CELPIP Writing Course
Lesson 210 min
Examiners read dozens of responses per day. A well-structured email signals competence immediately — before they even evaluate your vocabulary or grammar. A rambling email signals the opposite.
The 5-part structure below is not a template to memorise. It is a decision framework you internalise.
One specific line identifying your topic.
| Wrong (vague) | Right (specific) |
|---|---|
| "Re: Problem" | "Re: Noise Complaint — Unit 4B, March 14th" |
| "Question" | "Question About Community Garden Schedule Changes" |
Determined entirely by relationship to recipient.
Rule: When in doubt, be more formal. CLB 7 candidates often under-formalize.
State your purpose in the first sentence. Not the second. The first.
Wrong: "I hope this email finds you well. My name is David Chen and I live in apartment 4B. I am writing about something that happened recently."
Right: "I am writing to report a recurring noise issue from the unit above mine that has significantly disrupted my sleep over the past two weeks."
The second version tells the examiner everything they need to know to evaluate Task Achievement — in one sentence.
One paragraph per prompt requirement. Three requirements = three paragraphs.
Length target: 40–55 words per paragraph at CLB 8. Long enough to be specific, short enough to stay on topic.
CLB 8 paragraph formula:
State the point → Specific detail → What you want
Three elements: thank the reader, say what you expect to happen, sign off appropriately.
Weak closing: "Thank you. Sincerely, Alex." Strong closing: "I appreciate your attention to this matter and look forward to hearing from you within the next few business days. Sincerely, Alex Kim."
Read this prompt: "Write an email to your friend recommending a restaurant you recently visited."
Before reading further, ask: What tone? What register? What salutation?
Answer: