TOP 10 TIPS FOR THE APTIS WRITING TEST

Tip 1: Use the right register.

This is the level of formality, friendliness, politeness you use when you write.
Knowing and being able to use the correct register when you write (and speak) shows
that you can use English well. Using the correct register is more likely to get you the
solution you want and so, it is also important for task achievement.
Tip 2: Know the correct spelling.
English spelling is difficult but when you learn the standard phrases, you can also learn
the spelling. This will make spelling easier. We will look at other difficult words that
occur often later. UK English and USA English sometimes have different spellings. It
is not important which one you use but you should be consistent in every question.
Tip 3: Improve your typing speed.
Unless you opt paper-based version, APTIS writing test is computer-based. So the
faster you type the better. Just make sure your typing speed isn’t too slow.
Tip 4: Know the word count.
You lose marks if you write too little and waste time if you write too much (it isn’t
counted). Therefore, you should know how many words should write and how long
you have for each question. Then you can practice them at home. Remember that
formal sentences are generally longer than informal sentences.
Tip 5: Read model answers.
Doing this will give you a good idea of what to expect. Think about the things the
examiners are looking for and look at how accurate the grammar is. Ask yourself ‘is it
cohesive and clear?’ ‘Is the vocabulary wide-ranging or repetitious?’ and ‘is it well
planned?’.
Tip 6: Get used to the timings
Make sure that you know how long you have for each part and don’t go over that time.
Practice ant home with a timer will stop you from getting any horrible surprises. If you
know an APTIS examiner or trainer speak to them and ask them what you need to do
to improve.
Tip 7: Check your work
It is easy to lose points for making silly mistakes. Check what you have written. Look
at spelling and punctuation. For grammar check- prepositions/dependant
prepositions/verb-noun agreement/countable and uncountable/tenses. Remember
you can "flag in" option. You can always come back to a question where you had a
doubt.
Tip 8: Finish in time
You don’t get any marks for blank spaces, so always write something. Even if you
think it’s bad, and you might be surprised, it is better than nothing.
Tip 9: Stay on topic
This is again about answering the question and affects task achievement. If you are
asked for an opinion you should give one. If you have to say, for example, why you
are applying to join a club. Then you should write about clubs in general.
Tip 10: Practice makes perfect!
Doing practice tests will help you build your concentration levels and your instinct.
More than that, practice will improve your English and help you with the timings you
 need to complete the test with the best result. If you would like to increase your APTIS
score by practicing more APTIS tests then please check the exam library in our
website here. There you will find largest simulated APTIS test database. Totally free
with no registration (we won't even ask for your email).

APTIS FOR TEACHERS: WRITING TESTS AND MODEL ANSWERS

 USEFUL LANGUAGE FOR LETTERS/EMAILS ASKING FOR ADVICE

Opening Remarks:
(Formal) I am writing to ask if you could help me with / 1 would appreciate it if you
could give me some advice about / 1 am writing to ask for your advice / 1 would be
grateful if you could offer your advice / Could you possibly offer your advice / I
wonder if you could help me with a problem, etc.
(Informal) I’m writing to ask for your advice / Can you give me your advice / I’ve got
a problem and I need your advice, etc.
Closing Remarks:
(formal) I would appreciate it if you could give me your advice as soon as possible / 1
look forward to receiving your advice / It would be of great help if you could advise
me, etc.
(Informal) What do you think I should do? / Please let me know what you think I
should do. / Please tell me what to do,etc.

 USEFUL LANGUAGE FOR LETTERS/EMAILS GIVING ADVICE

Opening Remarks:
(Formal) Thank you for your letter/email requesting / 1 am writing in reply to your
letter asking for advice about / 1 hope the following advice will be of some help to
you, etc.
(Informal) I just got your letter and I think i can help you / 1 was sorry to hear about
your problem. Here’s what I think you should do, etc.
 Suggestions can be introduced with expressions such as:
(formal) I strongly recommend that / 1 would suggest that / 1 believe the best course of
action is / 1 would advise you to / You should / You ought to / If I were you I
would….
(Informal) Why don’t you / You should / You ought to / It would be a good idea to /
What you should do is ... / How about... I think you should ... / The best advice I can
give you is..., etc.
Closing Remarks:
(formal) I trust you will accept this advice / 1 hope this will be of help / 1 would very
much like to know if this was helpful (Informal) Hope this has helped / Let me know
what happens, etc.

