IELTS Writing GT task 1 November 2026 Letters 
1\. Request the local council to repair a damaged pedestrian crossing near a school
Question
You have noticed that a pedestrian crossing near a local school has become damaged and unsafe. Write a letter to the local council. In your letter:
* Describe the condition of the crossing.
* Explain why it is dangerous for pedestrians.
* Request the council to arrange repairs as soon as possible.
Answer
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to bring to your attention the deteriorating condition of a pedestrian crossing situated near Greenfield Public School on Park Road. I believe this matter requires immediate attention from the relevant department.
Over the past few weeks, I have noticed that several white markings have almost disappeared, while the traffic signal is also functioning intermittently. In addition, the surface near the crossing has developed cracks, making it difficult for pedestrians to cross safely.
This situation is particularly concerning because hundreds of schoolchildren use this route every morning and afternoon. Many young students find it difficult to judge the speed of approaching vehicles, and the absence of clearly visible markings increases the likelihood of accidents. Elderly residents and parents accompanying their children are equally affected.
I would therefore appreciate it if the council could arrange an inspection and carry out the necessary repairs at the earliest opportunity. Repainting the crossing, repairing the damaged surface and checking the signal system would considerably improve public safety.
Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to a prompt response.
Yours faithfully,
Sam Curren
### 2\. Complain to an online retailer about a replacement item that arrived damaged
Question
You recently received a replacement item from an online retailer, but it was damaged when it arrived. Write a letter to the company. In your letter:
* Explain why the original item was replaced.
* Describe the damage to the replacement.
* State what action you expect the company to take.
Answer
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to express my dissatisfaction with the replacement product I received from your company earlier this week. Unfortunately, despite having already experienced a problem with my original purchase, the second item has also arrived in an unacceptable condition.
On 28 October, I purchased a wireless printer through your website. However, the device failed to connect to my computer, even after following the troubleshooting instructions provided in the user manual. After contacting your customer support team, I was assured that a replacement would be sent without any additional charge.
To my disappointment, the new printer arrived yesterday with a cracked control panel and a damaged paper tray. Furthermore, the outer packaging appeared to have been crushed during transportation. As a result, I have been unable to use the equipment, which has caused considerable inconvenience because I require it for my professional work.
I would appreciate it if you could arrange another replacement after checking the product carefully before dispatch. Alternatively, I would be willing to accept a full refund if a suitable replacement cannot be guaranteed. Please also arrange collection of the damaged device at no additional cost.
I look forward to your prompt resolution.
Yours faithfully,
Sam Curren
### 3\. Apply to volunteer at a community wildlife centre
Question
You have seen an advertisement inviting volunteers to work at a community wildlife centre. Write a letter to the centre. In your letter:
* Explain why you are interested in volunteering.
* Describe any relevant skills or experience you have.
* Mention when you would be available to help.
Answer
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to express my interest in joining your community wildlife centre as a volunteer. I recently came across your advertisement on the local community website and would be pleased to contribute to your conservation activities.
I have always been interested in animal welfare and environmental protection. In particular, I believe that local wildlife deserves greater attention, as urban development and pollution continue to threaten natural habitats. Volunteering at your centre would allow me to contribute towards a meaningful cause while gaining practical knowledge about wildlife conservation.
Although I do not have professional experience in animal care, I have participated in several neighbourhood cleanliness drives and tree-planting campaigns. I am comfortable working outdoors, communicating with members of the public and carrying out practical responsibilities. I am also willing to attend any training sessions required before beginning my duties.
Regarding my availability, I would be able to volunteer on Saturday mornings and Sunday afternoons. However, I could also make occasional weekday visits with sufficient notice. I would be particularly interested in assisting with animal feeding, habitat maintenance or educational activities for visitors.
I would be grateful if you could provide further information about the application procedure and any upcoming volunteer orientation sessions.
Yours faithfully,
Sam Curren
### 4\. Ask a public library to extend a loan because of an unexpected family responsibility
Question
You have borrowed several books from a public library, but an unexpected family responsibility has prevented you from returning them on time. Write a letter to the librarian. In your letter:
* Explain why you cannot return the books by the due date.
