Use the greeting, sign-off and paragraph plan below for this informal letter, write it on a 20-minute timer, then compare it with a band-8 model letter.
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
You could not attend your cousin's wedding because of a work problem.
Write a letter to your cousin. In your letter
Write at least 150 words.
You do NOT need to write any addresses.
Begin your letter as follows:
Dear Dilnoza,
GoPrep wrote this practice question in the style of the exam. It is not an official IELTS question.
A letter to a friend ends warmly, for example Best wishes or Love, followed by your first name.
Spend the first few minutes planning, then write.
0 words of 150 minimum
Your answer stays on this page only. Copy it before you leave.
Write your own answer first, then compare: how it answers the exact question, what each paragraph does, and which phrases you could borrow.
Dear Dilnoza,
I'm so sorry that I couldn't be at your wedding. I was heartbroken to miss such an important day, and I've been thinking about you both ever since.
You'll remember I told you my firm was sending me to Hamburg for an important client meeting, but I'd hoped to be back in time. At the last minute, the client moved the meeting to the morning of your wedding, and my boss made it clear that I had to be there, because the contract was worth a lot to the company. I tried to rearrange the flights, but there was nothing available.
I've seen the photos on your mother's page, and you both looked wonderful.
I'd like to celebrate with you properly when I get back. Why don't I take you both out for dinner on the first weekend of next month? I'll also bring your gift, and I hope you'll tell me all about the day.
Congratulations again, and please forgive me!
Love,
Gulnoza
| Phrase | Meaning |
|---|---|
| I'm so sorry about | simple, warm apology |
| I feel awful about | say you feel very guilty |
| It was all my fault. | take the blame |
| Can I make it up to you? | offer to fix things |
| Please don't be cross with me. | ask a friend not to be angry |
Answer random Part 1, 2 and 3 questions on an exam timer.
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Look up the IELTS score a university asks for, with the source.