Task 1

Spend 20 minutes on this task. Imagine your friend told you about a job in their company that you think would be perfect for another friend of yours. Write a letter to this other friend to tell them about the job.

In your letter, you should:
- Say how you found out about the job and why you thought of them.
- Describe the job and why you think they would be good at it.
- Explain how this job could be good for their future.
- Tell them what they should do next if they are interested.
You should write at least 150 words.

Answers and Tips

Task 1

Band 5 Example Answer:

Dear Emily,

I heard about a job and I thought of you. My friend works at this company and they told me they need someone. I think you are perfect for it.

The job is for a graphic designer. You are good at drawing and computers. They need someone to make pictures and designs for websites and ads. You always do great art and know how to use design programs. That's why I thought you'd be good.

This job is a chance to do what you love and get paid. It can help you learn more and maybe lead to bigger jobs later. It's a good place to start and grow.

If you like this idea, you should make a CV and a portfolio of your art. Then you can apply. I can give you the details and help if you want.

Hope you think about it.

Cheers,
Alexandra

Band 7 Example Answer:

Dear Helena Carter,

I was chatting with my friend, Alex, who works at the GreenTech Solutions, and he mentioned a job opening that instantly made me think of you. Knowing your skills and interests, I believe you'd be the perfect fit for this role.

The position is for a Sustainability Coordinator, and it involves developing eco-friendly practices within the company. You'd also be working on projects that support the environment. With your background in environmental science and your passion for green initiatives, you'd shine in this job.

This opportunity could be a significant step for your career. It's a chance to work with a forward-thinking team and make a real impact on the company's environmental footprint. Plus, the experience you'd gain could open doors to even bigger roles in the future.

If this sounds as exciting to you as I think it will, you should definitely get your resume updated and send it over to Alex. I can also put in a good word for you. Let me know if you're interested, and I'll help in any way I can.

Best wishes,
Jessica Thompson

Band 9 Example Answer:

Dear Helena,

I recently caught up with our mutual friend, Amit Patel, who mentioned a vacancy at his company, and instantly, you sprang to mind. Knowing your passion for graphic design and your remarkable talent, I couldn't resist the urge to inform you about this opportunity.

The position is for a Senior Graphic Designer, focusing on digital marketing campaigns. From what Amit described, the role involves leading a creative team, conceptualizing and implementing design solutions that meet marketing strategies from concept to completion. I immediately thought of you because of your innovative approach and the successful projects you've spearheaded in the past, particularly your recent work on branding which was nothing short of impressive.

This job could be a significant stepping stone in your career. It not only aligns with your skills but also offers a platform to further hone your leadership abilities within a dynamic and forward-thinking company. The exposure to high-profile projects could open doors to even more advanced opportunities and establish you as a leader in the design community.

If this piques your interest, I would be more than happy to introduce you to Amit. He can provide a more detailed insight into the company culture and the role itself. Following that, if you feel inclined, I can help facilitate the submission of your portfolio to the hiring team.

Looking forward to hearing your thoughts on this exciting prospect.

Warm regards,
Lucas Moreno


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Useful expressions and vocabulary for Task 1:

1. Vacancy (noun): An open position or job opportunity. Similar to an available seat in a restaurant waiting to be filled.
2. Enthusiastically (adverb): Doing something with great excitement and interest. Like approaching a new project with positive energy.
3. Qualifications (noun): Skills or experiences required for a job. Like the necessary credentials for a specific role.
4. Recommendation (noun): A suggestion that someone or something is suitable for a particular task or role. Like suggesting a colleague for a promotion based on their performance.
5. Prospects (noun): Potential for future success or advancement. Like career opportunities that may arise from additional training.
6. Networking (noun): Building professional relationships to enhance career opportunities. Like attending industry events to meet potential employers.
7. Apply (verb): To formally request or seek a position or opportunity. Like submitting a job application with a resume and cover letter.
8. Expertise (noun): Specialized knowledge or skills in a particular field. Like being proficient in a foreign language or software program.
9. Initiative (noun): Taking the lead in starting something, often without being asked. Like proposing a new project idea to your manager.
10. Enquire (verb): To ask for information. Like contacting a company to ask about job openings.
11. Asset (noun): A valuable resource or quality. Like having strong communication skills in a team.
12. Submit (verb): To present something for consideration or review. Like submitting a report to your supervisor.
13. References (noun): Individuals who can vouch for your character and abilities. Like former employers who can confirm your work experience.
14. Flourish (verb): To grow or develop successfully. Like advancing in your career through hard work and dedication.
15. Touch base (expression): To make contact for a brief update. Like emailing a colleague to check the status of a project.

