WRITING EXAMPLES

Informal Letter & Email: Model Answers

Topic

Your Italian pen friend, Antonia, wrote and asked about your lifestyle in England. Read part of
Antonia‟s letter and reply:

I think I have a very healthy lifestyle. I eat a lot of fruit and I get a lot of fresh air. My family
lives near the mountains, so we often go walking. Last weekend, we went rock climbing. I saw a
lot of wildlife and I took a lot of photos. What kind of lifestyle do you have?

Model answer

Dear Antonia,

Thanks for your letter. Your lifestyle sounds really interesting! We don‟t live near the
mountains so I‟ve never been rock climbing, but I‟d love to try it.

You asked me about my lifestyle. I think I‟m quite healthy too. I sleep for about eight
hours every night and I eat a lot of fruit and vegetables. I like doing exercise. I‟m quite
good at tennis and I often go swimming with my friends. Last month, I decided to do
something different. I did a snorkelling course at our local swimming pool. While I was
doing the course, I met some really great people! The course was hard, but we were all
in the same boat!

I‟d love to visit you one day. I think we‟d get on really well!

Please write soon!

Love
Kate
Topic:

You have received this email from an English speaking boy called Simon.

Hello, I would like to get to know someone from your country and a friend has told me that you
would like to practise your English perhaps we could email each other. Could you tell me a bit
about yourself and your family. Could you suggest how we might meet sometime in the future.

Thanks,
Simon

Model answer

Hello Simon,

I’m glad you’re interested in my country. As your friend said, I’d like us to email each
other to help me improve your English.

Let me start by telling you a bit about myself and my family. My name’s Ivo and I live
in Kutna Hora, which is about 45 minutes from Prague by car. I used to work for a
medical company but now I’m learning to be a salesperson. In the future, I want a job
where I can travel for my work. I’ve already been to a few places in Europe but I’ve
never been to an English-speaking country.

I live at home with my parents, which is convenient, as I don’t have to do much

housework and my meals are cooked for me. My younger brother is studying at
university. Although he is four years younger than me, we get on quite well. We both
enjoy snowboarding and music.

What about you? Have you ever been to the Czech Republic? It would be great if you
could come over one day and we could fix up a meeting. Why don’t you let me know
your plans?

Anyway, I must go and get on with my work! Looking forward to hearing from you
soon.

Best wishes,
Ivo
Topic:

An English friend of yours is visiting your city next summer. Write to him and tell him about the
places he should visit and the clothes he should wear. You must also offer him to stay with you
during his stay

Model answer

Dear Jack,

It’s great to hear from you after so long! How are you doing? I’m so excited about your
visit next summer. Let me give you some tips so you can get ready.

First of all, there are some places which you can’t miss! For example, here in Granada,
you should totally visit the Alhambra, an ancient Muslim palace. It was nominated to
become one of the new seven wonders of the world. Also, don’t forget to check out St
Nicholas viewpoint – you’ll have the best views of the Alhambra and the whole city.

As for clothes, remember that it can get super hot in Granada, especially for foreigners!
So forget about long sleeves or trousers and just pack some shorts, T-shirts and sandals.
Oh, and remember to bring a cap, too!

By the way, do you have a place to stay? If you want, I could put you up in my place. I
have a spare room and it would be great to have you here.

Anyway, I must dash now. Drop me a line soon and let me know what you think.

Best wishes,
Carlos
 Formal Letter/Email: Model Answers

Topic

You have seen the following advertisement in a newspaper:

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!

We are the National Diabetes Organisation and we are organising a campfor diabetic children.
We need volunteers to work with us during the camp.

Your responsibilities will include:

▪ Teaching children about diabetes

▪ Playing games with them

Also, you should speak several languages because it’s an international camp

Write a letter applying to become a volunteer

Model answer

Dear Sir or Madam,

I am writing with regard to the advertisement posted in yesterday’s newspaper about the
camp for diabetic children. I would like to take part as a volunteer if it is possible.

