Write a letter to your friend. In your letter: - give details of the course you took at the university - explain why you recommend the university - give some advice about how to apply
Sample Response
Dear Nairit,
I hope this letter finds you well. I’m excited to hear that you’re considering applying for the same Computer Science course I tooksame course I took at Oxford University. Pursuing a degree in Computer Science was an incredible experience, and I’d be more than happy to share my experiencethoughts and advice.
The Computer Science courseprogram at Oxford University is truly exceptional. It offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers both theoretical and practical aspects of the subject. The professors are highly knowledgeable and passionate about their fields, and they encourage critical thinking and intellectual growth. Additionally, the university provides excellent resources, such as state-of-the-art labs and a well-stocked library, to support your studieslearning journey.
One of the reasons I highly recommend Oxford University is its vibrant and diverse community. You’ll have the opportunity to interact with students from various backgrounds, broadening your perspectiveperspectives and fostering a rich exchange of ideas. The campus is also beautiful, offering a supportiveconducive environment for study and personal growth.
As for the application process, I advise you tomy advice would be to start early and pay close attention to the deadlines. Make sure to prepare a strong personal statement that highlights your passion for the subject, relevant experiences, and future goals. Additionally, obtain strong letters of recommendationsecure excellent letters of recommendation from professors or mentors who can attest to your academic potential and character.
I wish you the very best in your endeavors, and I’m confident that Oxford University could provide you with an exceptional educational experience. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any further questions or need additional guidance.
Warmest regards,
Sunanda Balki
Why this response received Band 8.5
This is a comprehensive, smoothly organised letter that fully explains the course, gives convincing reasons for the recommendation, and offers detailed application advice in an encouraging voice. The main limitation is occasional formality and promotional phrasing that slightly weakens the natural friend-to-friend register. The best improvement would be to make the language more personal and concise while preserving the excellent coverage and clarity.
IELTS Writing Criteria Scores
Task Achievement
The letter fully develops every requested point and maintains an encouraging relationship with the recipient, with only slight over-formality.
Add one or two personal details from your own experience and trim promotional language to strengthen the authentic friendly tone.
Coherence and Cohesion
Ideas are sequenced naturally in focused paragraphs, and cohesive devices guide the reader without obscuring the message.
Tighten the final paragraph slightly so the conclusion remains warm without repeating the offer of guidance.
Lexical Resource
The response uses a wide and precise range of academic and application-related vocabulary, though a few choices are rather formal for a friend.
Use more conversational alternatives to phrases such as conducive environment and attest to your academic potential.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy
Complex and simple structures are combined flexibly and accurately, with punctuation and sentence control maintained throughout.
Preserve this accuracy while varying the rhythm with occasional shorter sentences for a more natural personal voice.
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IELTS General Training Writing Task 1
Write a letter to your friend. In your letter:
- give details of the course you took at the university
- explain why you recommend the university
- give some advice about how to apply
Your response
Write the task yourself, then compare your choices with the annotated response.