Informal letter of advice (IELTS General writing task 1)

 An English-speaking friend is coming to study in your town next year and has written asking for information and advice

Write a letter to your friend.

In your letter:

- offer to find place for him/her to live

- give advive about how to find a part-time job

- give information on where they can learn your language

Begin your letter as follows: Dear ....,

You should write at least 150 words

Vocabulary:

1. Stoked - (adjective) very excited or enthusiastic
2. Rad - (adjective) excellent, awesome
3. Crash - (verb) informal term for finding a place to live
4. Pad - (noun) a place to live, usually an apartment or house
5. Budget - (noun) the amount of money available or allocated for a particular purpose
6. Hustle and bustle - (idiom) the busy and noisy activity of a crowded place
7. CBD - (abbreviation) Central Business District, the commercial and business center of a city
8. Outskirts - (noun) the outer parts or edges of a town or city
9. Residential areas - (noun) areas where people live, typically characterized by houses and apartments
10. Laid-back - (adjective) relaxed and easy-going
11. Suburbs - (noun) residential areas located on the outskirts of a city, often characterized by a mix of housing and green spaces
12. Sweet spot - (idiom) an ideal or perfect situation or condition
13. Part-time - (adjective) involving or working only a portion of a person's time or hours
14. Gigs - (noun) informal term for jobs or work opportunities
15. Classifieds - (noun) advertisements for goods or services, usually listed in a newspaper or online platform
16. Treasure troves - (noun) a place or source of great wealth, value, or resources
17. Networking - (noun) the process of making contacts and building relationships with others for professional or social purposes
18. Immersive - (adjective) providing a deep and surrounding experience, often involving active participation
19. Linguistic - (adjective) relating to language or linguistics
20. Melting pot - (noun) a place where people from different cultures or backgrounds come together and merge
21. Cosmopolitan - (adjective) having a diverse or international character, often associated with a city
22. Amenities - (noun) convenient features or services that enhance comfort or convenience
23. Facilities - (noun) buildings, equipment, or services provided for a particular purpose
24. Navigate - (verb) to find one's way or plan a course through a difficult or unfamiliar situation
25. Reunite - (verb) to come together again after being apart
26. Epic - (adjective) grand, impressive, or heroic in scale or character
27. Embark - (verb) to start or undertake a journey or project
28. Brace yourself - (idiom) to prepare yourself mentally or emotionally for something difficult or challenging

Ideas for the Letter:

1. Offer to find a place for him/her to live:

   • Mention your willingness to assist in finding suitable accommodation.
   • Provide options based on preferences and budget.
   • Offer to check rental listings, contact real estate agents, or connect with current students for housing recommendations.
   • Example: "I'll reach out to a few real estate agents to get a sense of available rentals that match your preferences. I can also connect with some fellow students who might know of any vacant rooms or shared apartments in the area."

2. Give advice about how to find a part-time job:

   • Suggest online job platforms and local classifieds as starting points.
   • Encourage networking within student groups and organizations.
   • Recommend visiting local establishments and directly inquiring about job openings.
   • Example: "You can explore online job platforms like XYZ.com or keep an eye on the local classifieds in the town's newspaper. Additionally, joining student clubs or organizations at your university can open doors to job opportunities. Don't forget to visit cafes, shops, and restaurants in person, as they sometimes have job openings specifically for students."

3. Give information on where they can learn your language:

   • Mention language schools or institutes in the area that offer language courses.
   • Suggest language exchange sessions with locals to enhance language skills.
   • Emphasize the benefits of immersing oneself in the local community.
   • Example: "There are reputable language schools like ABC Language Institute in town that provide comprehensive language courses. However, if you prefer a more immersive and informal approach, we can arrange language exchange sessions with native speakers. This way, you'll not only learn the language but also make connections within the local community."

4. Highlight the vibrant aspects of your town:

   • Describe the cultural diversity and cosmopolitan atmosphere.
   • Mention attractions, events, or festivals that make the town unique.
   • Discuss the amenities, facilities, and opportunities available.
   • Example: "Our town is known for its cultural diversity and vibrant cosmopolitan atmosphere. We have annual festivals like the International Food Festival and the Town Carnival, where you can experience various cuisines and traditions from around the world. Moreover, we boast excellent facilities, including modern libraries, sports centers, and recreational parks for you to enjoy."

