Recommending someone, like a friend, to a position of some sort is a task that you could encounter in the writing test. As it will usually be directed to a company or organisation, a formal tone is needed, with full, grammatically complete sentences.
The model letter below meets all the task requirements by addressing the three bullet points in a logical order. A number of higher-level terms and collocations (academically, empathy, in this capacity, appreciative, personal confidence, asset, etc) are included.
We have chosen a 5-paragraph format, the final two of which are just single sentences. This would look rather odd in an essay, but in letters, writers often choose to present an idea or point in this way to focus attention.
A mixture of sentence types and lengths is evident, including complex forms and reduced clauses.
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
One of your friends wants to apply for a job at a summer school camp as a sports trainer. Write a letter to the camp manager to recommend your friend.
In your letter:
. say how well you know your friend
. describe the qualifications and experience that your friend has
. explain why your friend would be suitable for this job.
Write at least 150 words.
You do NOT need to write any addresses.
Begin your letter as follows:
Dear Sir or Madam
Model IELTS General Writing Task 1 Answer
Dear Sir or Madam,
In regard to the job vacancy for a sports trainer at your summer school camp, I would like to recommend my friend Mick Ray. I have known Mick since we were at university together and believe he would be an excellent choice for you.
As you will see from his CV, Mick is extremely well-qualified academically. He graduated with an A for his Diploma in Physical Education from Sheffield University and has since completed advanced certificate courses in sports injury management and youth psychology.
He has a natural empathy with young people and the problems and requirements that many are subject to. Currently engaged part-time by the Youth Football Association as an advisor, he also coaches and manages his 15-year-old daughter’s football team. In this capacity, he has been highly commended by other parents who report their children have been most appreciative of the way he develops their skills and builds their personal confidence.
For these reasons, Mick would be a great asset for your school camp, and I am sure you would see this for yourself after a personal interview with him.
Please do contact me via email or phone (details above) if I can provide any further information.
Yours sincerely
Mike Robinson
[207 words. The salutations to begin and end the letter, and the name at the end do not form part of the word count.]
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