HOMEWORK:
Write the following in the appropriate style using 120 - 180 words.
1) Your parents will not let you go on holiday as they want you to study for your
exams. Write a letter to a friend asking for his/her advice on this matter.
2) The extract below is part of an email you received recently from a friend. Write a
reply giving her some advice about what she should do.
“ I failed all my A-level exams so now I can’t get into university. I feel like such a
failure; I ’ll never get a degree now.”

3 You feel that you and your mother cannot agree on anything. Write a letter to a
problem page asking for advice.

WRITING A FORMAL LETTER

Starting
● We are writing to you with reference to (the above order).
● With reference to your advertisement/letter of 10 March……
● We are pleased to have your inquiry of 25 of July….
● We acknowledge the receipt of your letter dated 12 April …..
● With reference to your letter inquiring about…
● With reference to our telephone conversation yesterday (about…),…
● We wish to remind you that…..
● I am writing this letter to request the cancellation of……..
● I am writing this letter to complain in the strongest terms about the poor service that
I have received from your company.
Action
● Please advise us as soon as the…….
● Please open a ………….in favour of (name of the company)……….
● Payment can be made on any basis acceptable to you.
● Could you please supply us with information about the company’s standing.
● We have been informed (by one of our clients) that……….
● We regret to inform you, (however,) that….
● Please accept our apologies for the inconvenience caused.
● We must insist on…
● Please note that the closing date/deadline for the ……… is 30 September, so will
you please complete the attached forms and return them as soon as possible.
● Any information you supply will be treated confidentially.
● May we remind you that your statement is still outstanding.
● Will you kindly balance your account promptly?
● We are puzzled to have had no remittance from you.
● You already have an overdraft of….
● Please give the matter your immediate attention.
● We will be left with no alternative but to (take legal action)… unless payment is
received within the next seven days.
● Our circumstances do not allow us to wait/to go on waiting any longer.
● Please look into the matter.
● We were dissatisfied to find that….
● We shall have to terminate the contract.
● On examination we have found…
● We greatly appreciate your patience in this matter.
Enclosures and attachment
● We would be grateful if you could forward/send any further information (you may
have) about…. (products and terms of payment/this case)
● We will be pleased to supply any further information you require.
● We are sending the herewith the……
● We look forward to doing business to our mutual advantage.
● We would like to make a decision on this as soon as possible.
● In the meantime, we suggest that you call the ………
● We hope to meet your requirements.
● Please send us by return the terms and conditions on …………..
● For purposes of quick contact a reply by telephone would be appreciated.
● We look forward to the opportunity of being at your service.
● Could you please let us know in your earliest convenience whether the above terms
and conditions are acceptable for you.
● We hope that the matter will be settled to our mutual satisfaction.
● We very much hope that you will be able to…..
● I would be grateful if you could spare me a few minutes.
● As our demand/request/issue is very urgent, a quick answer would be appreciated.
● Would you (also forward details of charges)………. at your earliest convenience?
● I should/would be pleased if you could send me …….
● We trust/hope you will find this condition acceptable.
● If there is any other information you need, please do not hesitate to contact us at the
above email address.
● Thank you in advance.
● I would be most grateful if you would reply as soon as possible so that this matter
can be resolved to everyone’s satisfaction.
● Please find enclosed….
● I am enclosing…….
● Please find attached….
APTIS FOR TEACHERS: EXAMPLE ANSWER TO PRACTICE TESTS #1

PART 1: You are joining a teacher’s social committee. Fill out the form. Write
short answers (1-5 words) for each message. You have 3 minutes.

What is your name? My name is Jennifer Nguyen

What subject do you teach? I teach mathematics and science.
Where are you from? I am from Vietnam.
How long have you been teaching? I have been teaching for 2 years.
What is your favourite genre of music? My favourite type of music is pop.

PART 2: You are a new member of the teacher’s social committee. Fill out the
form. Answer the question in 20-30 words. You have 7 minutes.

Please tell us about what you do in your free time and why:
In my free time, I am into reading fiction books. I like reading about magic and fantasy
because it is interesting.

PART 3: You are speaking to fellow members of the teacher’s social committee in
a group chat. Respond to them in full sentences (30-40 words per answer). You
have 10 minutes.

Christina: Hey! Welcome to the group. Can you tell us why you decided to join our
social club?
Hi Christina! I decided to join a social club to make new friends. I have just moved to
this town and it would be nice to make friends who have the same interests as me.

Diana: What kinds of activities do you hope to do with us?

I am interested in learning more about teaching. Many of the group members have
been teaching for more years than me, so I think we can have some interesting
discussions when we hang out.

Mike: I heard that the club wants to have events on weekends. What is your opinion on
this?
To be honest, I don’t really like that idea. I like to relax and chill out. I also go to see
my family every weekend. They live far away, so I cannot attend meetings on
Saturdays or Sundays.

PART 4: You received this email from the president of the club.

Dear new member,

Thank you for your interest in the Eastmount High School Teacher’s Social
Committee. As a member of the group, we understand you enjoy having fun, and we
hope you can help the students have fun as well. For this reason, we are requesting that
each of you sign up to supervise one of the student activities this academic year. This
may be a dance or a field trip. There is a sign-up sheet in the staffroom. Please provide
your availability by Tuesday.
Thanks.
President of the Social Committee.

Write a short email to your friend (about 50 words). Tell your friend your
feelings about this and what you plan to do. You have 10 minutes.

INFORMAL:
Hey Plato,
Do you remember that social group for teachers that I joined? They want us to do
social activities with students too! I don’t like that idea. I already spend a lot of time
with students and I think it is a lot of extra responsibility. I am going to talk to the
president of the club about this issue.
Speak soon,
Jenn

Write an email to the president of the committee (about 120-150 words). Tell
them your thoughts about this and what you would like to do. You have 20
minutes.

FORMAL:
Dear President,
I am writing to you in response to the new policy of the Teacher’s Social Committee.
Firstly, we joined the committee to spend time with our colleagues, not with students.
It is important to get to know our coworkers as friends. We don’t have a lot of free
time because we always have to plan lessons and correct assignments.
Secondly, supervising student events is a lot of responsibility. At fun events, students
don’t like to follow the rules of a classroom. In fact, they might try to cause problems.
For this reason, I think it should be part of our paid duties.
I hope you can consider my reasons for not wanting to sign up for an activity.
Regards,
Jenn

APTIS FOR TEACHERS: EXAMPLE ANSWER TO PRACTICE TESTS #2

PART 1: You are joining a group for new teachers. Fill out the form. Write short
answers (1-5 words) for each message. You have 3 minutes.

What is your name? My name is Julia Rodrigues

What do you do? I am a teacher.
Where do you work? I work in Sao Paolo, Brazil.
What is your favourite subject? My favourite subject is history.
What did you do last weekend? I went to the gym.
PART 2: You are a new member of the group for new teachers. Fill out the form.
Answer the question in 20-30 words. You have 7 minutes.

Please tell us about why you are joining the group for new teachers:
I am joining this group to meet other new teachers. I think that we can help each other
adjust to our new jobs.

PART 3: You are speaking to fellow members of the group for new teachers in a
group chat. Respond to them in full sentences (30-40 words per answer). You
have 10 minutes.

Alicia: Hey! Welcome to the group. Can you tell us why you wanted to become a
teacher?
I decided to become a teacher because I love children. They are creative and always
like learning new things. Moreover, it has been my dream since I was a child to
become a history teacher.
Kalyn: I still remember my kindergarten teacher. Who was your favourite teacher and
why?
My favourite teacher was my English teacher, Mr. Maxwell. He was from the United
Kingdom, but he lived in Brazil when I was in high school. He taught us English and
History in English and was patient and kind.
Connor: I heard that some senior teachers might watch our lessons. What is your
opinion on this?
On one hand, I believe that having senior teachers watch us is intimidating and it
makes me a bit nervous. On the other hand, it would be useful to hear tips from experts
on how we can improve our lessons.

PART 4: You received this email from the principal.

Dear New Teacher,

Welcome to the team! We understand how difficult it is to transition from being a
student to a teacher in your first year of work. In light of this, we would like to offer
you more support. Beginning on the first Friday in October, we will hold weekly
training meetings led by more senior staff to help you in your new role. These
meetings are unpaid, and therefore, not mandatory. However, we feel that it is in your
best interest to attend them for your own professional development.

Write a short email to your friend (about 50 words). Tell your friend your
feelings about this email and what you plan to do. You have 10 minutes.

INFORMAL:
Hey Felipe,
I got an email from the principal about the group for new teachers that I joined. We
are being told to attend unpaid staff meetings every Friday! I am grateful for the
opportunity, but I don’t want to spend my Friday afternoons at work for no pay!
Speak soon,
Julia

Write an email to the principal (about 120-150 words). Tell them your thoughts
about this email and what you would like to do. You have 20 minutes.

FORMAL:
Dear Principal,
Thank you for your email about the staff meetings for new teachers!
On one hand, I am quite excited about the idea. I am looking forward to learning from
my colleagues. On the other hand, I am upset by the choice of day. After a long week
of teaching, many of us new teachers would like to go home and relax. Instead, we
have to spend our free time at work.
Although I am eager to participate in these training sessions, I am wondering if we
could arrange another date. I have spoken to some other group members and we
believe that a week night meeting after school would be best for all of our schedules.
Could we consider Monday or Wednesday instead? Please let me know if this is
possible.
Regards,
Julia Rodrigues

APTIS FOR TEACHERS: WRITING PRACTICE TEST #3

PART 1: You are joining a volunteer organization. Fill out the form. Write short
answers (1-5 words) for each message. You have 3 minutes.

What is your name? My name is Sumandeep Kaur.

When is your birthday? My birthday is July 12th, 1990.
Where are you from? I am from Mumbai, India.
What are your hobbies? I am into reading novels.
What are your plans for the weekend? I am going to study.

PART 2: You are a new member of the volunteer organization. Fill out the form.
Answer the question in 20-30 words. You have 7 minutes.

Please tell us if you have volunteered before. What did you do:
When I was back home in my country, I volunteered once a month. I used to teach
English to poor children in Mumbai.

PART 3: You are speaking to fellow members of the volunteer organization in a

group chat. Respond to them in full sentences (30-40 words per answer). You
have 10 minutes.

Emily: Hey! Welcome to the group. I like to help out at a homeless shelter. Where do
you like to volunteer?
Since I am a teacher, I really like to volunteer with children. Besides teaching at a
home for poor children, I would also help out at schools with after-school activities
like coaching sports and homework club.
Luc: I donate money to different charities. What charity organizations can you donate
to in your area?
I think donating money is really important for international catastrophes, so I tend to
donate to the Red Cross. Recently, I gave money to the relief program for Lebanon
after the terrible explosion in Beirut.
Sylvie: I heard that the club is organizing weekly outings to volunteer.
What is your opinion on this?
It is important for organizations to have regular volunteers, so I believe this is a great
idea. However, I cannot commit to helping once a week because my schedule is too
busy.

PART 4: You received this email from the leader of the volunteer organization.

Dear member,
In order to meet the new group requirements, you must complete a compulsory 20
hours of volunteer work in one academic year (September-June). You can spend your
time tutoring children or talking to seniors in a retirement home. However, we
encourage you to try different things.
If you are looking for new opportunities, please let us know. We have limited positions
at a soup kitchen serving the hungry and may be able to arrange a position for you.
Regards,
Mr. Arsenault

Write a short email to your friend (about 50 words). Tell your friend your
feelings about this and what you plan to do. You have 10 minutes.

INFORMAL:
Hey Matt,
I’ve just received an email from the volunteer organization that I am involved with. We
have to complete 20 hours of volunteer work in different places. I think this is a lot, but
they are helping us find new positions. I’m going to contact them for more
information.
Speak soon,
Sumandeep

Write an email to the leader of the volunteer organization (about 120-150 words).
Tell them your thoughts about this and what you would like to do. You have 20
minutes.

FORMAL:
Dear Mr. Arsenault,
Thank you for your email.
Although 20 hours of volunteer work seems like a lot, it will be easy to complete in
more than one location. Currently, I am helping out once a month at an after-school
program for poor children. I opted for this position because it gives me more teaching
experience. At the end of the academic year, I will have only completed 10 hours.
For this reason, I am requesting help finding another opportunity. You have mentioned
serving food in a kitchen, but I do not think I would be a good fit in this position. I am
terrible in the kitchen and very clumsy. Instead, I would prefer to work with children. I
think that I am patient and could really make a difference.
Please let me know if you can arrange a position in that field.
Regards,
Sumandeep Kaur

Dear Sir/Madam,
As I have recently read on your email, members of the club will have to pay an extra
fee, or a smaller monthly payment due to upgrade and improvements on the website. I
feel confident that these changes will be worth paying the amount of 50$.
I have been a member of this club for many years and I would like to continue using
your services. However, currently I am unemployed, so I can not afford to pay that fee,
or any commitment to pay an extra monthly payment. To solve this issue, you could
make a discount for older members, at least for unemployed ones.
I hope you find this solution satisfactory. Thanks for your understanding.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Yours faithfully,
Francisco Sánchez.

