Read the following Writing Task 1 prompt and then complete Practice 1.
Writing Task 1 (Formal)
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
You recently bought a product from a store, but it turned out to be faulty. Write a letter to the store manager to report the issue. In your letter:
- Describe the product.
- Explain the problem with it.
- Say what you want the store to do about it.
Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir or Madam,
Exercise 1
Read the following answer and try to find 3 errors in the use of cohesive devices that might confuse examiners or reduce clarity.
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to report a problem with a wireless product I purchased from your store on January 15th.
The product is a Sony wireless Bluetooth speaker model XB450, and because I was initially impressed with its design and specifications, it has unfortunately not performed as expected.
The main issue with the speaker is that it frequently disconnects from devices, even if they are within range. Also, the sound quality deteriorates intermittently, with a crackling noise that disrupts playback. I have followed all the instructions provided in the manual, although the problem persists.
To resolve this matter, I would like you to replace the faulty speaker or provide a full refund. I have attached a copy of the receipt for your reference and am ready to return the product at your earliest convenience.
Thank you for your attention to this matter. Kindly, let me know how I should proceed.
Yours sincerely,
Mike Espie
Errors in Cohesive Devices:
- "because" in paragraph 2 is used incorrectly; it should be "while" or "although" to contrast the positive impression with the product's poor performance.
- "even if" in paragraph 3 is incorrect; it should be "even when" to indicate that the issue occurs despite proper conditions.
- "although" in paragraph 3 is a misuse; it should be "but" to convey contrast between following the manual and the problem persisting.
This correct version should be:
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to report a problem with a product I purchased from your store on January 15th.
The product is a Sony wireless Bluetooth speaker model XB450, and because while I was initially impressed with its design and specifications, it has unfortunately not performed as expected.
The main issue with the speaker is that it frequently disconnects from devices, even if when they are within range. Furthermore, the sound quality deteriorates intermittently, with a crackling noise that disrupts playback. I have followed all the instructions provided in the manual, although but the problem persists.
To resolve this matter, I would like you to replace the faulty speaker or provide a full refund. I have attached a copy of the receipt for your reference and am ready to return the product at your earliest convenience.
Thank you for your attention to this matter. Please let me know how I should proceed.
Yours sincerely,
Mike Espie
Cohesive Devices Highlighted:
- while - Contrastive device.
- unfortunately - Emphasizing tone.
- even when - Clarifying conditions.
- Furthermore - Adding additional information.
- that - Referring back to "noise."
- but - Contrast within the sentence.
- or - Providing options for resolution.
- at your earliest convenience - Temporal cohesion.
- Please - Polite imperative.
These cohesive devices enhance clarity, connection, and flow throughout the letter.