* Describe your current circumstances.
* Request an extension of the loan period.
Answer
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to request an extension of the loan period for three books that I recently borrowed from your library. The books are currently due to be returned on 12 November; however, an unexpected family responsibility has made it difficult for me to meet this deadline.
Last week, my father underwent an emergency medical procedure and requires assistance with his daily activities during his recovery. As the only family member currently available to look after him, I have had to rearrange my routine and spend most of my time at home. Consequently, I have been unable to visit the library as originally planned.
The books in question are related to business communication, personal development and financial management. I have already completed two of them and am currently reading the third. They have been extremely useful for my studies, and I would appreciate a little additional time to finish the remaining material.
I would therefore be grateful if you could extend the borrowing period by another two weeks, until 26 November. I would also appreciate it if any overdue charges could be waived, provided the extension is approved before the original return date.
Thank you for considering my request. I look forward to hearing from you.
Yours faithfully,
Sam Curren
### 5\. Write to a transport company about repeated cancellations on your bus route
Question
You regularly use a bus service to travel to work, but the service has been cancelled several times recently. Write a letter to the transport company. In your letter:
* Explain how frequently the cancellations have occurred.
* Describe how the situation has affected you.
* Suggest what the company should do to improve the service.
Answer
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to express my concern regarding the repeated cancellation of buses operating on Route 42 between Lakeside and the city centre. As a regular passenger, I have experienced considerable inconvenience because of the unreliable service over the past three weeks.
On several occasions, the scheduled 8:00 a.m. bus has either failed to arrive or been cancelled without prior notification. This has happened at least four times recently, leaving passengers waiting at the bus stop without any clear information about alternative arrangements.
The situation has seriously affected my daily routine, as I depend on this service to reach my workplace on time. On two occasions, I arrived late for important meetings, while on another day I had to pay for an expensive taxi to avoid missing an appointment. Other commuters, including students and elderly passengers, have also been inconvenienced.
I would strongly recommend that your company review the timetable and ensure that sufficient vehicles are available during peak hours. In addition, passengers should receive timely notifications through the official mobile application whenever a service is cancelled or delayed.
I hope the management will investigate this matter and take appropriate measures to restore a reliable transport service.
Yours faithfully,
Sam Curren
### 6\. Request a refund for a short course that was cancelled without notice
Question
You enrolled in a short course at a training institute, but the course was cancelled without prior notice. Write a letter to the institute. In your letter:
* Explain which course you enrolled in and when it was due to begin.
* Describe how the cancellation affected you.
* Request a refund of the course fee.
Answer
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to request a full refund for the digital marketing course for which I registered at your institute last month. I was informed that the programme had been cancelled only after I contacted your office to enquire about the starting arrangements.
I enrolled in the six-week course on 15 October and paid the complete fee of ₹12,000. According to the confirmation email, the classes were scheduled to commence on 5 November, with evening sessions held three times a week. However, I received no notification regarding any changes to the schedule or the cancellation.
This unexpected decision has caused considerable inconvenience. I had rearranged my working hours to attend the sessions and declined another training opportunity because I was committed to your programme. Furthermore, I specifically selected your institute because of its advertised practical curriculum and experienced instructors.
Under these circumstances, I would appreciate it if the entire amount could be returned to my original payment method. I would also request written confirmation of the refund and an indication of when I can expect to receive it.
I hope this matter can be resolved without further delay.
Yours faithfully,
Sam Curren
### 7\. Suggest improvements to a town’s public sports facilities to the council
Question
Your town council is planning to improve its public sports facilities. Write a letter to the council suggesting some improvements. In your letter:
* Describe the existing sports facilities.
* Explain what improvements are needed.
* Suggest how these changes would benefit local residents.
Answer
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to offer some suggestions regarding the improvement of public sports facilities in our town. As a resident who regularly uses the community recreation area, I believe that a few practical changes would make these facilities considerably more useful to people of different age groups.
