Sunyifei

Question taken from Objective Ielts Workbook p.45

General Training Model Answer – IELTS (Task 1)

You recently bought a large expensive item but when it was delivered to your home you found some problems with it.

Write a letter to the manager of the shop. In your letter
Give details of what you bought
Describe the problems with your item
Say what you want the shop to do

Dear Sir or Madam,

Last week I purchased a washing machine from your High Street branch which was delivered to my home and subsequently installed. The washing machine (model BS-251) has attractive features – low energy consumption, 15 kilo load, includes dryer function, special introductory price etc – which is why I chose it.

When I used the machine for the first time, it did not perform the rinse cycle. As a result when I opened the door to remove the clothes they were soaking wet. I also had to remove the excess water in the machine manually. In addition, even though I had a colour load one of my pink sweaters became purple.

I would like to keep the washing machine as I believe it will be useful once it functions well. Therefore, I would like you send one of your technicians to my home to fix the problem which I believe is technical.

Yours sincerely,

Carla Stanford

Question taken from Official IELTS Practice Materials p.53

General Training Model Answer – IELTS (Task 1)

There have been some problems with public transport in your area recently.

Write a letter to the manager of the public transport company. In your letter
Describe the problems
Explain how these problems are affecting the public
Suggest what changes could be made

Dear Sir or Madam,

I regularly use Bus 150 to the city centre and whereas in the past travelers were satisfied with the services provided we are now experiencing some problems.

Firstly, for some reason the bus does not keep to schedule. Many of the commuters need to be at work by 8 o’clock and because the bus arrives at the station late we are also twenty minutes late. Our supervisors sent out a memo saying they would not tolerate any more excuses. Secondly, the newly appointed bus driver smokes while he is driving. When we informed him that this was against public transport policy he was rude to us and refused to put out his cigarette. Many of the elderly passengers were disturbed with his attitude.

I suspect the delay is due to the road works in Pavilion Street so I suggest you inform the driver to use Ringo Street instead. Please also speak to the bus driver about his anti-social behaviour and give him a copy of the public transport policy to read.

Yours faithfully,

Derek Young

Question taken from Official IELTS Practice Materials p.50

General Training Model Answer – IELTS (Task 1)

You are unhappy about a plan to make your local airport bigger and increase the number of flights. You live near the airport.

Write a letter to your local newspaper. In your letter
Explain where you live
Describe the problem
Give reasons why you do not want this development

Dear Sir or Madam,

I read about the future plans of the local government to extend the airport in Queens to allow a greater number of flights. As I live less than 1km away from the airport, I was not happy when I found this out.

I have already experienced numerous problems in the past even when the airport was a smaller size. The airport was built after I had settled in the area so I had to double glaze all my windows to prevent the noise from coming through. This of course was expensive. Local residents suffer from breathing problems due to the pollution and we are unable to hang our clothes outside to dry as they become dirty. Our children are also unable to enjoy playing outside in the garden when the planes are flying low. All these problems will increase when the airport becomes bigger.

We have become accustomed to living in the area but I believe any further developments at the airport will have a negative impact on the way we live and therefore do not support it.

Yours faithfully,

Maria Gomez

Question taken from IELTS 3 Past Papers p.125

General Training Model Answer – IELTS (Task 1)

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 problem
Tell him/her when you think you can start

Dear Mrs. Parker,

As per our contract, I am due to begin working at your company on the 2nd of March. I regret to inform you that I will be unable to keep to this agreed date due to some unexpected personal issues.

My sister living in Vancouver is undergoing emergency surgery and as she is a single parent, I have been called over to tend to her four young children for the duration of her stay in hospital. The doctors have informed me, if all goes well she should be fully recovered in 2 weeks time.

Therefore, I would like to request an alteration of my starting date. I believe the 2nd of April is a realistic date to set if we take into account the travel and recovery time.

I do apologise for this unforeseen inconvenience and I hope we can agree to some sort of arrangement.

