Task 1

Spend 20 minutes on this task. Imagine you have ordered a book online for your upcoming vacation. However, when the package arrived, you discovered that the book inside was not the one you ordered. Write a letter to the customer service department of the online bookstore where you made the purchase. In your letter, you should:

- Explain the situation, including the name of the book you received and the one you originally ordered.
- Describe why the correct book is important for you to have for your vacation.
- Request specific action to be taken to correct the mistake.
- Ask how to return the wrong book that was sent to you.

You should write at least 150 words.

Answers and Tips

Task 1

Band 5 Example Answer:

Dear Customer Service,

My name is Alex Tanner. I ordered a book from your store for my vacation. The book I wanted is "Beachside Stories". But I got a different book. The one I got is called "Mountain Climbing Basics".

I need "Beachside Stories" for my trip to the beach. It's perfect for relaxing by the sea. I was looking forward to reading it. Now I am sad because I have the wrong book.

Please send me the right book fast. I am leaving for my vacation in one week. I need it before I go. Also, tell me how to send back this mountain book. I don't need it.

Thank you for fixing this.

Alex Tanner

Band 7 Example Answer:

Dear Customer Service Team,

I am writing to inform you about a mix-up with a book order I placed on your website. I ordered "The Art of Travel" by Alain de Botton, but instead, I received "Cooking with Flowers" by Miche Bacher.

I specifically chose "The Art of Travel" because my vacation is coming up, and this book is meant to be my companion for the trip. It's about finding joy and beauty in the travel experience, and I was looking forward to reading it as I explore new places.

Could you please arrange to send me the correct book as soon as possible? My vacation starts in just over a week, and I would love to have it by then. Also, please let me know how I should go about returning the incorrect book you've sent me. I would appreciate instructions on whether there is a return label or if any shipping costs are covered.

Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter. I am looking forward to your quick response and resolution.

Best regards,
Jamie Patterson

Band 9 Example Answer:

Dear Customer Service Team,

I am writing to address an error with a recent order I placed on your website. My order number is #4567XY, and I had purchased "The Lighthouse Keeper" by Emma Davies. Unfortunately, upon the arrival of the package today, I found that I had received "The Mountain Shadow" by Gregory David Roberts instead.

The correct book, "The Lighthouse Keeper," holds particular significance for me as it was highly recommended by a close friend for its inspirational themes, which resonate deeply with my current life situation. I was looking forward to reading it during my vacation next week, a time I have set aside for personal reflection and relaxation. Having the right book is essential for my planned retreat to the seaside, where I intend to immerse myself in its narrative.

I kindly request that you expedite the delivery of the correct book to ensure it arrives before my departure date, which is in five days. If necessary, I am willing to cover any additional shipping costs for the swift resolution of this matter.

Furthermore, please advise on the process for returning the incorrect book. Should I expect a prepaid return label, or is there another preferred method for sending it back to you?

I appreciate your prompt attention to this issue and look forward to a quick resolution. Thank you for your assistance.

Warm regards,
Evelyn Harper

Useful expressions and vocabulary for Task 1:

1. Discrepancy (noun): A difference or inconsistency between two things that should match. Like receiving a different item than what you ordered online.
2. Rectify (verb): To correct or fix an error or problem. Similar to adjusting a misaligned picture on the wall.
3. Essential (adjective): Extremely important or absolutely necessary. Like having a passport for international travel.
4. Expedite (verb): To speed up a process or action. Similar to requesting express delivery for an urgent package.
5. Prepaid return label (noun phrase): A pre-paid postage label for returning items by mail without additional cost.
6. Inconvenience (noun): Difficulty or disturbance caused by a problem. Like a delayed flight disrupting your travel plans.
7. Anticipate (verb): To expect or predict something in advance. Like preparing for rain when clouds appear.
8. Compensation (noun): Something given to make up for a loss or damage, often money. Like receiving a refund for a cancelled service.
9. Confirmation number (noun phrase): A unique code used to verify a transaction or booking. Similar to a ticket number for a flight reservation.
10. Assurance (noun): A guarantee or promise. Like a warranty for a new appliance.
11. Immediate attention (noun phrase): Urgent consideration or action needed. Like requiring quick medical care after an accident.
12. Dispatch (verb): To send something to a specific place or person. Like mailing a letter at the post office.
13. Follow-up (noun): Additional action or inquiry after an initial interaction. Like a customer service call after a repair.
14. Resolution (noun): A solution or outcome that resolves a problem. Like reaching an agreement in a dispute.
15. Defective (adjective): Not working properly or flawed. Like a new phone that won’t turn on.

