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CELPIP Writing Task 1: Writing an Email

CELPIP Writing Task 1 Sample Answer: Request for Clearer Volunteer Scheduling and Communication Improvements

By Rita

You have recently started volunteering at a local community center. However, you have noticed several problems with how volunteer schedules are organized and communicated. You decide to write an email to the volunteer…

Time
27 minutes
Length
150–200 words
Tone
Formal or semi-formal, depending on the reader

The question

You have recently started volunteering at a local community center. However, you have noticed several problems with how volunteer schedules are organized and communicated. You decide to write an email to the volunteer coordinator explaining these issues and asking for improvements. Be sure to address the following points in your email:

State when you began volunteering and what you do there.

-Describe the scheduling or communication issues you have experienced.

-Explain how these issues affect you and possibly other volunteers.

-Request specific improvements or a clearer process.

-Offer to meet or discuss further if needed.

Excellent answer: around CLB 11–12

Dear Ms. Thompson, I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to address a few concerns related to the scheduling and communication procedures for volunteers. Over the past month, I have thoroughly enjoyed assisting with the after-school tutoring sessions, yet I have encountered repeated confusion about my assigned shifts. On multiple occasions, I have received conflicting schedules from different staff members, leading to uncertainty over my volunteer hours. Additionally, my recent email requesting a minor change to my shift went unanswered, which made it challenging to adjust my personal commitments. This lack of clear communication not only affects volunteers like myself but also impacts the students, who benefit most from having consistent, well-prepared mentors. I would greatly appreciate a standardized, up-to-date volunteer schedule, as well as a more reliable communication channel—perhaps a single online platform where shifts and announcements are posted in real time. If it would help to talk through these suggestions in person, I would be happy to meet at your earliest convenience. Thank you for your attention, and I look forward to hearing your thoughts. Sincerely, [Your Name]

183 words

Good answer: around CLB 7–8

Dear Ms. Thompson, I hope you are doing well. I am writing to share some challenges I have experienced since I began volunteering at the community center three weeks ago. Although I value the opportunity to mentor children in the after-school reading program, the current system for scheduling and communication has created some difficulties. For example, I often receive conflicting information regarding which days I am supposed to volunteer. This has led to situations where I arrive and there are already too many volunteers, or else I end up being the only person available for a large group of children. In addition, when I emailed you last week about changing my volunteer hours, I did not receive any response. I would be grateful if you could implement a clearer, regularly updated schedule. It might also help to have a shared online calendar or group email list so everyone stays informed. I am available to discuss these suggestions further in person at your convenience. Thank you for your time and understanding. Warm regards, [Your Name]

174 words

Basic answer: around CLB 4–5

Dear Ms. Thompson, I am writing to let you know about some problems I have encountered since I started volunteering at the community center last month. I enjoy helping with the after-school program, but the schedule is often unclear. Many volunteers, including me, are unsure about our assigned days and responsibilities. I also tried to contact you last week about changing my volunteer day, but I did not hear back. This has caused confusion and made it difficult for me to plan my time. A few other volunteers have mentioned having the same problem. Could you please provide a clear schedule for our shifts and a reliable way to reach you with questions? I believe these steps would make volunteering easier for everyone. If possible, I would like to meet with you on Monday to discuss the details further. Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to hearing from you soon. Sincerely, [Your Name]

158 words

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

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