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Simone Braverman

Simone Braverman is the founder of IELTS-Blog.com and the author of several renowned IELTS preparation books, including Ace the IELTS, Target Band 7, the High Scorer's Choice practice test series, and IELTS Success Formula. Since 2005, Simone has been committed to making IELTS preparation accessible and effective through her books and online resources. Her work has helped 100,000's of students worldwide achieve their target scores and live their dream lives. When Simone isn't working on her next IELTS book, video lesson, or coaching, she enjoys playing the guitar or rollerblading.

IELTS test in India – January 2022 (General Training)

The questions and topics below were shared by Y.G. who took the IELTS test in India in January this year.

Writing test

Writing task 1 (a letter)

You recently saw an advertisement in a newspaper seeking volunteers to do unpaid work with local children. You are interested in this work. Write a letter to the head of the organisation. In your letter

– express your interest
– ask for details of the work that needs to be done
– let them know when you are available.

Writing task 2 (an essay)

Some people think that air travel should be reduced to protect the environment. Do you agree or disagree? Give reasons for your answer and include relevant examples from your knowledge or experience.

Speaking test

Part 1 (Interview)

– What is your full name?
– Can I see your ID?
– Where are you from?
– Is it a good place to raise children?
– Do you like science?
– Which part of science do you find interesting?
– Do you think science should be compulsory in schools?
– How often do you write on paper?
– What do you like better, typing or writing on paper?
– Did you write by hand often in school?

Part 2 (Cue Card)

Talk about a famous person from your country. Please say

– who he/she is
– what he/she is famous for
– how he/she became famous
– and explain how you feel about this person.

Part 3 (Discussion)

– Do your friends like this person?
– Do celebrities portray a country’s image?
– How can they create a positive image? Why?
– Are they able to portray a country in negative light? Why?

IELTS Letter, topic: Notifying a bank about a missing credit card

This is a model response to a Writing Task 1 topic from High Scorer’s Choice IELTS Practice Tests book series (reprinted with permission). This answer is close to IELTS Band 9.

Set 2 General Training book, Practice Test 10

Writing Task 1

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

You recently received a letter from your bank that should have contained a new credit card. Unfortunately, the card was not in the letter. Write a letter to your bank manager.

In your letter,


– explain what has happened
– suggest the credit card should be cancelled for security reasons
– ask when a new credit card can be sent to you

You should write at least 150 words.

You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows:

Dear Sir / Madam,

Sample Band 9 Letter

Dear Sir / Madam,

I recently requested a new credit card, as my old one was stolen during a holiday abroad. Even though the letter usually containing the credit card and its respective access information arrived on time, the credit card was missing and I would like to report this to you.

When the letter arrived, no visible signs were evident that the letter had been opened, but when I inspected the letterhead closely, there were small scratches that could indicate tampering. I believe that for security reasons this newly requested credit card should be cancelled immediately in order to avoid any criminal use. It may have been a technical issue, but it is also possible that a thief was responsible.

Lastly, I would like to know when a new credit card will be sent to me, as I will be going on a business trip in the near future and need it urgently.

Best wishes,

Marianne Bolton

Go here for more IELTS Band 9 Letters