At present, the town has a small outdoor football ground, two tennis courts and a jogging track. Although these facilities are appreciated by local residents, several areas have become poorly maintained. The tennis court surfaces are uneven, the lighting around the jogging track is inadequate, and there is a shortage of basic exercise equipment.
I would recommend resurfacing the existing courts, installing brighter energy-efficient lights and adding outdoor fitness stations. It would also be beneficial to develop a separate children's play area and provide covered seating for spectators. In addition, regular maintenance inspections would help ensure that the facilities remain safe and accessible.
These improvements would encourage more residents to participate in physical activities rather than spending their leisure time indoors. They would also provide young people with a safe environment to develop sporting skills and promote a stronger sense of community.
I hope the council will consider these recommendations when preparing its improvement plans.
Yours faithfully,
Sam Curren
### 8\. Explain to an employer why you need a change to your working hours
Question
You are currently working full-time, but you need to change your working hours because of a personal commitment. Write a letter to your employer. In your letter:
* Explain your current working arrangement.
* Describe why you need a change.
* Suggest an alternative working schedule.
Answer
Dear Ms Patel,
I hope you are doing well. I am writing to discuss a possible adjustment to my current working hours due to a change in my family circumstances.
At present, I work from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday to Friday, at the company's Chennai office. This arrangement has worked well for me over the past two years, and I have always made an effort to complete my responsibilities within the required deadlines.
However, my mother has recently started attending regular medical appointments in the afternoon, and I need to accompany her several times a week. Since other family members are unavailable during these hours, managing this responsibility alongside my existing schedule has become increasingly difficult.
I would therefore like to request permission to begin work at 7:30 a.m. and finish at 4:30 p.m. on weekdays. This adjustment would allow me to complete my full working hours while ensuring that my professional responsibilities are not affected. I would also remain available by email for any urgent matters after leaving the office.
I understand that changes to working arrangements require approval, and I would be happy to discuss a suitable trial period if necessary.
Thank you for considering my request. I look forward to your response.
Best regards,
Sam Curren
### 9\. Write to your landlord about water leaking from the ceiling after a storm
Question
You rent an apartment and have recently noticed water leaking from the ceiling after a heavy storm. Write a letter to your landlord. In your letter:
* Explain when the leakage started.
* Describe the damage caused by the water.
* Ask the landlord to arrange repairs.
Answer
Dear Mr Lewis,
I hope you are doing well. I am writing to let you know about a problem that has developed in the apartment following the heavy rainfall earlier this week.
The leakage started on Tuesday night, when water began dripping from the ceiling in the bedroom near the balcony. Initially, I assumed it was a minor issue caused by the storm, but the situation has gradually become worse. Whenever it rains, water seeps through the ceiling and collects near the bedroom window.
Unfortunately, this has already caused some damage to the apartment. A section of the ceiling paint has started peeling, and the wall has developed damp patches. I have also had to move my study table and electrical equipment to another room to prevent further damage. The persistent moisture is making the bedroom uncomfortable to use.
Could you please arrange for a maintenance professional to inspect the roof and identify the source of the leakage? I would appreciate it if the necessary repairs could be completed as soon as possible, preferably before the next spell of rain. Please let me know when someone would be available to visit.
I hope we can resolve this issue promptly.
Best regards,
Sam Curren
### 10\. Ask a former manager for an employment reference for a new position
Question
You have applied for a new job and the employer has asked you to provide a professional reference. Write a letter to your former manager. In your letter:
* Remind the manager when and where you worked together.
* Explain what the new position involves.
* Ask whether the manager would be willing to provide a reference.
Answer
Dear Mr Grant,
I hope you have been keeping well. It has been quite some time since we last spoke, and I hope everything is going smoothly at your end.
I am writing to ask whether you would be comfortable providing a professional reference for a position I have recently applied for. I worked under your supervision at Bright Solutions from 2021 to 2024 as a customer service executive. During that period, I gained valuable experience in handling client enquiries, resolving complaints and coordinating with different departments.