APTIS ADVANCED: WRITING TESTS, MODEL ANSWERS AND TIPS

In this article, we will provide you with writing sample questions, model answers, and
general tips to prepare for APTIS Advanced.

What is the APTIS Advanced?

APTIS Advanced is a language proficiency test designed by the British Council that
follows a similar format to the APTIS General Test. Like the general version, it is a
computer-based test that analyzes an individual’s Grammar and Vocabulary, as well as
his/her Reading, Listening, Writing and Speaking. There are several tasks within each
component and each section has a specified assigned time limit. In total, the test lasts
about 2 hours and 50 minutes.
APTIS Advanced Reading Test is separated into four parts. Each part becomes harder,
so that part 1 is the easiest, while part 4 is the hardest. You are given 60 minutes in
APTIS Advanced
If you would like to access simulated APTIS advanced tests, then please follow the
link here.
For further details please visit the British Council website here.
 APTIS ADVANCED: WRITING PRACTICE TEST #1

PART 1: You are a member of the science club and you are speaking to three
other members of in a group chat. Respond to them in full sentences (30-40 words
per answer). You have 10 minutes. 

Martin: Hey! Welcome to the group. I got into science when I was in high school, so I
decided to become an engineer. What about you?
Hi Martin! I started watching scientific TV programs when I was a little kid. I
remember rushing home from school every day to catch the episode from start to
finish.
Jorge: Welcome! Can you tell me about any experiments you have done before?    
I am actually not so keen on experiments as I am on building things. I could say my
specialty is making models of cars and modifying them to different velocities. I prefer
physics to chemical science. 
Bea: Who is your favourite scientist or inventor? Why?
I think my favourite inventor would have to be Johannes Gutenberg. I know this isn’t a
typical answer for a science buff like myself, but without him, we wouldn’t have mass-
produced texts that help to spread knowledge. 

PART 2:  You received this email from a local café. Read the email and the notes
you have made. Write a reply (120-150 words) using your notes, and express how
you feel about the situation. 

Dear Customer, 
Thank you for your continued patronage at our café. We are always looking for ways
to improve your experience! We would love to know more about your visit today.
How fast were you served? (1) It would be great to know whether you found our staff
helpful or not. Did they answer all of your questions with a smile? (2) Lastly, what did
you think of our new patio? Did you have a chance to enjoy it? (3)  We would love to
hear your thoughts! 
Yours faithfully,

Krave Café Staff 

NOTES: 
1. Slow service - made me late for work
2. Friendly staff – but too talkative
3. Patio looked beautiful – but it was raining 

Dear Krave Café Staff,

Thanks for reaching out!
While I normally love visiting your café, I have to admit I was quite underwhelmed by
my experience there the last time I went. For starters, the service was incredibly slow.
I think it took about 10 minutes to get my latte. I know that is not a long time to wait,
but it made me late for work. I think it may have been because your barista was overly
chatty with each customer. Don’t get me wrong, it’s great to be friendly. However,
people have places to be in the morning!
On my way out, I noticed how lovely the new patio looked. Had I not been running
late, or if it were not raining, I would have loved to have my coffee there.
Let me know if you have any questions about my comments.
Best regards,
Sumit 

PART 3:  Shopaholics Anonymous!  is a website that publishes short articles
submitted by the public on general interest topics. You have been asked to write
an article about Online Shopping. You have done some research on this topic in
note form. Using your notes, write an informative and attention-grabbing article
for publication (180-220 words).