Yours sincerely,

Angelina Ford

Question taken from IELTS 3 Past Papers p.112

General Training Model Answer – IELTS (Task 1)

You want to sell some of your furniture. You think a friend of yours might like to buy it from you.

Write a letter to your friend. In your letter
Explain why you are selling
Describe the furniture
Suggest a date when your friend can come and see the furniture

Dear Max,

I finally decided to study architecture in Rome and I’m leaving at the end of this month. As I’ll be in Italy for four years it is pointless for me to keep renting my apartment in London. All the furniture belongs to me so I need to sell it before I depart. To be honest, I could do with some extra money to pay for my expenses as well.

We have similar taste in designer furniture so I thought you might have the first choice in selecting some items to purchase. In particular, I think you would appreciate the black leather sofa in my living room. It was designed and handmade in the 1950s so it really is priceless. Another piece I believe you will want to add to your collection is my grandmother’s 1930s wooden rocking chair with a comfortable red velvet cushion to go with it.

You are welcome to come by this Saturday when you are not working to view this furniture. Naturally I will give you the best offer I can.

Take care,

Karen
Question taken from IELTS 4 Past Papers p. 129

General Training Model Answer – IELTS (Task 1)

You were hurt in a minor accident inside a supermarket, and you wish to complain to the supermarket.

Write a letter to the manager of the supermarket. In your letter
Say who you are
Give details about the accident
Suggest how the supermarket could prevent similar accidents

Dear Sir or Madam,

I am a regular customer at your branch in Grey High Street. In fact, I have the highest bonus points in your super save scheme and I have received many generous offers from there.

Despite the excellent service I receive from the supermarket, last week I had a small accident near the fridge which stocks the dairy products. The staff responsible for stocking the fridge did not mop the floor after they had finished and there was a tiny pool of water which I failed to notice. As a result I slipped when I was reaching for some milk and bruised my leg slightly.

Kindly inform your employees to wipe the floor next to the refrigerators to prevent this accident from occurring again or place a sign informing customers that the floor is wet so that they are careful when walking in that area. Even though I did not hurt myself badly, another customer might be subjected to greater injury on another occasion.

Yours faithfully,

Patricia Hall

Question taken from IELTS 4 Past Papers p.115

General Training Model Answer – IELTS (Task 1)

You have a full-time job and are also doing a part-time evening course. You now find that you cannot continue the course.

Write a letter to the course tutor. In your letter
Describe the situation
Explain why you cannot continue at this time
Say what action you would like to take

Dear Mr. Hoff,

You may have noticed that I have been missing some of your evening classes recently. Even though I enjoy your lesson immensely I work full time at a law firm and as I sometimes work late or because of sheer exhaustion I often cannot attend.

The senior partner in the law firm informed me that I have a certain future there and that I should channel all my energy into work. As I am unable to dedicate the time to my studies I believe it is unwise for me to continue with this course in plumbing.

I would like to focus on my professional career at the moment, so I have decided to put my hobby on hold for the moment. When I have received the promotion I deserve and I have some free time for myself I would like to return to your class and continue where I left off with Drain Management.

Regards,

Jane Sink

Question taken from IELTS 5 Past papers p.127

General Training Model Answer – IELTS (Task 1)

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 actions you will take

Dear neighbours,

I have received your collective letter of complaint about the noise coming from my flat and I would like to provide you with an explanation for this temporary upset.

As you are aware my father-in-law is staying with us for a few days. He has a severe problem with snoring and due to his old age he sleeps many hours throughout the day. As the walls in our block are not sound proof, Mr. Russel in Flat 101 is subjected to this irritating noise coming from the bedroom where my father-in-law is staying. I am truly sorry for this disturbance.

My father-in-law is being admitted to hospital in two days time for an operation to stop the snoring. Following the operation, he will return to his own home. I can assure you that the silence will return to our peaceful block soon.

Your kind consideration in this matter will be appreciated.

Regards,

Rita Kipling

Question taken from IELTS 5 Past Papers p.113

General Training Model Answer – IELTS (Task 1)

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

Dear Mr. Yoshi,

We haven’t been formally introduced but I am your neighbour, the one living directly opposite you in Flat 982. I moved in last week but due to the fact that you are at work all day I wasn’t able to meet you.

