Task 1
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
You have bought a new laptop computer but after a few days of purchase discovered a major flaw.
Write a letter to the company. In your letter:
- introduce yourself
- explain the situation
- say what action you would like to company to take
You do NOT need to write any addresses.
Begin your letter as follows:
Dear…
Write at least 150 words.
Dear Sir,
I am writing to you with regards certain issues that have arisen recently with a laptop purchased from your store last week.
Initially the machine worked perfectly and I was more than happy with its performance. However, as I turned it on yesterday whilst at work, I heard some unfamiliar noises and the operating system froze, leaving only a blue screen on the display and message that is beyond my limited computer knowledge.
I restarted the machine and it seemed to function as normal. Nonetheless, as this laptop is essential for my work and contains a number of important documents, I am not confident in continuing to use it, and would appreciate one of your technicians looking into this. I am able to return the product to your store tomorrow.
I am looking forward to a rapid resolution to this as I have otherwise been extremely happy with my purchase, and have used your shop a number of times in the past.
Yours faithfully,
J. Connor
(161 words)
Task 2
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
Some people say that advertising encourages us to buy things we do not really need. Others say that advertisements tell us about new products that may improve our lives.
Which viewpoint do you agree with?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
You should write at least 250 words.
Companies promoting their products can be both advantageous and problematic for the consumer, as they may gain an awareness of something which they would appreciate, but may also be misled about the potential value. However, there is perhaps a stronger argument to be made for the latter, as will now be discussed.
Primarily, most advertising focuses solely on the positive aspects of a product or service, giving a biased point of view about its effectiveness or impact. A clear example of this can be seen with car advertisements, which show the vehicle being driven on open roads, free of other traffic on a beautiful day in stunning surroundings. This clearly does not represent the reality of car ownership, and in this case may encourage people to purchase the car under false pretences.
In addition, there are a number of products that will be purchased simply because the advertising suggests that this is the way for social acceptance. A simple product like a shaving razor for example, often shows successful men surrounded by women, prompting the viewer to conclude that purchasing their product will automatically transfer this degree of popularity.
On the other hand, there are some products which are of great value, but the public would not be so aware of without promotion. An example here would be health related products, such as medication to boost the immune system, thus potentially preventing illnesses such as the common cold. However, this is also prone to exaggeration and unrealistic expectations are sometime drawn from excessive advertising.
In sum, advertising that simply introduces a product with a benefit is acceptable, whereas promotional media that is not realistic is likely to encourage people to spend money on irrelevant articles.
(284 words)