The position I am currently applying for is that of a customer relations supervisor at a larger organisation. The role involves managing a small team, maintaining client relationships and ensuring that customer concerns are addressed efficiently. Since you supervised my work directly and were familiar with my performance, I believe your recommendation would be particularly valuable.
If you are willing to act as a referee, I can forward the job description and the details of the recruitment manager. The company may contact you by email or telephone to ask about my previous responsibilities, communication skills and ability to work under pressure.
I completely understand if your current commitments make this difficult, but I would be grateful for your support.
Best regards,
Sam Curren
### 11\. Complain to a building manager about construction noise outside permitted hours
Question
You live in an apartment building where construction work is taking place nearby. The noise frequently continues outside the permitted hours. Write a letter to the building manager. In your letter:
* Explain when the construction noise usually occurs.
* Describe how it affects you and other residents.
* Suggest what action should be taken.
Answer
Dear Mr Wilson,
I hope you are doing well. I am writing to bring to your attention the ongoing disturbance caused by construction work taking place near our apartment building.
Although I understand that some level of noise is unavoidable during building projects, the situation has become increasingly difficult over the past two weeks. Workers have been operating heavy machinery as early as 6:00 a.m. and occasionally continuing until 10:00 p.m. These activities appear to be taking place outside the permitted working hours.
The constant drilling, hammering and movement of construction vehicles have seriously affected my daily routine. I work remotely and often attend important online meetings, which have become difficult because of the background noise. Several other residents have also complained about disturbed sleep, particularly families with young children and elderly occupants.
I would appreciate it if you could contact the construction company and remind them of the approved working schedule. It would also be helpful to display the permitted hours clearly and arrange regular inspections to ensure that the rules are being followed.
I hope the management will take this matter seriously and help restore a peaceful living environment.
Best regards,
Sam Curren
### 12\. Invite a neighbour to join a community clean-up event
Question
You are organising a community clean-up event in your neighbourhood. Write a letter to your neighbour inviting them to participate. In your letter:
* Explain why the event is being organised.
* Describe what activities will take place.
* Tell your neighbour how they can participate.
Answer
Dear Mrs Thompson,
I hope you and your family are doing well. I wanted to let you know about a community clean-up event that a few residents and I are organising next Sunday, and I thought you might be interested in joining us!
Over the past few months, our neighbourhood park and the surrounding streets have become increasingly untidy. There is litter near the walking paths, plastic waste around the children's playground and several overgrown areas that need attention. Since so many families use this park regularly, we felt it was time to do something rather than simply complain about the situation.
We are planning to meet near the main entrance at 8:00 a.m. Volunteers will collect rubbish, separate recyclable materials, clean the benches and remove unwanted weeds. We are also hoping to plant a few flowering shrubs near the entrance to make the area more attractive.
It would be great if you could join us! You do not need to bring anything special because we have arranged gloves, rubbish bags and basic cleaning equipment. Just wear comfortable clothes and bring a water bottle. If possible, you could also encourage a few other neighbours to participate.
Hope to see you there!
Best regards,
Sam Curren
### 13\. Thank a course tutor for support and explain how the course helped you
Question
You recently completed a course and received considerable support from your tutor. Write a letter to the tutor. In your letter:
* Thank the tutor for their support.
* Explain which aspects of the course you found useful.
* Describe how the course has benefited you.
Answer
Dear Ms Anderson,
I hope you are doing well. Now that I have completed the advanced communication course, I wanted to take a moment to thank you for all the guidance and encouragement you provided throughout the programme.
When I first joined the course, I was quite nervous because I had very little confidence in expressing my ideas during professional discussions. However, your teaching approach made the sessions comfortable and encouraged everyone to participate without worrying about making mistakes. I particularly appreciated the individual feedback you provided after each presentation.
The practical activities were probably the most useful part of the programme. The group discussions, mock interviews and presentation exercises helped me understand how to organise my thoughts and communicate more effectively. I also found your suggestions on improving professional vocabulary extremely valuable.