Tips:

1. Clearly state the problem: Right off the bat, tell the customer service what went wrong. Mention the name of the book you got by mistake and the one you were supposed to receive. This is like giving them a map so they know exactly where the mix-up happened.

2. Share your disappointment: Let them know why getting the right book matters so much. Maybe you were super excited to read it while chilling on the beach or during a long flight. This helps them understand it's not just a book, but a part of your happy vacation plans.

3. Be clear about what you want: Ask them nicely but firmly to send the correct book quickly. It's like when you order a pizza and they get your toppings wrong – you'd want the right pizza delivered, right? Tell them you need it in time for your trip!

4. Inquire about the return process: Politely ask how you should send back the wrong book. It's kind of like asking for directions to return something you borrowed – you want to make sure you do it the right way.

5. Keep it polite and friendly: Even though it's a mix-up, use your manners. Saying please and thank you can go a long way, just like when you're asking for an extra scoop of ice cream. Being nice might even get you better, faster help!

Task 2

Band 5 Example Answer:

Home teaching for kids is getting popular. Some parents think it is good. They can watch their kids and what they learn. Kids can sleep more and not wake up early for school. They can also be safe from bullies. Parents can teach what they think is important. Like if they want their kid to be good at math, they can do more math.

But there are also not good things. Kids might not make many friends. It is fun to play with other kids at school. If parents work, it is hard to teach at home. They need time to do their job. And some parents might not know all things to teach. Like science can be hard.

I know a family, the Martins, they teach their kid, Lucas, at home. They like it because they travel a lot. Lucas learns about different places. But Lucas told me he misses having friends from school. So, it is good and bad.

I think it depends on the family. If they can teach well and the kid is happy, it is good. But if the kid is lonely or the parents can't teach everything, it might be better to go to school. Schools have teachers for all subjects and kids to be friends with. So, teaching kids at home has good and bad sides.

Band 7 Example Answer:

Teaching kids at home, also known as homeschooling, is an option that many families are now picking. It has its good sides and bad sides, just like anything else.

One of the good things about homeschooling is that children can learn at their own speed. For example, if a kid is really good at math, they can move faster and not wait for others. Also, parents can make sure their kids are learning things that they think are important. Plus, kids might not get sick as often because they are not around so many other kids all the time.

But, there are also some not-so-good things about teaching kids at home. Kids might not get to make as many friends because they are not with other kids all day at school. This can make them feel lonely or not know how to act with others. Also, parents have to spend a lot of time teaching, and they might not know everything about what to teach.

I know a family, the Martins, who teach their two kids at home. They like it because they travel a lot and can take their school with them. But they also told me it's hard sometimes because they have to find different ways to help their kids meet and play with other kids.

In the end, teaching kids at home can be great for some families, but it's not perfect. It's important for parents to think about what's best for their kids and their whole family before they decide.

Band 9 Example Answer:

Home education, a practice that has been gaining traction in recent years, is often lauded for its flexibility and personalized approach. As someone who has witnessed a close friend, Maya, embark on this journey with her children, I have had the opportunity to observe the myriad of advantages and challenges that come with homeschooling.

