The purpose of informal letters in IELTS General Writing Task 1 is to assess your proficiency in everyday written communication, like offering advice, seeking suggestions, and extending invitations. Therefore, the best way to masterIELTS General Writing Task 1is to practice informal letter topics, like ‘Help with a College Project’ from Cambridge IELTS 18 General Training Test 1 and otherletter writing topicsandpractice tests.
Take a look at three sample answers on theinformal lettertopic ‘Help with a College Project’ to enhance your letter-writing skills and build confidence for the test, ranging from Band 7 to Band 9.
Question
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
Your English-speaking friend has asked for your help with a college project she is doing about celebrating New Year in different countries. Write a letter to your friend.
In your letter:
- Say how important New Year is to people in your country.
- Describe how New Year is celebrated in your country.
- Explain what you like about New Year celebrations in your country.
Write at least 150 words.
Outline
Type of Letter: Informal
Structure Breakdown:
Opening Salutation
- Begin your letter with a friendly greeting.
- Use the person’s name or surname (e.g., Hi Sarah, Dear John).
Body
- Paragraph 1: It should be a concise and clear introduction to the main topic.
- Start with a warm greeting and ask about the recipient’s well-being.
- Introduce the purpose of your letter briefly.
- Paragraph 2 & 3:
- Provide specific details or information related to the main topic.
- Use separate paragraphs for different points or topics.
- Share personal experiences, opinions, or suggestions.
Closing
- Express gratitude, well wishes, or any final thoughts.
- Close the letter on a positive note.
- Use a friendly closing salutation (e.g., Cheers, Take care).
- Sign off with your name or a nickname.
Check Out –How to Write an Informal Letter (Step-By-Step)
Band 7 Sample Answer for Writing Task 1 Question – Help with a College Project
Dear Luna
I am excited to learn about your project, which examines New Year’s celebrations around the globe. So, I will share the highlights of New Year’s celebrations in our country.
New Year holds a lot of significance in my country and it is reflected in the mood of the people and decoration on the streets and houses.
As the new year represents a new beginning, people usually offer their prayers to God for a prosperous year ahead. It is followed by cooking traditional meals at home, exchanging gifts and having fun. While elderly members stay back at home, young people might go out with friends depending on their plan. But, my favourite part of this celebration is meeting my extended family, enjoying various activities with them during the day and going out to eat at a restaurant in the evening.
Hope this will help you with your project.
With best regards,
Ron
Word Count – 153
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Band 8 Sample Answer for Writing Task 1 Question – Help with a College Project
Dear Hermione
I hope all is okay with you. I got your email asking for useful facts regarding how we celebrate the New Year in Korea.
It is evident that for Koreans, the New Year or Seollal celebration holds great significance. It is a three-day celebration when the majority of Korean families travel to see their family to make up for lost time. It is thought to be respectful to attend the holiday celebration since it is one of the few occasions when families are able to get together and catch up on one another’s life.
During the New Year, we participate in ancestral ceremonies, wear the hanbok, engage in traditional sports, and eat customary food like japchae, jeon, and tteokguk together. Receiving money from seniors after making a ceremonial bow is one of the most well-known habits in the modern day.
Visiting my grandparents and family home is the best part of the New Year for me. I get to play video games and interact with my cousins. Honestly, most of my favorite memories with my complete family are during New Year and I cherish them.
I hope you will find this information helpful. In case you have any questions, you can drop a mail.
With love
Yuni
Word Count – 209
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Band 9 Sample Answer for Writing Task 1 Question – Help with a College Project
Unlock Band 9 Answer
Dear Ruchi
I recently received your mail regarding the college project on different New Year’s customs around the globe. I would really like to share the celebration in Australia, where I am from.
The New Year holiday is like a sunny adventure for us. Family get-together is a must, as we usually don’t get to meet throughout the year because of hectic schedules. We enjoy barbecues and other traditional Australian cuisines like Pavlona. In addition, beach outings and watching the mesmerizing fireworks at midnight are definitely part of the New Year plan. So, all in all, we have a good time with family and friends, share gifts and have loads of food and fun on this special occasion.
What I like most about New Year is the outing with my family. We get to meet them in-person and have so much to share. Since I am the youngest member till now, I get pampered by everyone with lots of gifts. To me, this time of the year means good memories, excellent food and merrymaking.
I’m hoping my letter will be of use to you for your project. If you have any questions, I’m here to assist you in every way.
Best Regards
Dan
Word Count – 203
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Additional Resources
- How to End an Informal Letter to a Friend? – IELTS Writing Task 1
- You Recently Received a Letter from a Friend Asking for Advice
- IELTS General Writing Task 1 Samples
- Write a letter to your friend planning a weekend trip.
- You Have Recently Started Work in a New Company- Informal letter
- You are Studying English at a Private Language School- Informal Letter
- IELTS General Writing Task 1 Tips
