Task 1 · letter · 1 samples

You need to be away from home for several days. Write a letter to a neighbour you know. Explain why you will be away, ask them to look after something at your home, and explain how to contact you. Write at least 150 words.

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Plan your answer

Try your own response before reading the samples.

Ideas to explore

  • Explain the absence briefly.
  • Make a specific, limited request with practical instructions.
  • Give contact details without exposing a real personal number.

Suggested structure

  1. Use a polite personal greeting.
  2. Explain your plans and request.
  3. Give practical instructions.
  4. Explain contact arrangements and close.
Useful vocabulary & examples
look after
take care of someone or something

Could you look after my plants while I am away?

be away from home
stay somewhere else temporarily

I will be away from home for several days.

get in touch
contact someone

Please get in touch if you have any questions.

Sample answers

Target Band 9 · Original model answer

186 words · Illustrative target band

Dear Ms Taylor, I hope you are well. I will be away from Monday until Thursday next week to attend a training course in another city, and I wondered whether you could help me with a small favour while I am gone. Would you be able to water the plants on my balcony once, preferably on Tuesday evening? I have left a watering can beside the balcony door, and each pot needs only a little water. There is no need to look …

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