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CELPIP Writing Task 1: Writing an Email

CELPIP Writing Task 1 Sample Answer: Request for Personal Time Off

By Rita

You need a few days off from work for personal reasons. Write an email to your manager requesting personal time off.

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

The question

You need a few days off from work for personal reasons. Write an email to your manager requesting personal time off.

Explain why you need the time, how you’ll cover your duties, and when you plan to be away.

Excellent answer: around CLB 11–12

Dear Mr. Thompson, I’m writing to respectfully request personal leave from April 28 to April 30 to address a significant family commitment. Your approval would mean a great deal during this time. To support my family through a milestone event, I need these three days away. To ensure continuity, I’ll finalize all outstanding tasks, including client correspondence and weekly reports, by April 27. I’ve coordinated with Tom, who has kindly agreed to oversee my inbox and field urgent queries, and I’ll provide him with a detailed handover to guarantee seamless coverage. I’ll remain reachable for emergencies and will return on May 1, fully equipped to dive back into my role without delay. I’d be grateful for your confirmation and any guidance on formalities. Thank you for your empathy and for fostering a supportive workplace—I’m committed to maintaining our team’s momentum. Sincerely, Mia Wong

143 words

Good answer: around CLB 7–8

Dear Mr. Thompson, I’m reaching out to request personal time off from April 28 to April 30 to attend to a family matter. I appreciate your consideration of this request. To ensure a smooth workflow, I’ll complete all pending emails and project updates by April 27. I’ve arranged for Tom to monitor my inbox and handle any urgent inquiries during my absence, and I’ll brief him thoroughly beforehand. This plan should prevent any disruptions, and I’ll return on May 1 fully prepared to resume my responsibilities. The time off is necessary to support my family during an important event, and I’m committed to ensuring my duties are covered. Please let me know if you require additional details or adjustments. Thank you for your understanding and support. Regards, Mia Wong

129 words

Basic answer: around CLB 4–5

Dear Mr. Thompson, I’m writing to ask for a few days off work. I have some personal things to take care of. I need to be away from April 28 to April 30 to help my family with an important matter. I’ll make sure my work is done before I go. I’ll finish my emails and reports by April 27, and I’ll ask Tom to check my messages while I’m gone. I’ll be back on May 1, ready to work again. I hope this is okay with you. Please let me know if you need more information. Thank you for understanding. Best, Mia Wong

104 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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