General Training Task One: Letter phrases

In the General Training module, the Task One is always a letter.  You need to be able to use letter writing phrases correctly. You should also remember the following:

• You need to use the correct tone.  Usually, the letters are formal (to someone you don't know) but occasionally, there is a letter to a friend and in that case, you can use less formal language.
• There are three bullet points.  You must cover all the points and you should write more or less the same amount on each one.  Use the bullet points to structure your letter - one paragraph for each bullet point.
• As well as the three paragraphs for the bullet points, you have one paragraph at the beginning to introduce the subject and one paragraph at the end to close the letter.
• Be very clear - the most important part of this Task is that the person receiving your letter would understand clearly what you want to say.

Letter writing phrases

Starting

• I am writing to confirm that/ask about/enquire about/apologize for/complain about/inform you that
• I am writing regarding/with regard to
• I am interested in

Making a request

• I would appreciate it if you could
• Could you please
• I would be grateful if you could

Giving good news 

• I am pleased to tell you/inform you that
• I am delighted to tell you/inform you that

Giving bad news 

• Unfortunately,
• I am afraid that
• I regret to tell you that

Apologizing

• I would like to apologize for
• I am sorry for
• Please accept my apologies.

Complaining

• I would like to express my unhappiness about
• I am dissatisfied with

Offering help 

• I would be happy to
• Would you like me to ?
• I would be willing to

Enclosing documents

• Please find enclosed
• I am enclosing

Closing 

• Thank you for your help.
• Thank you for your understanding.
• If you have any further questions, please let me know.
• I look forward to seeing you/hearing from you soon.
• I look forward to your reply

TASK

Write letters for the following questions: