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CELPIP, Writing Task 1: Writing an Email

Complaint About Repeated Power Outages: sample answer

A model answer to this exam-style CELPIP writing an email question, written to a level 10 target. See the question, the full answer and exactly why it works, then try it yourself.

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Task
Writing an Email
Time
27 minutes
Answer length
164 words
Written to
Level 10 target

The question

Situation

Your neighbourhood has experienced three short power outages this month, and you work from home using online meetings.

Task

Write an email to the electricity provider in about 150-200 words. In your email:

  • Describe the situation or problem clearly
  • Explain how it affects you or others
  • State what action, information, or solution you would like

Sample answer

Linking words are highlighted: they show the structure a rater follows.

Dear Customer Care Team,

I am writing to ask for your help with a recent problem. My neighbourhood has experienced three short power outages this month, and I work from home using online meetings. The matter is time-sensitive, and leaving it unresolved may create additional costs.

I have tried to deal with the situation patiently, but it has not yet been resolved. Because of this, I am contacting you directly and asking for the matter to be reviewed. Good communication would make a big difference, especially because I need to know what will happen next.

I would appreciate it if you could investigate the outages and explain how they will be prevented. Please let me know if you need reference numbers or further details from me. Please respond by email within the next few business days so I can plan accordingly.

Thank you for taking the time to look into this. I hope the issue can be resolved quickly and fairly.

Sincerely, Alex Morgan

164 words

Why it works

What you can measure in this answer, and what CELPIP raters mark.

  • The right length. 164 words: inside the required 150–200, in 6 paragraphs.
  • Clear links between ideas: “because”. They make the answer easy to follow, which raters reward under coherence.
  • 6 paragraphs, each with its own job, so the reader can follow the answer at a glance.

How CELPIP marks writing an email

  • Content & CoherenceLevel 1–12

    Enough relevant ideas, organised clearly and supported with detail.

  • VocabularyLevel 1–12

    Words chosen precisely and appropriately for the topic.

  • ReadabilityLevel 1–12

    Paragraphing, linking words, grammar, spelling and punctuation.

  • Task FulfillmentLevel 1–12

    Answers every part, with the right tone and length.

Writing Task 1: Writing an Email guide Template Tips

Common questions

How many words should a CELPIP Writing Task 1: Writing an Email answer have?

The task asks for 150 to 200 words, written in 27 minutes. This sample is 164 words.

How is CELPIP Writing Task 1: Writing an Email scored?

CELPIP marks it on Content & Coherence, Vocabulary, Readability, Task Fulfillment, each on a Level 1 to 12 scale. Your result for the task comes from these together.

Is this a real CELPIP question?

No. It's an original, exam-style question written to match the official format. Nobody can legally publish real test questions.

Should I memorise this answer?

No. Use it to see the structure, length and linking words that work, then answer in your own words. Memorised answers rarely fit a new question and raters notice.

Where can I practice this question and get a score?

Open it on PrepScroll: record or type your own answer and get an instant estimated score on each CELPIP criterion, with what to fix. It's free to start.

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