I’m planning to have a party this Saturday in order for my friends to view my new flat. I expect there will be some noise as all the guests are in their early 20s and we are inviting a well-known DJ to play the music. We are heavily into rock music so I anticipate some energetic singing, jumping and head banging. There will also be food and alcoholic drinks for everyone.

Our other neighbours informed me that you are young and never miss out on a party. So I would love to have you join us. All the apartment block has been invited and this will be a great opportunity for us to bond and get to know each other.

I hope to see you on Saturday,

Your neighbour,

Thorn Maiden

Question taken from IELTS 6 Past Papers p.126

General Training Model Answer – IELTS (Task 1)

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 the landlord. In your letter
Introduce yourself
Explain what is wrong with the furniture
Say what action you would like the landlord to take

Dear Mr. Patel,

I am one of the tenants renting fully-furnished accommodation in Sunset House in Civil Street; flat 225 to be exact. I moved here six months ago and unfortunately the furniture in the apartment is extremely dangerous.

Firstly, the bed is uneven and this causes my wife to roll onto the floor while she is sleeping. As you can imagine this is quite disturbing and could lead to some serious injury. Then, the kitchen table collapsed as we were enjoying our Sunday lunch spilling all the dishes with our delicious food onto the floor. Our guests were shocked and we had to order take away. The incident last week, however, when the lampshade in the living room caught fire made this matter pressing.

We would appreciate it if you could replace these faulty items which are causing distress in our household. A simple bed, kitchen table and hazard free lamp would be useful.

Awaiting your response,

Yours faithfully,

Mr. Costas Georgiou

Question taken from IELTS 6 Past Papers p.113

General Training Model Answer – IELTS (Task 1)

Last month you had a holiday overseas where you stayed with some friends. They have just sent you some photos of your holiday.

Write a letter to your friend. In your letter
Thank them for the photos and for the holiday
Explain why you didn’t write earlier
Invite them to come and stay with you

Dear Sarah and Craig,

I have just received the envelope with our holiday photos. I really enjoyed looking at them and in particular the ones of us in central London. I couldn’t have wished for a better break. Thank you for your hospitality and taking the time to show me around the main attractions of the city.

I realize that I should have been in contact with you earlier but I was so busy on my return. I went straight into work from the airport to deal with a crisis there. Unfortunately the fact that I was also moving house the same week didn’t help. Things have finally settled down so I decided to drop you a line.

I can’t wait for you to visit me in Beijing. You’ll be amazed by all our wonderful sights and culture. My new house is located in the old part of the city and I’d love to welcome you there. I have a spare bedroom with antique furniture which I’m sure you’ll appreciate.

Please let me know when you can come and I’ll make all the arrangements.

Love,

Lee

Question taken from IELTS 7 Past Papers p.128

General Training Model Answer – IELTS (Task 1)

You have recently started work in a new company.

Write a letter to an English-speaking friend. In your letter

Explain why you changed jobs
Describe your new job
Tell him/her your other news

Dear Emma,

Do you remember the last time we spoke and I told you that I had been invited for a second interview at Creative Solutions? Well, they were really impressed with my portfolio so they hired me. The package was too good to refuse. I will be getting double the salary, plus commission. The working hours are also better than my previous job. What is more, the two hour journey to my previous job was really draining so it’s great that I can now walk to the office.

As I’ve been given the title of Creative Director, it is my responsibility to come up with new concepts for our clients’ advertising campaigns. I have a team of five members to manage and the accounts of large clients. I will be in charge from the initial idea all the way through to the final product.

I have also moved in with David! His apartment is much better than the place I was renting and I was allowed to take my cat with me. I’ve also lost 2 kilos as David cooks healthy meals daily and after dinner we walk around the neighbourhood for an hour.

I’m waiting to hear your news.

Love,

Rachel

Question taken from IELTS 7 Practice Tests p.116