Overview

Writing - Part 1: Writing an Email is the first task in the CELPIP Writing Test. In this task, you are required to write an email in response to a specific situation. This task evaluates your ability to communicate effectively in written form, demonstrating appropriate tone, organization, and language.

Structure

• Time to Complete: 27 minutes
• Word Count: Aim for around 150-200 words
• Task Type: Email response to a given scenario

What to Expect

• Context: You will be given a scenario that requires you to write an email. The scenario could involve a request, a complaint, an invitation, or any other common communication situation.
• Task: You need to respond appropriately to the scenario, addressing all parts of the prompt and using a suitable tone for the given context.

Key Skills and Strategies

1. Logical Organization

• Outline First: Spend 4-5 minutes planning your response. Outline the main points you need to address before you start writing.
• Structure Clearly: Start with a purpose statement, then proceed to the body where you address the specific tasks, and end with a concluding statement.
• Follow the Tasks in Order: Ensure that you address each part of the prompt in a logical sequence.

2. Solid Support

• Brainstorm Ideas: Think about specific details that can support your main ideas. Mention real places, people, or situations to make your response more vivid and concrete.
• Provide Specific Examples: Each main idea should be supported with at least one concrete example or detail.

3. Precise Vocabulary

• Use Descriptive Language: Choose words and phrases that are accurate and descriptive, providing clear and vivid details.
• Avoid Repetition: Try not to overuse words and phrases from the prompt. Paraphrase where possible to demonstrate a wider range of vocabulary.

4. Accurate Grammar & Clear Formatting

• Variety of Sentences: Use a mix of simple, compound, and complex sentences to show your grammatical range.
• Paragraphing: Start a new paragraph for each main idea. This helps in organizing your response clearly.
• Use Connectors and Transitions: Ensure smooth flow between ideas by using appropriate transitions and connectors.
• Check Spelling and Punctuation: Pay attention to capitalization, punctuation, and spelling to ensure your writing is easy to read.

5. Thorough Response

• Read the Prompt Carefully: Make sure you understand every part of the question and respond to it fully.
• Include All Required Elements: Write at least one sentence for each task mentioned in the prompt. Most tasks will require more than one sentence.

6. Suitable Tone

• Consider the Audience: Tailor your tone according to who will read the email. Whether it’s formal or informal, ensure your tone is appropriate.
• Polite and Professional: Avoid rudeness, sarcasm, or overly casual language unless the scenario specifically allows it.

7. Careful Proofreading

• Reserve Time to Check Your Work: Spend 3-4 minutes at the end to review your response. Look for errors in grammar, spelling, and punctuation, and ensure your ideas are well-organized.
• Common Errors: Be aware of the types of mistakes you tend to make and focus on correcting those during proofreading.

Common Pitfalls

• Ignoring the Prompt: Failing to address all parts of the prompt can significantly lower your score. Make sure your email covers everything that is asked of you.
• Overusing Words and Phrases: Repeating words or phrases from the question without paraphrasing can make your response seem unoriginal and less sophisticated.
• Lack of Paragraphing: Writing in one large block without paragraphs makes your email harder to read and understand.

Sample Strategy

Example Scenario:

"You recently stayed at a hotel and were unhappy with the service. Write an email to the hotel manager explaining your concerns."

Example Response Outline:

1. Introduction: "Dear [Hotel Manager], I am writing to express my dissatisfaction with the service I received during my recent stay at your hotel."
2. Main Body:
   • Issue 1: "Firstly, the room was not cleaned properly. I found dust on the furniture and the bathroom was not stocked with essentials."
   • Issue 2: "Additionally, the staff at the front desk was unhelpful and rude when I requested assistance."
3. Conclusion: "I hope that you will address these issues promptly to improve the experience for future guests. I look forward to hearing from you."
4. Sign-off: "Sincerely, [Your Name]"

Final Advice

To excel in Writing - Part 1: Writing an Email, practice writing emails for a variety of scenarios, focusing on clear organization, appropriate tone, and supporting your ideas with specific details. Regular practice, combined with careful planning and proofreading, will help you to write effective emails that meet the CELPIP exam's high standards.