Tips:

1. Explain your connection to the job: Mention how you heard about the job from your friend and immediately thought of them. This shows that you know them well and think the job is a great fit for them, like finding the perfect puzzle piece!

2. Paint a picture of the job: Describe the job like you're telling them about an exciting adventure they could go on. Talk about what the job involves, the cool tasks they'd do, and why it's so interesting. It's like you're giving them a VIP tour of what could be their new work life!

3. Connect their skills to the job: List the reasons why you think they're the right person for the job, like they're a superhero and this job is their next mission. Maybe they're great at solving problems, talking to people, or they know a lot about the area the job is in.

4. Highlight the future perks: Tell them how this job could be a giant step up in their career, like climbing a ladder to the stars. Maybe it will help them learn new things, meet important people, or get them closer to their big dreams.

5. Give clear next steps: End by telling them exactly what they should do if they want to grab this chance. It could be to call someone, send an email, or update their resume. Make it sound as easy as following a treasure map to the X that marks the spot.

Task 2

Band 5 Example Answer:

Many people think having lots of money is key to happiness. They say with money you can buy a big house, nice car and go on holidays. They think money can give them what they want and make life easier. For example, if someone is sick, money can pay for good doctors.

But other people say happiness is not from money. They say it's from love, friends, and doing what you like. They think even if you have money, you can feel alone if you don't have friends or family. Like, a rich person might have no one to talk to and feel sad.

I believe true happiness is not just from money. I think it's from being with people you like and doing things that make you feel good inside. For example, I feel happy when I help my friends or spend time with my family. Even if I don't have much money, these moments make me feel rich in my heart.

Money is important for living but it's not everything. Happiness comes from many things that money can't buy. I have seen rich people who are not happy and people with less money who are very happy. It's about what you value in your heart.

Band 7 Example Answer:

Many folks believe that having lots of money is the key to being really happy. They think that with money, you can buy anything you want, like a big house, a fancy car, and go on fun trips. When you have lots of money, you don't have to worry about paying bills or not having enough food. This can make life less stressful and more enjoyable. For example, my neighbor, Mr. Patel, always seems cheerful because he can afford to buy new gadgets and take his family on holidays.

On the other hand, some people say that the best things in life are free and can't be bought. They talk about love, friendship, and good health. These people believe that being rich in relationships and experiences is more important than how much money you have. They find joy in simple things like a walk in the park, a good laugh with a friend, or a family meal. My friend Maria always says that her happiest moments are when she's playing games with her kids, not when she buys something new.

I think both sides have a point. Money is important because it helps us live comfortably and gives us chances to do things we enjoy. But I also believe that happiness is more than just what we own. I've seen rich people who are unhappy and poor people who are full of joy. For me, happiness comes from a mix of having enough money to feel secure and having loving people around. Like the time I was able to help my cousin Leo with his school fees. It made me happy to support him, and it wasn't about spending money, but about helping someone I care about.

In the end, I believe that while money can help make us happy, true happiness comes from love, health, and good relationships, which are things that money can't buy.

Band 9 Example Answer:

The debate on whether wealth equates to happiness has been a contentious topic for ages. On one hand, the allure of affluence is undeniable; it promises comfort, security, and the ability to indulge in life's luxuries. On the other hand, some argue that true contentment stems from intangible aspects of life, such as relationships, experiences, and personal fulfillment.

