Cambridge IELTS 5 General Training Writing A — Adapted Practice

Dear James,

I was very shocked to get your letter saying that the noise from my flat has been spoiling your evenings and causing you some distress. I am really, really sorry about that. I had no idea that you would be able to hear so much, so I hope you will accept my apologies.

As you may have guessed, I am trying to refit my kitchen in the evenings when I get home from work. Unfortunately it is all taking longer than expected and I have been having problems with getting things to fit properly. This has meant a lot of banging and hammering.

As the kitchen is still not finished, I have decided to call in a professional builder who will finish the work in the next day or two. He'll work only during daytime hours, so you won't be disturbed in the evenings again, I promise.

Sorry to have caused these problems.

Bill.

Note: A good letter clearly explains the situation, offers a genuine apology, and states a specific action to resolve the issue.

To a large extent, I believe that children are given too much free time.

Free time in my opinion refers to time not spent under the direct supervision of a parent, teacher or a person entrusted with the responsibility of bringing up the child.

Such time is often spent on several things such as watching television, playing with friends, going to parties, doing home work, playing games on their own amongst others.

Amongst all of the above, a child could either be influenced by his or her peer group especially when left without attention or be influenced by what he or she watches on television most of which are those not meant to be viewed by the child's age group.

In my opinion, most of the formative years of a child should be spent doing school work, engaging in recreational activities that would develop the child emotionally and mentally. I believe this strongly because at a young age, a child is quick to grasp most of all that is seen or heard.

For instance, a child who is not used to doing more school work usually referred to as house work.

Supplied commentary (unverified): Addresses both ideas, position clear. Response is unfinished (underlength) so loses marks. Clear organisation, some sophisticated linking. Range of vocabulary and structures good with high level of control.