5. Offer support and further assistance:

   • Express willingness to answer any additional questions.
   • Reiterate your availability for help or guidance throughout their transition.
   • Example: "If you have any more questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out to me. I understand that moving to a new place can be challenging, so don't hesitate to lean on me for support. I'm here to make your transition as smooth as possible."

Remember, these are just ideas and examples. Feel free to personalize the letter based on your own experiences and knowledge of your town.

Sample answer. Band 9:

Dear John,

Hey there! I hope this letter finds you in high spirits and buzzing with excitement for your upcoming adventure! I was stoked to hear that you'll be joining us in our vibrant town to pursue your studies next year. Trust me, you're gonna love it here! I'm more than happy to lend a hand and provide you with all the info and advice you need.

Let's start with finding a rad place for you to crash. No worries, my friend, I've got you covered! I'll do my utmost to help you score the perfect pad that suits your style and budget. If you're up for the hustle and bustle of city life, the CBD is where it's at. But if you prefer a more laid-back vibe, the outskirts or residential areas might be right up your alley. We can also explore the suburbs, which offer a great balance between convenience and tranquility. Just let me know your preferences, and I'll set out on a mission to find you a sweet spot.

Now, let's tackle the part-time job hunt. Money matters, right? The good news is, our town has plenty of opportunities for students like us. To start, check out online job platforms and local classifieds—they're treasure troves of part-time gigs. But don't stop there! Hit up cafes, shops, and restaurants in person. Sometimes, they're on the lookout for extra hands, and showing your friendly face can make all the difference. Networking is key, my friend!

When it comes to learning our language, you're in luck. We've got a range of awesome options for you. If you prefer a structured approach, there are language schools and institutes in town that can take your language skills to new heights. On the other hand, if you fancy a more immersive and informal experience, we can organize language exchange sessions with locals. It's a fantastic way to pick up colloquial expressions and connect with the community. Embrace the linguistic adventure!

I can't wait for you to join us in this vibrant metropolis. You'll find a melting pot of cultures and a bustling cosmopolitan vibe. Of course, like any city, there are some challenges, such as traffic congestion and pollution, but the amenities and facilities here make it all worth it. Don't worry, we'll navigate the pressures of city life together.

If you have any more questions or need further assistance, don't hesitate to reach out. Get ready for an amazing journey in our town!

Take care, buddy!

Yuri.

Sample answer Band 8

Dear John,

Hope this letter finds you in high spirits and doing fantastic! I was absolutely stoked to hear the news that you'll be joining us in our town for your studies next year. I can't wait to have you here and show you all the incredible spots!

First things first, let's talk about finding the perfect place for you to call home. No worries, my friend! You can count on me to help you scout the ideal pad that matches your style and budget. If you prefer a vibrant city vibe, I recommend checking out the trendy downtown area. However, if you're more into a peaceful neighborhood with beautiful parks, the outskirts of town might be your jam. Just let me know your preferences, and I'll dig into the local housing market to find the best options for you.

Now, let's dive into the part-time job hunt, because we both know a little extra cash is always handy. Besides the popular online job boards and local classifieds, another fantastic option is to tap into the student network. Joining student groups and organizations at your university can lead to valuable connections and job opportunities. Additionally, swinging by our favorite hangouts like cafes, shops, and restaurants in person is a brilliant move. They often have their ear to the ground for student-friendly positions, and your friendly face might just seal the deal!

When it comes to immersing yourself in our language, get ready for an adventure! We've got some top-notch language schools right here in town. If you're up for a more laid-back approach, we can even organize language exchange sessions with the locals. They're a friendly bunch, and you'll pick up the local lingo in no time, trust me!

I'm beyond excited to reunite with you and embark on epic adventures together! If you have any questions or need a hand with anything, don't hesitate to drop me a message. Brace yourself for an unforgettable time in our town!

