CELPIP, Writing Task 1: Writing an Email
Wrong Online Grocery Order: 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.
- Task
- Writing an Email
- Time
- 27 minutes
- Answer length
- 160 words
- Written to
- Level 10 target
The question
Situation
You used an online grocery delivery service, but several items in your order were missing and some fresh produce was spoiled.
Task
Write an email to the grocery company in about 150-200 words. In your email:
- Give details of your order and the missing or spoiled items
- Explain what happened when you tried to report the problem
- State what you want the company to do
Sample answer
Linking words are highlighted: they show the structure a rater follows.
Dear Support Team,
I am writing to explain a recent issue and ask for your assistance. I used an online grocery delivery service, but several items in my order were missing and some fresh produce was spoiled. I expected the service to be reliable, so this situation has been disappointing.
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 checked my records and kept any receipts, reference numbers, or photos that may be useful.
Therefore, I would appreciate it if you could refund the missing items and replace the spoiled produce. 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
160 words
Why it works
What you can measure in this answer, and what CELPIP raters mark.
- The right length. 160 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.
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 160 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.
More Writing an Email sample answers
- Request For Apartment ViewingYou found an apartment advertisement online and are interested in renting it next month.
- Complaint About Repeated Power OutagesYour neighbourhood has experienced three short power outages this month, and you work from home using online meetings.
- Request For Community Garden PlotYour city offers small garden plots to residents. You want to apply for one this spring.
- Complaint About Incorrect Restaurant BillYou had dinner at a restaurant with friends, but the bill included several items your table did not order.
- Request For Mentor MeetingYou are new at work and would like advice from a senior colleague about developing your career in the company.
- Complaint About Parking Ticket ErrorYou received a parking ticket even though you had paid through the city parking app and still have the receipt.
Now try a writing an email question yourself
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