CELPIP Writing · samples with answers

CELPIP Writing Task 1 (Email) Samples with Answers

Below are CELPIP Writing Task 1 samples with model answers you can learn from. Each shows a realistic email prompt, a response written at a high band, and notes explaining why it scores. Task 1 gives you about 27 minutes to write 150–200 words that address every bullet in the prompt.

Practice Writing Task 1 free

Sample 1 — Complaint email

27 minutes · 150–200 words

Prompt

You recently bought a household appliance that stopped working after a week. Write an email to the store manager. In your email:

explain what you bought and when
describe the problem
say what you would like the store to do

Model answer — ~CELPIP 10

Dear Store Manager,

I am writing about a microwave oven I purchased from your King Street location on June 3. Although it worked at first, it stopped heating completely after only one week of normal use.

When I turn it on, the light and turntable still work, but the food comes out cold no matter how long it runs. I have not dropped it or spilled anything inside, so I believe it is a manufacturing fault. I still have my receipt and the original packaging.

As the microwave is only a week old and clearly defective, I would like a full refund or a replacement of the same model. Could you please let me know how to arrange this? I can bring the unit to the store this week at a convenient time.

Thank you for your help.

Sincerely, Daniel Okoye

✓Addresses all three bullets in order, with specific detail (date, location, symptom).

✓Polite but firm tone that fits writing to a manager.

✓Ends with a clear request and an offer to act — strong task fulfilment.

Sample 2 — Request to a landlord

27 minutes · 150–200 words

Prompt

There is a problem in your apartment that needs fixing. Write an email to your landlord. In your email:

describe the problem and where it is
explain how it is affecting you
ask for it to be fixed and suggest when

Model answer — ~CELPIP 9

Dear Mr. Alvarez,

I am writing to report a plumbing problem in my apartment, unit 305. The kitchen sink has been leaking under the cabinet for the past three days, and the water is now pooling on the floor.

The leak is making it difficult to use the kitchen, and I am worried the water could damage the cabinet or spread to the apartment below. I have placed a bucket underneath as a temporary measure, but it fills up quickly and needs constant emptying.

Could you please arrange for a plumber to repair it as soon as possible? I am available any weekday after 4 p.m. and all day this weekend, so please let me know what time works. Thank you for taking care of this quickly.

Kind regards, Mei Lin

✓Gives a precise location (unit 305, under the sink) so the reader can act.

✓Explains the impact and urgency without exaggerating.

✓Offers specific availability — a concrete next step.

Sample 3 — Friendly email to a friend

27 minutes · 150–200 words

Prompt

A friend is visiting your city next month. Write an email to your friend. In your email:

say how you feel about the visit
suggest things to do together
ask about their travel plans

Model answer — ~CELPIP 10

Hi Sofia,

I was so happy to hear you're finally coming to Calgary next month — I've been hoping you'd visit for ages!

There's so much I want to show you. If the weather is nice, we could spend a day hiking near the mountains and then relax at my favourite café downtown. I'd also love to take you to the night market on Saturday; the food is amazing and there's live music. If you'd rather take it easy, we can just stay in and catch up too.

When exactly are you arriving, and how long can you stay? Let me know your flight details and I'll pick you up at the airport. I can't wait to see you!

Love, Amara

✓Warm, informal register that suits writing to a friend.

✓Gives two concrete plans plus a relaxed alternative.

✓Asks directly about arrival and offers to help — covers the last bullet.

Frequently asked questions

01How long should a CELPIP Task 1 email be?+

Aim for 150–200 words. That's long enough to address every bullet and short enough to stay accurate within the 27-minute limit.

02Are these real CELPIP questions?+

No — these are original practice samples written in the CELPIP Task 1 style. The real test uses similar situations but different wording.

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