Task 1 format reminder
CELPIP Writing Task 1 currently gives 27 minutes for Writing an Email, and the prompt asks for about 150–200 words. Use the sample below to study purpose, tone, development and organization—not to memorize sentences.
Practice prompt
Apology for Missing an Event
You promised to help a friend at a community event but were unable to attend because of an unexpected problem. Write an email apologizing and offer to help another way.
A strong response plan
- 1Apologize clearly
- 2Briefly explain the unexpected reason
- 3Acknowledge the impact
- 4Offer a concrete way to make up for it
Sample answer
Study the organization, not the script
Hi Maya,
I am really sorry I missed the community fundraiser yesterday after promising to help with the registration table. My car would not start when I was leaving home, and by the time roadside assistance arrived the event was already well underway.
I know you were counting on me during the busiest part of the afternoon, so I feel terrible that you had to manage without the extra help. I should also have called sooner instead of only sending a message once I knew I could not get there.
If it would still be useful, I can help enter the registration information this evening or assist with packing and returning supplies tomorrow. Please let me know which would help most.
Again, I am sorry for letting you down.
Jordan
What to notice
Take responsibility
Keep the explanation believable and concise
Offer a useful repair action
Now answer a fresh prompt
Write a new timed response so you practise planning, development, tone and editing rather than reproducing a memorized example.
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