Use the greeting, sign-off and paragraph plan below for this formal 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.
An animal shelter is looking for volunteers to help at weekends.
Write a letter to the shelter coordinator. In your letter
Write at least 150 words.
You do NOT need to write any addresses.
Begin your letter as follows:
Dear Sir or Madam,
GoPrep wrote this practice question in the style of the exam. It is not an official IELTS question.
A letter that begins Dear Sir or Madam ends Yours faithfully, followed by your full 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 Sir or Madam,
I am writing to apply for the weekend volunteer position at Happy Paws Animal Shelter, which I saw advertised in the local newspaper.
I have loved animals since I was a child, and I currently have two rescued dogs of my own. I would be proud to help abandoned animals find new homes and to see them grow healthier and happier.
I have some relevant experience. Two summers ago, I spent a month helping at a small farm, where I fed, cleaned and walked the animals. I am also comfortable with simple first-aid for pets, since I attended a short course last year. I am calm, reliable and not afraid of dirty work.
I am free on both Saturdays and Sundays from 9 am until 5 pm, and I could start at the beginning of next month.
I would be glad to visit the shelter for an interview whenever it suits you, and I look forward to hearing from you.
Yours faithfully,
Sofia Marino
| Phrase | Meaning |
|---|---|
| I am writing to apply for the position of | formal opening for a job application |
| I believe I am well suited to this role because | introduce your main reason for applying |
| I have extensive experience in | say you have done something for a long time |
| I am available for an interview at your convenience. | offer to attend an interview |
| I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my application further. | formal ending asking for an interview |
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