As you can see in my résumé, I completed a degree in nursing, so I am qualified to

teach children about it. Besides, I suffer from diabetes, so I am quite familiar with this
illness and how to deal with it.

Furthermore, I have some experience organising entertaining events for children, as I

worked at a regular camp for children last summer. For this reason, I am capable of
organising and playing fun games with children.

Finally, I must say that I can speak 3 languages, since I have spent some time abroad, in
England and Germany. Therefore, apart from Spanish, I am fuent in English and
German.

Can I ask about the duration of the camp? What is the daily timetable?I look forward to
hearing from you.

Yours faithfully,

José
Topic:

You bought the personal stereo advertised in a mail-order catalogue.

A GREAT LITTLE PERSONAL MUSIC CENTER THAT FITS IN YOUR POCKET!

(Very big and too heavy for my pocket)

This high-quality stereo comes to you at the unbeatable price of $19.99,

(not true – found one for $14.99 in shop) including the cost of postage, lower than you will
find in any shop.

It comes compete with:

▪ Headphones (missing)
▪ Convenient carrying case (zip broken)
▪ Batteries

It has a recording facility (didn’t work) ,will pick up any radio station, and plays all your tapes
(destroyed two tapes) with high-quality sound.

Write a letter to Home Mail Order, complaining about the stereo, and asking for your money
back, or a new stereo

Model answer

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing in connection with a personal stereo which I saw advertised in your mail-
order catalogue. Last week I bought one of these, and I am sorry to say that I was very
disappointed when I received it.

First of all, your advertisement stated that the price would be lower than in any shop but
I saw the same stereo at a price of $14.99 instead of $19.99

Furthermore, your advertisement promised that it would be a high-quality stereo

complete with all necessary accessories. However, when I received it, the headphones
were missing and there was a broken zip on the carrying bag. As well, the recording
facility did not work, and I have already destroyed two tapes that contained my
favourite musical compositions.

Finally, you also promised that it would be a compact and portable device. However,
the stereo was so big and heavy that it could not be carried in a pocket.

Could you please arrange for me to receive a new one or refund my money in full?

I look forward to hearing from you.

Yours faithfully,
Peter Petrov

Review: Model Answers

Topic

You have seen this notice in your school library:

REVIEWS NEEDED
We want to buy some new books for the library. Have you read a good book in English
recently?
Write us a review of a book you enjoyed, explaining why you liked it and why you think it would
be a good choice for the school library.

We will use your reviews to help us decide which books to buy

Model answer

THE THIEVES OF OSTIA

„The thieves of Ostia‟ by Caroline Lawrence is the first in a series of books

entitled„The Roman Mysteries‟ and I think it‟s an absolute must for the school library.

The book is set in the Roman port of Ostia nearly two thousand years ago. It tells the
story of Flavia and her three friends, and their attempts to discover who has been killing
the dogs of Ostia and why. It‟s full of mystery and excitement, and the plot has many
twists and turns, which make you want to keep reading.

The book is aimed at ten – to twelve – year – old native English speakers, but it is very
popular with older children and would be ideal for teenagers studying English. What‟s
more, it gives a fascinating insight into life in Roman times, so readers learn about
history as well as improve their language skills.

After finishing „The Thieves of Ostia‟, students will want to borrow further books
from the series. By buying it, then, the library would be doing a lot to encourage
students to read more in English
Topic:

You have found the following advertisement online:

RESTAURANT REVIEWS WANTED!

Have you been to a great restaurant lately? If so, send us an honest review of the restaurant
explaining what you liked and disliked of the place as well as its location, staff and how it looks
on the inside.

We will publish the first 20 decent reviews we get!

Model answer

Foster’s Hollywood

Being a huge fan of traditional American fast food and restaurant styles, it’s no wonder
that my favourite restaurant in Granada is Foster’s Hollywood.