One of the most significant benefits of teaching kids at home is the ability to tailor the educational experience to a child's individual learning style and pace. Unlike the one-size-fits-all approach that is sometimes evident in traditional schooling systems, homeschooling allows for a bespoke curriculum that can adapt to a child's needs and interests. Maya often shares with me how her son, who struggled with reading in a conventional classroom, flourished once she began to incorporate his love for nature into reading activities.

Moreover, homeschooling can foster a deeper familial bond as parents actively engage in their children's learning processes. This involvement can lead to a more cohesive family unit, where education becomes a shared family journey. Additionally, the flexibility of homeschooling can accommodate varied schedules and can be particularly beneficial for families who travel frequently or have unconventional work hours.

However, homeschooling does not come without its drawbacks. Socialization, or rather the lack thereof, is a common concern. Children who are taught at home may miss out on the social learning that occurs naturally in a school environment, such as teamwork, competition, and exposure to diverse perspectives. Maya has had to make a concerted effort to involve her children in community sports and local clubs to mitigate this issue.

Another challenge is the considerable commitment required from parents, both in time and resources. Not all families have a parent who can stay home to teach, nor do they have access to the necessary educational materials or environments conducive to effective learning.

In my view, homeschooling can be a profoundly enriching experience for children when executed with careful planning and consideration of its potential pitfalls. It is not a path for every family, but for those who can navigate its challenges, the rewards can be substantial. My observations of Maya's family have shown me that with dedication and creativity, homeschooling can indeed be a viable and successful educational alternative.

Useful expressions and vocabulary for Task 2:

1. Homeschooling (noun) - Teaching children at home instead of at a regular school. It's like having school lessons in your living room.
2. Customized learning (noun phrase) - Making lessons that fit what you like and how you learn best. It's like choosing your favorite subjects to study more about.
3. One-on-one attention (noun phrase) - When a teacher can focus on just one student. It's like having a teacher just for yourself.
4. Self-paced (adjective) - Learning at your own speed. If something is easy, you can move faster, or slow down if it's hard.
5. Socialization (noun) - Meeting and spending time with other people, especially other kids. It's like making friends and playing together.
6. Curriculum (noun) - All the subjects and lessons you learn in school. It's like a big plan for what you'll learn each year.
7. Flexibility (noun) - Being able to change things easily. In homeschooling, you might be able to choose when you have lessons.
8. Extracurricular activities (noun phrase) - Fun things you do besides regular schoolwork, like sports or music.
9. Independent learning (noun phrase) - Learning things by yourself without much help. It's like figuring out how to solve a puzzle on your own.
10. Isolation (noun) - Being alone a lot. Sometimes homeschooling can feel lonely if you don't see other kids often.
11. Structured environment (noun phrase) - A place where things are organized and there are rules, like in a regular school.
12. Peer interaction (noun phrase) - Spending time and doing things with other kids. It's like playing or studying together.
13. Academic performance (noun phrase) - How well you do in school subjects. It's like getting grades or scores on your work.
14. Learning style (noun phrase) - The way you learn best. Some kids like to see things, others like to listen, and some like to do things hands-on.
15. Regulations (noun) - Rules that you need to follow. Homeschooling has rules about what you need to learn.

Tips:

1. Break down the question: First, understand what you're being asked. Separate the question into two parts: the good things and the bad things about teaching kids at home. Make sure you address both sides in your essay.

2. Brainstorm your ideas: Take a moment to jot down all your thoughts. What do you think could be great about homeschooling? What might be not so great? You don't need to use all your ideas, but it's good to have options to choose from.

3. Structure your essay: Organize your essay with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Start by introducing the topic, then have at least one paragraph about the good points and one about the bad points, and finish with a summary of your opinions.

4. Use personal experiences: If you or someone you know has been homeschooled, talk about it! Personal stories make your essay more interesting and can show that you really know what you're talking about.

5. Proofread your work: Always check your essay when you're done. Look for any grammar mistakes or places where you might have gone off-topic. Make sure your essay is easy to read and that you have answered the question fully.