Since completing the course, I have noticed a considerable improvement in my confidence. Recently, I was able to deliver a presentation at work without feeling overwhelmed, something I would have struggled with before. I have also started contributing more actively during team meetings.
Thank you once again for your patience and constant support. Your guidance has made a genuine difference to my professional development.
Best regards,
Sam Curren
### 14\. Ask a sports club organiser to change your membership session because of a timetable conflict
Question
You are a member of a local sports club, but your current training session conflicts with another commitment. Write a letter to the club organiser. In your letter:
* Explain which session you currently attend.
* Describe the timetable conflict.
* Request a change to another suitable session.
Answer
Dear Mr Harris,
I hope you are doing well. I am writing to request a change to my current membership session at the Riverside Sports Club due to a recent change in my weekly schedule.
I have been attending the evening badminton sessions on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. for the past three months. I have thoroughly enjoyed the training programme, particularly the coaching sessions and opportunities to practise with other members.
Unfortunately, my workplace has recently introduced a compulsory professional development programme that takes place every Tuesday and Thursday evening. As attendance is mandatory, I will no longer be able to participate in my existing sports sessions. I would prefer not to discontinue my membership because the club has helped me maintain a regular exercise routine.
I would therefore like to know whether it would be possible to transfer my membership to the Monday and Wednesday morning sessions, preferably between 7:00 a.m. and 8:30 a.m. Alternatively, I would be happy to consider any available weekend sessions.
Please let me know whether there are vacancies in these groups and whether changing the schedule would involve any additional charges.
Thank you for your assistance. I look forward to your response.
Best regards,
Sam Curren
### 15\. Explain to a hotel manager why an item was left behind and request help locating it
Question
You recently stayed at a hotel and realised that you had left an important personal item in your room. Write a letter to the hotel manager. In your letter:
* Describe the item you left behind.
* Explain when and where you may have left it.
* Ask the manager to help locate and return it.
Answer
Dear Mr Roberts,
I hope you are doing well. I recently stayed at your hotel and am writing to enquire about a personal belonging that I unfortunately left behind after checking out.
I stayed at your property between 2 and 5 November in Room 308. After returning home, I realised that I could not find my black leather laptop bag. It contains my work laptop, a wireless mouse, a notebook and several important documents. The bag also has a small silver name tag attached to its handle, which should make it relatively easy to identify.
I believe I may have left it inside the wardrobe or near the writing desk in the room. On the morning of my departure, I was in a hurry to catch an early flight and may have overlooked it while packing my belongings. I contacted the reception desk yesterday, but I was advised to write directly to the management team.
Could you please ask your housekeeping department to check the room and your lost-property section? If the bag has been found, I would appreciate it if you could arrange to send it to my home address through a reliable courier service. I am happy to cover the delivery charges.
Thank you for your assistance. I look forward to hearing from you.
Best regards,
Sam Curren
### 16\. Apologise to a friend for missing an important celebration and explain why
Question
You were invited to an important celebration organised by a friend, but you were unable to attend. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter:
* Apologise for missing the celebration.
* Explain why you could not attend.
* Suggest how you would like to make it up to your friend.
Answer
Dear Alex,
Mate, I honestly feel terrible about missing your birthday celebration! I know how much effort you put into organising everything, and I really wanted to be there. I hope you had an amazing evening, though!
You probably remember that I had promised to join you on Saturday night. Unfortunately, my younger brother suddenly fell ill that afternoon and had to be taken to hospital. My parents were out of town, so I had to stay with him and make sure everything was taken care of. I kept thinking I would somehow manage to leave for a while, but things became more complicated than expected. By the time he was discharged, it was already quite late.
I tried calling you, but I am not sure whether you received my message. I should have informed you earlier, and I am genuinely sorry about that. I also felt bad knowing that you had booked a table and made arrangements for everyone.
Anyway, how about we catch up this weekend? We could go to that new Italian restaurant we talked about last month. My treat this time! I also have your birthday present ready, so I definitely owe you a proper celebration!