Proponents of wealth being a source of happiness emphasize the doors that money can open. With ample funds, one can afford better education, healthcare, and housing. For instance, my neighbor, Elena Rodriguez, was able to pursue her dream of becoming a veterinarian because her family could afford the tuition fees. Moreover, financial stability can alleviate stress related to bills and debts, allowing individuals to focus on personal growth and family. It's also worth noting that money can facilitate memorable experiences like travel, which can lead to a broader perspective and joy.

Conversely, there are countless stories and personal anecdotes that highlight the limitations of money in procuring happiness. It's often said that the best things in life are free, and this rings true when we consider the joy derived from a child's laughter, the satisfaction of helping others, or the peace found in nature. My own experience aligns with this perspective; the most cherished moments of my life involve family gatherings, heart-to-heart conversations with friends, and the sense of achievement after completing a challenging project. These experiences did not require vast sums of money but were priceless in their emotional value.

In my belief, while money can contribute to happiness by providing comfort and security, it is not the sole determinant. True happiness is multifaceted and often found in the richness of relationships, the pursuit of passions, and the ability to appreciate the simple joys of life. It is the balance between material wealth and emotional well-being that forms the bedrock of a truly contented life. As I have observed in my own community, those who strike this balance seem to radiate a deeper, more enduring form of happiness than those who chase wealth alone.

Useful expressions and vocabulary for Task 2:

1. Material wealth (noun phrase): Possessing a lot of expensive items. Like owning luxury items such as high-end cars and designer clothing.
2. Well-being (noun): A state of feeling healthy and content. Like experiencing a balanced life with good health and happiness.
3. Fulfillment (noun): A sense of satisfaction and achievement. Like the feeling after completing a challenging project at work.
4. Superficial (adjective): Focusing only on the surface or appearance. Like valuing a person only for their looks rather than their character.
5. Long-lasting (adjective): Enduring over a significant period. Like a lifelong friendship that remains strong for years.
6. Financial security (noun phrase): Having enough resources to live comfortably without financial worry. Like having savings that cover life's essentials and emergencies.
7. Inner peace (noun phrase): A feeling of calmness and contentment within oneself. Like the tranquility one feels after meditation or a relaxing walk in nature.
8. Extrinsic motivation (noun phrase): Being driven by external rewards. Like working overtime for a bonus or promotion.
9. Intrinsic satisfaction (noun phrase): Enjoyment derived from the activity itself, not from external rewards. Like painting or playing music for personal pleasure.
10. Consumerism (noun): The constant pursuit of buying and owning things. Like the rush to purchase the latest tech gadgets as soon as they're released.
11. Non-materialistic (adjective): Not placing importance on physical possessions. Like finding joy in experiences rather than owning the latest items.
12. Quality of life (noun phrase): The general well-being and happiness of a person. Like living in a comfortable home, having a fulfilling job, and enjoying good health.
13. Philanthropy (noun): Donating money or resources to help others. Like a businessperson funding scholarships or supporting community projects.
14. Gratification (noun): A feeling of pleasure or satisfaction. Like the contentment felt after helping someone in need.
15. Chase after (verb phrase): Actively pursuing something. Like relentlessly working towards career advancement or financial success.

Tips:

1. Organize your thoughts: First, write down the main ideas for both viewpoints. One side believes money can buy happiness, while the other thinks happiness comes from things money can't buy. Think of reasons why people might believe each side, and decide which side you agree with more.

2. Write a clear introduction: Begin your essay with a sentence that will catch the reader's attention. Then, explain what you're going to write about and what your own opinion is. This helps the reader know what to expect in your essay.

3. Support each point: When you talk about why some people think money makes them happy, give reasons and maybe a story about someone who feels this way. Do the same for the other side, explaining why some people find happiness without lots of money. Use examples that are easy to understand.

4. Share your view: After discussing both sides, it's important to clearly state what you believe. Explain why you feel this way and try to include a personal story or observation that shows your point of view. This makes your essay more personal and interesting.

5. Review and revise: After you finish writing, take time to read your essay again. Look for any spelling mistakes or sentences that are hard to understand. Make sure you've explained both sides and your own opinion. A good essay is easy to read and free from errors.