CELPIP Writing Task 1: Writing an Email

CELPIP Writing Task 1 Sample Answer: Birthday Card for Your Colleague

You’re emailing your team to gather ideas/messages for a birthday card for your colleague, Priya, whose birthday is next Wednesday.

Time

27 minutes

Length

150–200 words

Tone

Formal or semi-formal, depending on the reader

The question

You’re emailing your team to gather ideas/messages for a birthday card for your colleague, Priya, whose birthday is next Wednesday.

Required Points:

-State the colleague’s name and birthday date

-Invite colleagues to contribute messages or jokes

-Provide deadline for submissions

-Explain how you’ll assemble/present the card

Excellent answer: around CLB 11–12

Dear Team, As you know, Priya’s turning another year wiser on Wednesday, July 2. I’m organizing a group card and would love your heartfelt wishes, funny memories, or light-hearted jokes to make it memorable. Please send your messages to me by Monday, June 30 at 5:00 PM. I’ll artfully compile and handwrite each note before presenting the card at our Wednesday team lunch. Thank you for helping celebrate Priya’s special day! Warm regards, [Your Name]

75 words

Good answer: around CLB 7–8

Dear Team, Just a reminder that Priya’s birthday is next Wednesday, July 2. I’d love to gather everyone’s messages, funny anecdotes, or well wishes to include in a group card. Please email me your contributions by Monday at 5:00 PM. I’ll compile all entries, handwrite them into the card, and present it to her at our team lunch. Thanks for helping make her day special! Best, [Your Name]

68 words

Basic answer: around CLB 4–5

Dear Team, Priya’s birthday is next Wednesday, July 2. Please send me a short message or joke by Monday so I can write in the card. I will collect all notes and give it to her on her birthday. Thanks! Cheers, [Your Name]

43 words

The CLBs are estimates of the level each sample was written at, not official CELPIP scores. How we estimate CLB