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CELPIP, Writing Task 1: Writing an Email

Work Schedule Change Request: 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
154 words
Written to
Level 10 target

The question

Situation

Your employer has changed your shift schedule for next month. The new hours conflict with a family responsibility that you cannot change.

Task

Write an email to your supervisor in about 150-200 words. In your email:

  • Explain the schedule change and the conflict it creates
  • Describe why the family responsibility is important
  • Suggest an alternative schedule or solution

Sample answer

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

Dear Supervisor,

I am writing to explain a recent issue and ask for your assistance. My employer has changed my shift schedule for next month. The new hours conflict with a family responsibility that I cannot change. I understand that mistakes can happen, but I would appreciate a clear solution.

The problem has created inconvenience because I had already arranged my schedule around the original plan. It has also cost me extra time, and in some cases it may lead to additional expenses if it is not resolved soon. I have kept the relevant information so your office can investigate without delay.

Therefore, I would appreciate it if you could approve a temporary adjustment to my shifts. Please confirm the next steps by email within the next few business days. I can provide any documents, photos, or additional information that may help you investigate the situation.

Thank you for your attention.

Sincerely, Jordan Lee

154 words

Why it works

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

  • The right length. 154 words: inside the required 150–200, in 6 paragraphs.
  • Clear links between ideas: “therefore”, “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 154 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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