Study Notes: CELPIP Writing Task 1 (Writing an Email)
Overview of CELPIP Writing Task 1
Task: Write an email based on the provided scenario.
Word Limit: 150–200 words (10% leeway allowed: 135–220 words).
Time: 27 minutes to complete the task, including planning, writing, and proofreading.
Tone: Formal or semi-formal, depending on the recipient.
Purpose: Evaluate your ability to convey information, organize ideas logically, and
use appropriate language.
Assessment Criteria
1. Task Fulfillment:
o Address all points mentioned in the prompt.
o Use specific, detailed examples to support your ideas.
2. Coherence and Organization:
o Use clear paragraphs (each main idea in its own paragraph).
o Ensure logical flow and connection between ideas.
3. Vocabulary and Language:
o Use varied and precise vocabulary.
o Avoid repetition and use higher-level words where appropriate.
o Maintain a professional and polite tone.
4. Grammar and Sentence Structure:
o Use correct grammar and punctuation.
o Include a variety of sentence structures (simple, compound, and complex).
Structure of the Email
1. Greeting:
o Begin with “Dear [Recipient]” or “Attention [Recipient]”.
o Use a colon (:) for a formal tone.
2. Opening Paragraph:
o Introduce the purpose of the email.
o Include relevant background details from the prompt.
3. Body Paragraphs:
o Organize into 2–3 paragraphs.
o Address each bulleted point from the prompt with specific examples.
4. Closing Paragraph:
o Summarize the main points.
o State the desired action and provide contact information.
5. Sign-off:
o Use formal endings like “Sincerely” or “Regards”.
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Sample Prompt and Example Response
Prompt:
You have been having problems with the windows in your new apartment. They let in city
noise and cold air, causing discomfort.
Write an email to your building manager in about150–200 words. Your email should do the
following things:
1. Describe the problems with your windows.
2. Explain how the problems are affecting you.
3. Suggest how you would like the problems solved.
Sample Response
Subject: Request for Window Replacement in Apartment
Dear Building Manager:
The windows in my apartment (Suite 405) are allowing loud noises and cold drafts to enter
from the street below. I am writing to request that the windows be replaced with double-pane
glass and resealed to improve insulation.
Living near the downtown core, I can hear honking horns, police sirens, and even late-night
shouting despite keeping my windows shut. This intrusive noise makes it difficult to relax or
concentrate, and I often struggle to sleep. Installing double-pane glass would significantly
reduce this disturbance, providing a calmer living environment.
Additionally, the cold drafts entering through the worn window seals have been particularly
challenging during this unusually cold winter. Despite turning up the thermostat, I often feel
uncomfortably cold, leading to increased heating costs. Resealing the windows would prevent
these drafts, ensuring warmth and reducing energy expenses.
Please let me know if the windows can be replaced soon. You can reach me at (555) 123-
4567 to discuss this matter further.
Sincerely/ Regards,
[Your Name]
Explanation of the Example
1. Task Fulfillment:
o All three points (problems, effects, and solution) are addressed clearly and in
detail.
o Specific examples: honking horns, sirens, and drafts.
2. Coherence and Organization:
o Four-paragraph structure ensures clarity:
Paragraph 1: Introduction and purpose.
Paragraph 2: City noise and its effects.
Paragraph 3: Cold air and its effects.
Paragraph 4: Summary and next steps.
3. Vocabulary and Language:
o Varied vocabulary: "intrusive noise," "double-pane glass," "resealing,"
"insulation."
o Adverbs and adjectives enhance precision: "significantly reduce," "unusually
cold."
4. Grammar and Sentence Structure:
o Uses a mix of sentence types:
Simple: "The windows in my apartment are letting in loud noises."
Compound: "Despite turning up the thermostat, I often feel
uncomfortably cold, leading to increased heating costs."
Complex: "Living near the downtown core, I can hear honking horns,
police sirens, and even late-night shouting despite keeping my
windows shut."
Tips for Success
1. Planning:
o Spend 1–2 minutes outlining your response.
o Decide the structure and specific details for each paragraph.
2. Proofreading:
o Dedicate 3–4 minutes to reviewing grammar, spelling, and word choice.
o Replace simple words with more precise or advanced vocabulary.
3. Practice:
o Write practice emails with similar scenarios (e.g., complaints, requests).
o Use online dictionaries and thesauruses to build vocabulary.
This example and explanation provide a roadmap to mastering CELPIP Writing Task 1,
ensuring your response meets all assessment criteria effectively.
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