Write a letter to the local planning committee, a new swimming pool is about to be built in your town.
| A new swimming pool is about to be built in your town. The local planning committee wants all residents to let them know where to place the pool — in the centre of town or just outside the town. Write a letter to the committee. In your letter: -Describe the importance of the pool -Say where you prefer the pool to be located and why -Explain why the other location is less suitable |
Band 5 Sample (≈ 162 words)
Dear Committee,
I am writing about new swimming pool in our town. It is very good idea and many people are happy about it.
Swimming pool is good for children and also adults. People can learn swimming, which is helpful. Also it is good for health and fun. I think it is very important for community.
I want the swimming pool to be in the centre of town. Because many people can come there. It is close to houses, schools and shops. It will be easy to reach by walking or bus. If it is near, more people will come.
I don’t like the idea of putting pool outside town. It is far and people who don’t have cars will not go. Children and old people cannot go there alone. It is not comfortable and can be dangerous.
Please think about this. Thank you.
Yours sincerely,
Ravi Kumar
Band 5 Explanation:
- Basic vocabulary and grammar, several errors (“writing about new swimming pool”, “is very good idea”)
- Simple sentence structure, lacks complex forms
- All bullet points covered, but ideas are underdeveloped
- Clear opinion, but limited cohesion and formality
Band 7 Sample (≈ 178 words)
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing in response to your request for feedback regarding the location of the proposed new swimming pool in our town.
A public swimming pool is a great addition to any community. It provides a healthy form of exercise for all age groups, offers opportunities for swimming lessons, and can also serve as a social hub for local residents. I strongly believe it will benefit our town greatly.
In my opinion, the swimming pool should be built in the centre of town. This location is more accessible to a larger number of residents, especially children and elderly people who may not have personal transport. Being centrally located would also allow nearby schools to organise swimming classes easily.
Placing the pool just outside the town might limit its use. Many residents may find it difficult to travel, especially during winter or bad weather. This could reduce the pool’s usefulness and attendance.
Thank you for allowing the community to participate in this decision. I hope you will consider the central location.
Yours faithfully,
Ravi Kumar
Band 7 Explanation:
- Clear structure and logical flow
- Accurate grammar and vocabulary, some complexity (“especially during winter or bad weather”)
- Fully addresses all bullet points
- Minor language slips may exist, but do not affect clarity
Band 9 Sample (≈ 195 words)
Dear Planning Committee,
I am writing to express my views regarding the proposed construction of a new swimming pool in our town. First, let me commend the initiative—this facility will greatly contribute to the health, recreation, and well-being of residents across all age groups.
In terms of location, I strongly advocate for building the swimming pool in the town centre. Accessibility is key to ensuring the facility is well-used. A central location would allow easy access for children walking from school, seniors relying on public transport, and families who prefer to walk rather than drive. It would also support local businesses nearby, creating a more vibrant community hub.
Conversely, placing the pool on the outskirts of town would present several challenges. The majority of residents without personal vehicles—particularly the elderly and youth—would struggle to reach it. It may also discourage casual use, reducing the overall impact the pool could have on community health and engagement.
I appreciate the opportunity to share my opinion and hope you will prioritise inclusivity and accessibility in your final decision.
Yours sincerely,
Ravi Kumar
Band 9 Explanation:
- Sophisticated vocabulary: “advocate”, “vibrant community hub”, “discourage casual use”
- Natural, fluent transitions and varied sentence structures
- Precise tone and well-developed ideas for all bullet points
- Excellent control of grammar and cohesion