Task 2. Writing. Read the letter below, which Saule wrote to a
magazine problem page. What advice would you give her?
Please help me. I’m desperate and I need help. I’ve just started high
school and even though my work’s not bad, some senior girls are making
my life a misery. I am only 14 years old and these girls are over 16. They
pick on me every break time, and basically do everything to make me cry.
They take my money off me, and if I haven’t got any they all take it in
turns to slap me. I’ve tried to play truancy so that I don’t meet them, but
I can’t stay off school forever, as my parents will find out. Please help
me, I’ve got no-one to turn to.
Use the outline below.
Greeting
• Use the person’s first name.
Opening paragraph
Refer to the problem and say why you are writing.
Main part (1-2 paragraphs)
• Give your advice and make suggestions.
Closing paragraph
• Make a final comment.
Signing off
• Use a signature ending and your first name below that.
Expressions/phrases commonly used in a letter giving advice.
Opening paragraph I was sorry to hear that you’ve got problems.
I hope the following advice will help you.
I’ve thought about your problem quite a lot.
I think/Maybe you should(n’t).
If I were in your position, / If I were you, I’d.
One thing you can do is.
How/What about?
Main Part
Closing paragraph
Why don’t you?
I hope everything goes well. Good luck!
Let me know how everything turns out.
Everything will be just fine.
Dear Kathleen,
I hope this letter finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I’m [Your Age] years old. I’m from [Your Nationality]. I’m writing to you to introduce myself and hopefully start a meaningful conversation.
I currently work as a [Your Occupation] because [Explain Why You Are Writing — e.g., I’m passionate about it, or I find it fulfilling]. I’m quite [Brief Description of Your Appearance] and [Brief Description of Your Personality]. My friends often describe me as [mention a few personality traits].
In my daily life, I enjoy [Talk About Your Interests and Hobbies], and I’m always looking for new things to learn and explore. I’m particularly interested in [mention specific interests].
I’d love to learn more about you, Kathleen. Could you please tell me about your background and interests? It would be great to know about your work, appearance, and what you enjoy doing in your free time.
Looking forward to hearing from you and getting to know you better.
Best regards,
[Your Name]