General Writing Sample Task 1 #76

Polite expressions for letter writing

There are many standard phrases used in polite letters.

making requests

  • I'm writing to request ...
  • Would you mind ... ing?
  • Would it be possible to ...?
  • I would be extremely grateful if you could ...
  • I was wondering if you could ...

apologising and asking for understanding

  • I'm afraid that ...
  • Unfortunately, ...
  • I hope you can understand (my situation).
  • I'm sorry for any inconvenience caused.

showing understanding

  • I understand/realise that ...
  • I'm aware that ...

introducing information

  • As you know, ...
  • As I'm sure you are aware, ...

closing

  • Yours sincerely/Yours faithfully
  • I look forward to hearing from you soon.

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

You paid a refundable deposit when you rented an apartment. You left the apartment in good condition but the Landlord won't return your deposit.

Write a letter to the landlord. In your letter

  • explain why you are writing
  • ask for the return of your deposit
  • inform the landlord of possible legal action

Write at least 150 words.

Model answer

Using connecting expressions, complete this sample answer.

Dear Mr. Coleman,

I am writing to request the return of the £800 deposit I paid to you I rented No. 21, Britannia Court for the month of April. I telephoned your office I was told you are not intending to repay this money I am unable to understand the reason for this.

I signed the rental agreement it was my understanding the deposit would be returned the apartment was vacated dean and undamaged. This was the condition of the flat I returned the keys. I cleaned the whole apartment and there were no breakages and no damage to fittings or furniture.

I believe I have kept to the terms of the agreement and I respectfully request my deposit be repaid in full. I shall have no alternative to seek legal advice we are unable to resolve this matter in a satisfactory manner.

Yours sincerely,
Steve Chapman

(161 words)

CHECK ANSWERS


Dear readers,

This is to inform you that we have moved to a new domain, https://www.ielts-writing.info/EXAM/.

Our old domain, https://www.ielts-exam.net/ will remain active till the time we migrate all our content to the new domain.

We look forward to your continuing support.