Formal IELTS General Writing Task 1: A Temporary Job

Mar 24, 2022 | IELTS Test, IELTS Writing

This month we have written a task 1 letter ins a formal tone. It is very important with a formal letter to keep the tone consistent throughout. This means that in addition to starting with Dear Sir or Madam your should also finish with Yours sincerely or something similar.

The letter follows this format…

Salutation – as given in the question

1st paragraph – answering the first bullet point

2nd paragraph  answering the second bullet point

3rd and 4th paragraphs – answering the third bullet point

Sign off – remember, it is important to maintain the tone with which you started

The Question 

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. Write at least 150 words.

You are looking for a temporary job between graduating from school and starting university. You have heard about a summer job in a supermarket.

Write a letter to the manager of the supermarket. In your letter

– say why you need a temporary job

– explain why you would be a good employee

– ask some questions about the work

You do NOT need to write any addresses.

Begin your letter as follows:

Dear Sir or Madam … 

IELTS General Writing Task 1 Model Answer - Formal application for a job by Andrew Turner @ EnglishWithAnExpert.com

The Answer

Dear Sir or Madam,

I write in relation to the temporary fulfilment job for which your team in Harrogate is currently hiring. I am seeking temporary employment for the three-month period between school and university to gain experience of the working world and, particularly, of life within a fast-paced warehouse environment. 

Having studied the ‘person requirements’ for this position on your website, I am confident I have the qualities you are looking for: I thrive while working within a tight-knit team, and, as I have proven in previous employment, I am able to remain calm while under pressure. 

Should you choose to shortlist me for this position, I would have some questions: firstly, do working hours adhere to a set schedule, each week, or can you offer some flexibility to accommodate other commitments? Secondly, are steel-capped boots required at all times? Finally, I would also appreciate clarification on whether a pension package is offered as a benefit of this role. 

Yours sincerely, 

Phillip Wood

What next?

If you would like to answer the same question and receive feedback, purchase one of our Writing Correction Packages.

If you would like to watch a video about how to write IELTS General Task 1 letters, visit this page.

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