In this tutorial, ex-examiner Robert reviews an informal letter in IELTS General Task 1.

Here’s what you will learn:

4 things you must do after reading your Task 1 Question

Paragraph-by-paragraph review of the Task 1 Letter

How an IELTS examiner would grade this letter

How many words should you write in IELTS Task 1 Letter

How to use contractions correctly in IELTS Task 1

Sample IELTS Task 1 Question

When you look at IELTS General Training Writing Task 1 questions, the first thing you notice is how clear the instructions are. They describe a situation and tell you what direction your letter must take. 

Your friend works as a fitness instructor in a gym. You would like to receive his/her advice.

Write a letter to your friend. In your letter you should:

– describe your exercise programme

– explain what your goals are

– ask for advice on how you can improve your fitness

Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses.

The three bullet points clearly tell you what to include. They ask you to describe, explain and seek advice and we also have a clear idea of how formal your letter should be. This example is informal. Others might be formal or semi-formal. 

The level of formality influences the way we write in every way: the grammar, the vocabulary, the greeting and the ending. 

4 things you must do after reading your Task 1 Question

Remember that each paragraph must have a definite purpose. 

Think about the connection between these purposes and the three bullet points that you have to write about in the letter

Make sure your letter has a good opening and ending. 

Think about the vocabulary and maybe the grammar too. This is a letter to a friend asking for advice. Ask yourself which words, expressions and grammar show that this is written in an informal style

Paragraph-by-paragraph review of the Task 1 Letter

Paragraph 1 

Dear Mark, 

How are you? I’m sorry I haven’t been in touch but things here have been busy. 

Comments

Paragraph 1 opens with a classic greeting and a sentence that links the writer to the recipient. 

Paragraph 2

I guess you’re working hard as usual in the gym. In fact, that’s partly why I’m writing. With this new job, I’ve become so lazy. I’m hardly doing any exercise at all apart from walking to work sometimes and doing some stretching exercises and work with weights at home. Well, on Sundays I go jogging in the park but that’s about it! 

Comments

Paragraph 2 outlines the reasons why he is writing. He introduces the topic of exercise routines and describes what he is currently doing to keep fit. 

Paragraph 3

Actually, what worries me is that everyone in the company takes part in an annual half-marathon event for charity but, honestly, I really need to get into shape for it. Luckily, it’s next spring so I have a few months to prepare. 

Comments

Paragraph 3 explains the real motive for his desire to get into shape. 

Paragraph 4

 I’d really appreciate your thoughts on what to do. If I joined the local gym and started a serious workout programme, would that be the best idea? I know I need to strengthen my leg muscles so I could buy a running machine. And do you think riding a bike is a good idea?

Comments

Paragraph 4 asks for specific advice from his friend on what to do. 

Paragraph 5

I can’t wait to hear your advice and don’t forget that open invitation to come for the weekend. It would be great to see you.

Take care, 

Rob. 

Comments