Located smack in the middle of the city, this fast-food chain serves a wide variety of
mouthwatering, American dishes at a reasonable price. These range from typical Tex-
Mex nachos or French fries to more elaborate meals like traditional, homemade
Bourbon steak. And if you’re hungry, it’s the perfect place to go, as their servings are
absolutely huge!

Another cool thing about this place is its magnificent decor. If you’re a film buff, you
will quickly fall in love with this place, since all the walls are covered in famous movie
posters! Apart from that, it’s got a spacious dining hall, super friendly staff and an
outdoor terrace which is absolutely fantastic on summer nights!

The only negative thing I can say is that it is right next to a gym, which sometimes
makes me feel guilty for eating so much!

Nevertheless, Foster’s Hollywood offers delicious meals in an unbeatable atmosphere,

so you should definitely give it a try. I promise you won’t regret it!
 Article: Model Answers
Subject:

A local magazine has asked readers to write an article about their favourite things about the
Internet. Write the article talking about the things you do with the Internet and recommend a
website to other readers.

Write your article.

Student’s FCE Article Answer:

The Internet: A Great Invention

The Internet has changed the way we live. It started as something that we could access
only through a computer, but nowadays it is everywhere, and I love it!

One of the cool things about the world wide web is that you can look up anything you
want and nd out the answer straight away. Isn’t that fantastic? For example, imagine
you are arguing with your friends about how to do something. Easy solution! Go online
and find the answer.

However, the greatest thing about the Internet is how you can learn tons of things very
cheaply or even for free! In fact, my favourite website is [Link],where
people register to teach and learn about different things: music, website design, making
apps, history, etc. So I totally recommend it to everyone!

In conclusion, the Internet has a lot of great things. For me, the best are finding
information and learning online. What about you? What are your favourite things about
it?
Subject:

Fitness bloggers wanted!

Our fitness magazine is looking for influencers to write an article on how to stay fit when you
are a college student. So if you have any cool ideas, send us an article in which you:

• Explain the type of exercise you recommend

• Recommend a healthy but cheap diet
• Give other ideas you like

Write your article.

Student’s FCE Article Answer:

Keep It Healthy!

Are you a busy college student? Do you struggle to keep fit and eat healthily? Don’t
worry! I am going to tell you exactly what you should do. Keep on reading, you will
thank me later!

First of all, you must start moving your body. You could go to the gym if you have the
time. But if you’re busy – you’re a student, you should be busy! – don’t sign up for a
gym. Instead, start cycling to college and give up using elevators. You’ll see how your
fitness improves quickly!

Secondly, your diet is just as important. I suppose you live on a low budget, so I suggest
you don’t eat out much. Eating out can be unhealthy and expensive. Sogo to your local
supermarket and buy healthy, inexpensive vegetables and fruit.

Finally, pay attention to how you sit when you are studying. Posture is super important
to feel well, especially if you are a student or an office worker.

If you follow all these tips, I’m sure you will keep fit easily! And if you already tried
that, let me know how you feel now
 Report: Example Answers
Subject:

Your college has just published the first issue of the new college magazine. The organisers are
interested in knowing what students thought about it, so they have asked you to write a report.
In your report, you should talk about what the students liked and disliked about the articles, the
sports section and the news section. Then, you should make suggestions on how to improve the
magazine.

Write a report.

Student’s FCE Report Answer:

The New College Magazine

Introduction
The purpose of this report is to outline students’ opinions about the new college
magazine, and to make recommendations based on their views.

The articles
Most students thought the articles were interesting and well written. However, they did
not talk about modern topics, so some students found this part of the magazine a little
boring.

The sports section

It is thought that the sports section is good, but most articles were about football or
basketball. This is not a good thing because most of our sporty students play rugby, not
football or basketball.

The news section

Many students complained about the news section, because it only focused on news
about the college. These students were expecting to read some news about the city, too.

