IELTS General Training Writing Task 1: Course Cancellation Letter
The Task:
You recently booked a part-time course at a college, but now you need to cancel your booking.
Write a letter to the college administrator. In your letter:
- Mention which part-time course you booked
- Explain why you need to cancel your booking
- Inquire about booking a different course
Write at least 150 words.
Task 1
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Band 9 Model Answer
Dear Sir or Madam,
I am writing to formally request the cancellation of my enrollment in the part-time ‘Introduction to Graphic Design’ evening course, which is scheduled to commence on the 12th of April.
Unfortunately, due to an unforeseen and mandatory change in my professional work schedule, I am no longer able to attend classes on Tuesday and Thursday evenings. My employer has recently shifted my hours to a late shift, making it impossible for me to commute to the campus in time for the lectures.
However, I am still highly motivated to study at your institution. Could you please inform me if there is an online equivalent of this specific design course available this semester? Alternatively, I would be very interested in transferring my registration fee towards the ‘Weekend Web Development’ boot camp, provided there are still open places.
I apologize for any inconvenience this late cancellation may cause and look forward to hearing from you regarding alternative study options.
Yours faithfully,
Julian Vance
💡 Why this is a Band 9 Answer:
- Task Achievement: All three bullet points are covered comprehensively. The tone is perfectly formal and polite, matching the required register for a letter addressed to “Sir or Madam.”
- Coherence & Cohesion: Paragraphs are seamlessly structured. The logical flow moves naturally from stating the specific course to the reason for cancellation, and finally proposing a solution.
- Lexical Resource: Uses precise, formal vocabulary appropriate for academic administration (enrollment, scheduled to commence, unforeseen and mandatory change, online equivalent, transferring my registration fee).
- Grammatical Range & Accuracy: Employs a superb mix of complex sentence structures flawlessly while maintaining accurate phrasing.
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IELTS General Training Writing Task 2: Expensive vs. Cheap Clothes
The Task:
It is better to buy just a few expensive clothes rather than lots of cheaper clothes.
Do you agree or disagree?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
Task 2
Band 9 Model Essay
In recent decades, the rise of ‘fast fashion’ has saturated the global market with inexpensive, mass-produced garments. Consequently, consumers face a choice between purchasing a large volume of cheap clothing or investing in a select few expensive, high-quality items. I strongly agree that opting for a smaller wardrobe of premium clothes is the superior choice, primarily due to long-term economic benefits and significant environmental advantages.
The most compelling argument for purchasing expensive clothing is the superior durability and eventual cost-effectiveness it provides. High-end garments are typically constructed with premium fabrics, such as pure wool or organic cotton, and feature meticulous craftsmanship. As a result, these items can withstand years of regular wear and washing without losing their shape or deteriorating. Conversely, cheap clothing is often synonymous with a false economy. While the initial price tag is appealing, these garments frequently fray, shrink, or tear after only a handful of washes, necessitating constant replacements. Over time, the continuous cycle of repurchasing cheap items inevitably exceeds the cost of a single, well-made alternative.
Furthermore, buying fewer, more expensive clothes is a crucial step toward ethical and sustainable consumption. The fast-fashion industry is notorious for its devastating environmental footprint, generating millions of tons of textile waste that clog landfills annually. It also frequently relies on exploitative labor practices in developing nations to keep production costs artificially low. By deliberately choosing to invest in a few high-quality pieces, often from brands that champion ethical manufacturing, consumers can drastically reduce their personal waste and refuse to subsidize unfair labor conditions.
In conclusion, while the allure of a constantly changing, inexpensive wardrobe is understandable, prioritizing quality over quantity is fundamentally more advantageous. Investing in a few expensive garments not only proves more economical in the long run due to their longevity, but it also promotes a much more sustainable and ethically responsible approach to personal fashion.
💡 Why this is a Band 9 Answer:
- Task Response: The essay presents a clear, fully developed position that strongly agrees with the statement, satisfying all parts of the instructions.
- Coherence & Cohesion: The essay utilizes a highly effective four-paragraph structure. Transition phrases effortlessly guide the reader through the supporting arguments (Consequently, The most compelling argument, Conversely, Furthermore, In conclusion).
- Lexical Resource: Showcases an exceptional, sophisticated vocabulary suited for a socioeconomic discursive essay (fast fashion, meticulous craftsmanship, false economy, devastating environmental footprint, exploitative labor practices).
- Grammatical Range & Accuracy: Uses a wide variety of complex grammatical structures perfectly, creating a highly persuasive and authoritative academic tone.
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