Once again, sorry for missing your special day. How was the party? Tell me everything!
Take care,
Sam
### 17\. Invite a friend to accompany you on a weekend trip
Question
You are planning a weekend trip and would like a friend to accompany you. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter:
* Explain where you are planning to go.
* Describe what you would like to do during the trip.
* Invite your friend to join you.
Answer
Dear Jake,
How have you been? We haven't caught up properly in ages! I was thinking that we desperately need a short break from our usual routine, and I've finally come up with a plan for the coming weekend. Why don't you join me?
I'm planning a two-day trip to Ooty, leaving early on Saturday morning and returning on Sunday evening. I've been wanting to visit the place again because the weather is lovely at this time of year, and the scenery is absolutely beautiful. I thought it would be a perfect opportunity to relax and spend some time away from work.
I've already shortlisted a comfortable little hotel near the town centre. We could visit the botanical gardens, take a scenic drive through the tea plantations and spend some time exploring the local markets. There's also a beautiful lake where we can enjoy a boat ride if the weather permits. And, of course, we can't leave without trying some freshly made homemade chocolates!
I'm thinking of travelling by car so that we can stop whenever we find an interesting viewpoint. How does that sound? You don't need to worry about the accommodation because I've found a reasonably priced place.
Let me know if you're free this weekend. It would be so much more fun with you around!
Take care,
Sam
### 18\. Ask a friend to look after your pet while you are away
Question
You are going away for a few days and need someone to look after your pet. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter:
* Explain why you will be away.
* Describe your pet's daily routine and needs.
* Ask your friend to look after your pet.
Answer
Dear Emma,
How are you doing? I hope everything is going well! I have a small favour to ask, and I immediately thought of you because you absolutely adore animals!
I'm travelling to Bengaluru next Friday for a four-day work conference. Unfortunately, the hotel does not allow pets, and I haven't been able to find a reliable pet-sitting service nearby. Would you be able to look after my little dog, Bruno, while I'm away?
You already know how friendly he is, so I'm sure you'll get along just fine! He's quite easy to manage, but he does have a few habits you should know about. He usually wakes up around 7:00 a.m. and needs a short walk before breakfast. I give him dry food twice a day, once in the morning and again around 7:00 p.m. He also needs fresh water throughout the day.
One thing, though! He gets a little anxious when he's left alone for long periods, so some company would really help. His favourite toy is the blue ball kept near the sofa, and he loves playing with it in the garden.
I'll bring his food, bedding, toys and everything else he needs to your place. Of course, I'll cover any additional expenses.
Would that be possible? It would really put my mind at ease!
Take care,
Sam
### 19\. Recommend a local class or hobby group to a friend who has recently moved
Question
Your friend has recently moved to your area and wants to meet new people. Write a letter to your friend recommending a local class or hobby group. In your letter:
* Suggest a suitable class or group.
* Explain why you think your friend would enjoy it.
* Provide details about how to join.
Answer
Dear Rachel,
How are you settling into the new neighbourhood? I hope you've managed to unpack most of your things by now! Moving to a new place can be a bit overwhelming, especially when you don't know many people, but I've got an idea that might help.
Have you considered joining the photography club at the community arts centre? I remember you mentioning how much you enjoyed taking pictures during our college trips, so I thought this would be right up your street!
The group meets every Saturday morning from 10:00 a.m. to noon. They organise photography walks around the city, practical workshops and occasional exhibitions where members can display their work. What I particularly like about this group is that it welcomes beginners as well as experienced photographers. You don't even need an expensive camera because they also teach people how to take great pictures using their mobile phones.
I joined one of their sessions last month, and everyone was incredibly friendly. It's a wonderful opportunity to learn something new while meeting people who share similar interests.
The centre is just a ten-minute walk from your apartment. You can register through its website or visit the reception desk to enquire about the next introductory session.
Why don't we attend together next Saturday? I'd love to see you there!