Recommendations
In order to solve the problems above, I recommend taking some measures. Firstly,
article writers should focus more on technology and other modern issues. Secondly, we
should consider writing more about rugby and less about other sports. Finally, we
should include some news about our city. If we do these things, the magazine will be
more interesting to our students.
Subject:

The gym you work for has been losing members recently and would like to know why they are
leaving. The gym manager has asked you to write a report about why these customers are
leaving. In your report you should specify what the problems are and should give
recommendations for improvement.

Student’s FCE Report Answer:

Improving Our Gym

Introduction

The aim of this report is to explain the main reasons why members are leaving the gym.
After interviewing some clients, we have identified some serious problems.

Limited opening hours

Some members have complained that the gym opens a little late for them. For this
reason, workers cannot exercise before going to work. If the gym opened at 7 a.m.,
clients could exercise easily before going to work.

The changing rooms

Many of the lockers are broken so customers cannot leave their belongings in a safe
place. Also, some of the showers are not working properly so members have to queue
before having a shower. In order to solve this, I suggest replacing all lockers and
showers immediately.

Lack of parking spaces

Some previous members have joined gyms which have a parking lot. Although we
cannot build a parking lot, we can offer a parking area for bicycles. As a result, this
might encourage members to use their bikes to come to the gym.

Conclusion
To sum up, I believe that if we take care of these problems, members will be happier
and will decide to stay with us.
 Essay: Example essays

Subject:

In your English class you have been talking about the environment. Write an essay using all the
notes and give reasons for your point of view.

Every country in the world has problems with pollution and damage to the environment.
Do you think these problems can be solved?

Notes:

Write about:
1. transport
2. rivers and seas
3. ………………………… (your own idea)

Student’s FCE Essay Answer:

DEVELOPMENT VS ENVIRONMENT

If we surf the web looking for pollution and environmental catastrophes, we will find
out that every country in the world suffers them. This is a natural consequence of the
struggle between development and environment.

If a country decided to live isolated from the rest of the world, living on what it can
naturally grow and produce, it surely wouldn’t be highly polluted. But we all want
exotic food and technological items from all over the world, so we have to pay the price.

Investing on electrical transport would benefit the environment a lot. Even more if this
electricity came from a natural source of energy like wind, rivers and solar boards. It’s
difficult to achieve this because petrol companies will fight against these actions.

We also have to take care of our rivers and seas. We all have heard about factories
throwing highly toxic substances to rivers, without minimizing their poisoning effects.
A really strict law should be applied to fine these factories and make them change their
policy.

But what about ourselves? We also can do a lot! If, when possible, we bought larger
packs of food, we would be producing less rubbish. And this is only an example!
Subject:

In your English class you have been talking about the fashion industry. Write an essay using all
the notes and giving reasons for your point of view.

Some people say the fashion industry has a bad effect on people’s lives.
Do you agree?

Notes

Write about:
1. whether people’s appearance is important
2. the price of clothes
3. …………………… (your own idea)

Student’s FCE Essay Answer:

The society we live today is characterised by technology in constant development, fast

speed processes, information travelling and getting to people at a blink of an eye and a
complex web of social networking. In this context, the fashion industry is becoming
increasingly important and having a more and more paramount role in our lives.

On one hand, the fashion industry is undeniably a source of profit and income. It hires
millions of people all over the world and generates millions of dollars every year.
Furthermore, such profitable business is also believed to be able to spread and make
known the culture of a people, encouraging and enhancing a better understanding of
each other.

Nevertheless, for those who are neither impressed nor motivated by numbers and
figures, the fashion industry is seen as one which segregates people, isolating those who
not fit their laws and commands. It is stated that people place too much importance on
appearance and the material, world, sadly true, and the fashion industry just spurs on
such situation. Moreover, not only are the costs of fashion item unrealistically high, it is
thought to be a money better spent on more pressing issues, such as poverty and hunger.

I do believe that the fashion industry, as it is today, has a harmful effect, because it
values a minority of people in detriment to the majority. However, it has such a wide
reach that, it put into a good use, it can save lives.