Below you will find a model answer to a semi-formal question. A semi-formal question is one in which you are asked to write to someone whose name you know, but who is not your friend.
Note that the second bullet point tells you to ask questions – this is plural, and so you must ask more than one question to achieve more than band 5.0 for Task Achievement.
Our model answer follows the following template…
Salutation – this can either be the first name or the family name
1st paragraph – answering the first bullet point
2nd paragraph – answering the second bullet point
3rd paragraph – answering the third bullet point
Sign-off – a semi-formal sign-off (Yours)
The Mock IELTS General Task 1 Question
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. Write at least 150 words.
Your local gym is planning to provide a new room where members can relax after a workout. The manager has asked members for their views about this.
Write a letter to the manager. In your letter
- Say what you think of the plan
- Ask some questions about the new room
- Make a suggestion for the room
You do NOT need to write any addresses.
Begin your letter as follows:
Dear …………… ,
Mock Semi-formal Answer
Dear Jenny,
I’m writing to offer some feedback on the proposed redevelopment of the gym building’s eastern wing. Overall, the plans all appear very positive at first glance; the interior design looks to be the perfect blend of form and function. The limited space we have has been utilised cleverly, and the room is bathed in natural light.
I had some questions. Firstly, will non-members be granted entry and, if so, will guest passes be required? To what extent will the costs of the redevelopment be absorbed by the members? And, finally, has the room’s opening hours been considered?
One suggestion – which I’ve heard from several fellow members too – is to make some improvements to the current dining options. I’m confident there is a broad appetite for an a la carte offering. That would, of course, require more hands on deck – but would also transform the club as a destination for everybody to spend a little more time (and perhaps a little more money too).
Yours,
Peter Potts
How to Continue Your IELTS Study
If you would like to get some IELTS practice, answer the same question and purchase one of our Writing Correction Packages to get feedback.
If you would like to watch a video about how to write IELTS General Task 1 letters, visit this page.