Take care,
Sam
### 20\. Thank a friend for helping you prepare for an interview
Question
A friend helped you prepare for an important job interview. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter:
* Thank your friend for their help.
* Explain which preparation activities were particularly useful.
* Tell your friend how the interview went.
Answer
Dear Daniel,
Mate, I really don't know how to thank you enough for helping me prepare for that interview! I honestly think I would have been a nervous wreck without your guidance!
You probably remember how worried I was when I received the interview invitation from the company. It was for a senior project coordinator position, and I hadn't attended a formal interview in almost three years. I was struggling to organise my thoughts and wasn't sure how to answer questions about my previous experience.
Those practice sessions we had over the weekend made a massive difference! You asked me some really challenging questions, especially about handling difficult clients, managing deadlines and resolving disagreements within a team. Your feedback helped me structure my answers instead of going off on unnecessary tangents. I also appreciated the way you encouraged me to give specific examples rather than simply describing my responsibilities.
Guess what? The interview actually went much better than I expected! I felt confident, answered most of the questions comfortably and even managed to ask the panel a few thoughtful questions about the role. The hiring manager seemed particularly interested in my previous project experience. I haven't received the final decision yet, but I feel quite positive about it.
Anyway, I owe you a proper treat! How about dinner this weekend? My shout this time!
Thanks again, mate. You're a star!
Take care,
Sam
### 21\. Explain to a friend why you cannot attend a planned event and suggest another date
Question
You have arranged to attend an event with a friend, but you can no longer go on the planned date. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter:
* Explain why you cannot attend.
* Apologise for changing your plans.
* Suggest another date to meet.
Answer
Dear Alex,
Mate, I have some bad news! I'm really sorry, but I'm afraid I won't be able to make it to the concert with you this Saturday. I know we've been looking forward to it for weeks, and I feel terrible about changing our plans at the last minute!
Unfortunately, my manager has just informed me that I need to attend an important client meeting on Saturday afternoon. One of our major projects has run into a few unexpected problems, and my presence is required to discuss the revised schedule with the client. I tried explaining that I already had plans, but the meeting couldn't be moved because the client is travelling overseas next week.
I know you've already booked the tickets, so please don't worry about losing your money. I'll transfer my share to you today. If the ticket is refundable or transferable, perhaps you could take someone else along instead? I'd hate for you to miss the concert because of me!
How about we plan something for next Saturday instead? There's a new comedy film showing at the multiplex, and we could grab dinner afterwards. What do you think? I'm completely free that evening, so we can choose a time that suits us both.
Sorry again, mate! Let's definitely make it happen next weekend.
Take care,
Sam
### 22\. Write to a cousin describing a new neighbourhood and recommending places to visit
Question
You have recently moved to a new neighbourhood. Write a letter to your cousin. In your letter:
* Describe your new neighbourhood.
* Mention some interesting places nearby.
* Recommend places your cousin should visit when they come to see you.
Answer
Dear Ryan,
How have you been? It's been ages since we last caught up! I've finally moved into my new apartment, and I couldn't wait to tell you all about the neighbourhood. You should definitely come and visit sometime!
The area is quite different from our old locality. It's peaceful, well-maintained and surrounded by plenty of greenery. Most of the residents are young families and working professionals, so the neighbourhood has a pleasant atmosphere. The best part is that everything I need is within walking distance, including supermarkets, pharmacies and a few lovely cafés.
There's a beautiful public park just five minutes from my apartment. It has walking trails, cycling paths and a small lake where people often spend their evenings. I think you'd really enjoy the weekend farmers' market nearby as well. They sell fresh produce, homemade snacks and some interesting handmade products. There's also a little café called The Corner House that serves excellent coffee and freshly baked cakes!
If you come over, I'd love to take you to the botanical garden on the outskirts of town. It's a lovely place to spend an afternoon, especially when the weather is pleasant. We could also explore the local food street in the evening. There are so many places I'd like you to try!
So, when are you planning to visit? Don't leave it too long!
