The aim of this tutorial is to help you:
-Understand the questions and the setting or context for the letter.
-Think about what to write – how to use the prompts that you are given in the question rubric.
-Understand how to start and how to finish your letters – with IELTS you cannot make mistakes on this!
-How to get your letter in a logical order which will help your coherence.
-How to use great grammar but make it sound natural
Click here to get the full tutorial
https://www.ieltspodcast.com/ielts-writing-task/task-1-general-letter-2/
Mastering IELTS General Training Letters: A Comprehensive Guide to Cover Letters and Informal Writing
Writing letters for IELTS General Training Task 1 requires a keen understanding of different writing styles and formats. Today, we’ll explore two crucial types of letters: formal cover letters for job applications and informal letters to friends or family.
Cover Letters: Making a Professional Impact
When crafting a cover letter for IELTS, it’s essential to maintain a professional tone whilst showcasing your qualifications effectively. Here are the key elements to include:
Opening Your Cover Letter
Begin with a clear reference to the position you’re applying for. For example: “I’m writing in reference to the position of [job title] which I saw advertised in [source].” This immediately establishes context and purpose.
Follow this with a brief overview of your qualifications and experience. Remember to maintain formal language) throughout your letter.
Essential Phrases for Cover Letters
“I’ve previously worked as…” (describing past experience)
“I consider myself to be…” (highlighting personal qualities)
“My skills include…” (detailing specific abilities)
“I would very much like to join your team…” (expressing interest)
Structure and Content Tips
Keep your cover letter concise and precise. The examiner looks for:
Clear organisation of ideas
Appropriate formal language
Relevant qualifications and experience
Proper opening and closing phrases
Visit our General Training Task 1 guide) for more detailed examples and templates.
Informal Letters: Striking the Right Balance
Writing informal letters requires a different approach. While they should be friendly, remember this is still an exam – avoid being overly casual.
Key Features of Informal Letters
You can include:
Natural Language Examples
Consider these informal yet appropriate expressions:
“Hope this letter finds you well!”
“It’s been ages since I last saw you”
“I can’t bear…” (expressing frustration)
“…with a decent salary” (describing job benefits)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Whether writing formal or informal letters, be careful to avoid:
Mixing formal and informal language
Using overly complex sentences
Forgetting to address all points in the task
Including irrelevant information
For more guidance on avoiding common mistakes, check our IELTS writing mistakes guide).
Need More Help?
If you’re preparing for IELTS and want professional guidance, consider joining our online IELTS course). We offer comprehensive feedback on your writing and specific modules designed to help you achieve your target score.
Remember, practice makes perfect. Keep writing different types of letters, and don’t hesitate to get expert feedback on your work. With the right approach and guidance, you can master IELTS General Training Task 1 letters.
Click here) to read the full transcript.
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