Take care, buddy!

Yuri

Band 9

Dear John,

I hope this letter finds you absolutely psyched and pumped up! I couldn't contain my excitement when I heard the amazing news that you're gonna be joining us in our kickass town next year to pursue your studies. Seriously, dude, it's gonna be epic having you around, and I can't wait to show you all the mind-blowing stuff this place has in store!

So, first things first, let's talk about finding you the ultimate crib. No worries, my friend, I've got your back. I'll go all out to help you scout the raddest pad that totally matches your style and fits your budget like a glove. You just gotta let me know what kind of scene you're into. If you're all about that downtown buzz and want to soak up the vibrant city vibes, I suggest checking out the hippest areas in the heart of town. But hey, if you're more into chill vibes and picturesque parks, the outskirts might be your jam. Just give me the deets, and I'll hook you up with the sickest options out there.

Now, let's get down to the nitty-gritty of finding a sick part-time gig. 'Cause, let's be real, a bit of extra cash is always a good thing. Besides the usual online job boards and local classifieds, there's another killer move you can pull—tap into the student grapevine. Joining student groups and clubs at your uni can lead you to some awesome connections and job opportunities. And don't forget to hit up our favorite hangouts—cafes, shops, and restaurants—in person. Sometimes they're on the lookout for cool peeps like us, and your friendly face might just seal the deal!

When it comes to immersing yourself in our language, get ready for a wild ride, my friend! We've got some rad language schools in town that can take your linguistic game to a whole new level. But hey, if you're up for a more laid-back approach, we can always set up some language exchange sessions with the locals. They're super chill and friendly, and you'll be picking up the local lingo in no time. Trust me on that!

I'm seriously stoked for our epic reunion and all the crazy adventures that await us! If you've got any questions or need a hand with anything, just hit me up. Get ready to rock this town like there's no tomorrow!

Take care, buddy!

Yuri

Sample answer:

Dear Marybeth,

I trust this message finds you in great spirits. The prospect of your forthcoming academic journey in my hometown next year is truly exhilarating. On a personal note, I've already apprised my mother of your impending arrival, and she has, in her customary warmth, initiated plans for a sumptuous dinner at a local restaurant. You'll soon discover that resisting her invitation is simply out of the question.

I'm reaching out to you with a wholehearted offer of assistance in securing suitable accommodation. Given the vast and vibrant nature of my hometown, replete with multifarious neighborhoods, the choice of residence is a critical one. Surely, you'd prefer to avoid inhabiting a modest condominium marred by lackluster amenities, especially considering the city's extravagant backdrop. Similarly, you'd want to steer clear of the harried throngs of daily commuters during rush hour, ensuring your student life is not dominated by interminable bus or train journeys. In this regard, I am uniquely positioned to guide you through this intricate process, offering you invaluable advice and my personal expertise.

As a delightful aside, I currently find myself gainfully employed at the local zoo, an opportunity I consider unparalleled. My work involves caring for the sea otters housed in the adjacent aquarium. To my surprise, these charming creatures seem to share a telepathic connection with me, especially when I contemplate a post-dinner siesta. It's as though they intuitively sense my desire for a brief reprieve and respond in a playful manner until I offer them additional snacks. Coincidentally, my colleague, Mr. Gerrard, is set to retire next week, creating a vacancy for his position. If you share an affinity for animals and an absence of allergies, I would be delighted to endorse your CV to my supervisor. However, should this not align with your preferences, there's a remarkable online resource known as Jobbankforstudents.com, where you can seamlessly discover part-time employment opportunities tailored to your criteria.

On the topic of language enhancement, despite your impressive fluency in English, I imagine a desire to elevate your proficiency even further. Allow me to acquaint you with the notion of "language cafes," where language enthusiasts convene at the Government's Library in the heart of the city. This not only offers an avenue for linguistic growth but also facilitates interaction with like-minded individuals who share your curiosity and zest for learning.

Should you harbor further inquiries or require any form of support, please do not hesitate to reach out. I eagerly await your response.

Warm regards, Kirill