Band 9: WRITING TASK 1 You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. You are due to start a new job next week but you will not be able to because you have some problems. Write a letter to your new employer. In your letter • explain your situation • describe your problems • tell him/her when you think you can start. You should write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write your own address. Begin your letter as follows: Dear ...............,

Dear Ms. Barnes,

I am writing to discuss the position of Assistant Office Manager that I am scheduled to begin next Monday. Unfortunately, I have encountered a problem.

As you know, I currently work for my uncle’s food-packing business, where I have gained valuable experience, as I mentioned during my interview. Unfortunately, he has had to undergo surgery, which has left my aunt in charge of both the home and the business. Given that this is a particularly busy time of year, she has asked me to stay on and help her manage the office.

I understand that this may be inconvenient for you, but I hope that, given the circumstances, you would be willing to allow me to start my position with you two weeks later than initially planned.

I want to emphasize that I remain very enthusiastic about the opportunity to work with you, and I believe that I will be gaining further useful experience during this interim period.

I look forward to your response.

Yours sincerely,

John Forbes