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Model answer

General Training Task 1 model answer 15: Volunteering to teach overseas

A high band model answer to a real General Training Task 1 question, with the task it answers. 20 minutes, at least 150 words.

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This is a model answer to a real General Training Task 1 question. Read the task first, write your own answer, and only then read the model. Reading it first tells you very little about your own writing.

A model answer shows you the target. It does not show you the gap between your answer and that target, which is why the band sample answers with corrections are worth reading alongside it.

The task

The General Training Task 1 question

Write your own answer before reading the model.

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

You have seen an advertisement looking for volunteers to teach English overseas.

Write to the recruitment office. In your letter

  • Tell them where you saw the advertisement
  • Explain why you would like to go
  • Describe the skills that you have that you think would help

You do NOT need to write any addresses.

Begin your letter as follows:

Dear…

Write at least 150 words.

The answer

The General Training Task 1 model answer

Written at the length the test actually asks for.

Dear Sir or Madam,

I am writing with regards the voluntary position advertised recently in The Herald newspaper, looking for people able and willing to teach overseas.

I have recently graduated from university and am looking for rewarding and fulfilling temporary work before I apply for positions related to my studies, and I think the vacancy you have would be ideal for me.

I feel that I would be able to contribute to the position as I have some teaching experience already and I am a native English speaker. I have also worked with various different levels and abilities of student so would have no difficulty adapting to the requirements of the job.

I would be very interested in putting my name forward, and would like some additional information regarding the role, specifically the exact dates and any additional costs that I may need to pay.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Yours faithfully,

J. Massey

156 words

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