In the first task, candidates are required to address a specified issue by composing a letter to either request information or explain a situation. The recommended time allocation for Task 1 is around 20 minutes, during which candidates should produce a letter of at least 150 words. Depending on the task, candidates are evaluated on their capacity to:
– Engage in personal correspondence
– Elicit and provide general factual information
– Express needs, wants, likes, and dislikes
– Express opinions (views, complaints, etc.)
The general writing task 1 examination assesses the test taker’s writing skills in responding to a complaint, requesting information, or explaining a particular situation in a letter. IELTS Task 1 contributes 33% to your total writing mark.
Useful general Task 1 Phrases to make a complaint:
For lodging complaints, consider using phrases like “I want you to know that” or “I am writing to express my dissatisfaction with.”
IELTS Task 1 formal vocabulary to make an application:
In formal applications, phrases such as “I am writing in relation to the advertised position of…” or “Please find my CV attached…” are appropriate.
IELTS Writing Task 1 Vocabulary to invite or reply to an invite:
To respond to invitations, phrases like “I am writing you in response to your invitation” or “Please do let me know if you can make it” can be utilized.
IELTS Writing Task 1 Vocabulary to advise:
When giving advice, expressions such as “I strongly advise you to/not to” or “It would/might be a good idea to” can be employed.
IELTS General Writing Task 1 Vocabulary to make a request:
For making requests, use phrases like “Could you please/possibly” or “Would it be possible to.” In informal letters, greetings like “Hello/Hi there” and phrases like “I was wondering if you could help me” or “I hope you’re well” are suitable.
IELTS General Writing Task 1 Vocabulary for informal letters:
Hello / Hi name / Hi there, I was wondering if you could help me. /I’m sorry to tell you that /I should let you know that/ I hope you’re well/ It’s been ages since I’ve heard from you/ Lots of love/ Thanks very much
Make sure you practice different letter types – informal and formal and be clear about the purpose of your letter (an apology, responding to an invitation, asking for information). Use the correct phrases and set your letter out following a model.
Look at examples. Then make a list of different types of letters (informal and formal) with appropriate vocabulary for each one. Try to memorize fixed expressions such as I would really appreciate your help with this.
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