Take care,
Sam
### 23\. Ask a friend to return an item you lent them because you need it soon
Question
You lent an item to a friend some time ago, but you now need it back urgently. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter:
* Remind your friend about the item you lent them.
* Explain why you need it back.
* Suggest when and how they could return it.
Answer
Dear Jake,
How are things going? Hope everything is fine at your end! I wanted to ask you a small favour regarding the digital camera I lent you a few weeks ago.
Do you remember borrowing my Canon camera before your family holiday? I hope you had a wonderful time and managed to take plenty of pictures! I know you were planning to use it for your travel photography project, so I didn't want to disturb you while you were away.
The reason I'm asking for it back now is that my sister's wedding is coming up next weekend, and I would really like to use the camera to capture some family photographs. We're planning a small pre-wedding gathering on Friday evening, followed by the main celebration on Sunday. Since I enjoy photography, I'd love to take some pictures myself rather than relying entirely on the hired photographer.
Would you be able to return it by Thursday evening? I can collect it from your place if that's more convenient. Alternatively, if you're coming towards my side of town, just drop it off whenever you have time. Please don't worry about the memory card or accessories; just make sure the camera is packed safely.
Let me know what works for you, alright? Thanks a lot, mate!
Take care,
Sam
### 24\. Invite a relative to attend a family graduation celebration
Question
A member of your family is graduating from university, and you are organising a celebration. Write a letter to a relative inviting them to attend. In your letter:
* Explain whose graduation is being celebrated.
* Describe the arrangements for the celebration.
* Invite your relative and encourage them to attend.
Answer
Dear Aunt Sarah,
How are you and Uncle John doing? I hope everyone is keeping well! I've got some lovely news to share with you. Ayaan has finally graduated from university, and we're organising a small family celebration next month. We would absolutely love to have you both with us!
You probably remember how hard he worked during his final year, especially while completing his research project and preparing for his examinations. Well, all that effort has finally paid off! He has completed his degree in computer science with excellent results, and we couldn't be prouder of him.
We're planning to celebrate on Sunday, 6 December, at our home. The gathering will begin around 5:00 p.m., followed by dinner in the evening. We've invited a few close relatives and family friends, and we're arranging some traditional food, music and a small cake-cutting ceremony. Ayaan is also planning to put together a slideshow of photographs from his university days. I'm sure it will bring back some wonderful memories!
It would mean a lot to have you both here for this special occasion. I know the journey is quite long, but perhaps you could come a day earlier and stay with us for the weekend? We have plenty of room, so accommodation won't be a problem.
Please let me know if you can make it. We're really looking forward to seeing you!
Take care,
Sam
### 25\. Write to a friend about a memorable local festival and encourage them to visit next year
Question
You recently attended a local festival that you particularly enjoyed. Write a letter to a friend. In your letter:
* Describe the festival and its main attractions.
* Explain why the experience was memorable.
* Encourage your friend to visit the festival next year.
Answer
Dear Emma,
How have you been? I hope work hasn't been keeping you too busy! I wanted to tell you about the wonderful festival I attended last weekend. Honestly, I wish you had been there with me. You would have absolutely loved it!
It was the annual cultural festival organised in our town, and the entire area was decorated with colourful lights, traditional artwork and beautiful floral displays. There were stalls selling handmade jewellery, local handicrafts and all kinds of delicious food. The highlight was the evening cultural programme, which featured traditional dance performances, live music and a spectacular fireworks display.
What made the experience particularly memorable was the atmosphere. People from different communities came together to celebrate, and everyone seemed genuinely happy to participate. I also met a few local artists who demonstrated their craft and explained how they create their products. I even bought a beautiful handmade decoration for my living room!
The best part was the food section. There were so many regional dishes to try that I couldn't decide what to have first! I ended up spending nearly an hour exploring the stalls and tasting different specialities.
You really should plan a visit next year! The festival usually takes place during the second week of November, so we could book the dates in advance. Why don't you come and stay with me? We can explore everything together and make a proper weekend of it!
Take care,
Sam