NOTES:

- More products to choose from

- Can find deals and use coupon codes
 
-Pros: convenience / no lines or crowds
-Cons:  cannot physically inspect item/ have to pay to return

Price comparisons
Product Type Avg Price in Avg Price online +/- Overall
person
Books $15/book shop $5 on Amazon +
Cheaper and
bigger selection
online
Groceries $100 for the $150 for the -
weekly shop weekly shop More convenient/
but can’t
guarantee
freshness of
products
Clothes $80 $80 (many % off -/+
deals) Save money/ but
can’t try on
 
FORMAL:
If you could only shop one way for the rest of your life, how would you choose to do
so?
For me and many others, online shopping has become a life-changing component of
our existence. Let’s consider the abundance that is found online. I can find any book I
have ever wanted for a third of the price online. What’s more is that I don’t have to
fight for a parking spot in a busy lot or stand in a long line to purchase it. The savings
extend to clothes too. When my son was a baby, we constantly had to buy clothes
because of how fast he was growing. By shopping online, I single-handedly saved my
family some serious cash by finding bargains and coupon codes online.
However, not all that glitters is gold. There were some serious fails in the clothing
department. I may have saved a percentage of the cost, but many of the clothes didn’t
fit right. It would have been so much better if I were able to inspect the items before
purchasing them as I had to pay to return them! I also once tried to order groceries
online, but ended up spending much more on fruit and veg that weren’t the freshest.
In a nutshell, shopping online can be more convenient and cost-efficient, but it
depends on what you buy!

APTIS ADVANCED WRITING TEST 1 WITH SAMPLE C1 ANSWERS

PART 1. You are a member of a history club. You are talking to three other
members in the history club chat room. Talk to them using sentences. Use 30 to
40 words per answer. You have 10 minutes in total. Answer all three questions.
History Club Chat

Sam: Hi! Welcome to the club. I was interested in history at school and I studied it at
university. What about you?
Hi Sam! Interestingly enough, history wasn’t something I was really into when I was
really young. But after seeing the film Gladiator I became totally obsessed with
Ancient Rome – I even took up Latin, and ended up studying classics.
Miguel: Welcome. Can you tell me something about the history of your country?
Well, in the first millennium BC there was a lot of immigration from continental
Europe, and the Celts established themselves. Then after that there was the Roman
Conquest of the British Isles, and they stuck around for about 350 years!
Michelle: Who is your favourite person from history, and why are you interested in
him or her?
I’d say Leonardo Da Vinci, the Italian polymath, as he left such an amazing legacy.
He was such a trailblazer – designing functioning robots, digital computers and even
building the first heart valve. He was so ahead of his time!
 
PART 2. You have received this email from your local supermarket. Read the
email and the notes you have made. Write a reply using all the information in
your notes, and express how you feel about the situation. You should write
between 120 and 150 words.

Dear Customer
Thank you for shopping at our supermarket. We value your custom and would like to
hear about your most recent shopping experience. Firstly, we want to know your
opinion of our staff. Were they able to help you in any way? (1) We would also like to
know what you think about the organisation of the store. Was it easy to find the
products you wanted? (2). Finally, we would like to hear your suggestions for
improving the customer shopping experience. (3)
Yours faithfully,
 Customer Services

Your notes
1. Staff seem very young – don’t always know about products
2. Every month products are moved – difficult to find what you want
3. Music plays all the time – very irritating – prefer silence!
 
Dear Customer Services
I am writing in response to your email requesting customer feedback.
Firstly, during my latest visit I found the staff well-disposed towards customers.
However, they are not well-informed about the products, which I feel is not helpful. I
understand that many are students who are only working part-time. Could they not be
given more training?
Regarding store layout, I find it frustrating never being able to find the items I need. It
seems to be your policy to ‘circulate’ basic necessities such as bread, probably in
order to boost sales by forcing customers to walk past products they may otherwise not
see. I would appreciate your moving things around less frequently.
Finally, I wish to address the irksome ‘elevator music’ constantly playing in the
background! I would suggest you get rid of it altogether.
I trust you will find my feedback useful.
Yours faithfully,
John Harrop
 
Part 3. Things You Should Know is a website that accepts short articles from
members of the public on subjects of popular interest. You have been asked to
contribute an article on the subject of Public Surveillance Systems. You have
already done some research on the subject in note and diagram form. Use
information from your research notes to help you write an article that is both
informative and interesting. Write between 180 and 220 words.
 

Notes on Public Surveillance Systems

– CCTV cameras used in public areas (streets, shops, banks)
– Increasing number of private homes installing CCTV
– Benefits: allows monitoring of public safety / can provide evidence in criminal cases
– Drawbacks: threat to individual liberty / intrusion into individual privacy
 
Numbers of Public CCTV Cameras
Crime index (the
Number of CCTV higher the
cameras per 1000 number, the
City Country
people (including greater the
private homes) incidence of
crime)
Tokyo Japan 1 23.12
Beijing China 55 34.45
London UK 73 53.7
 
Say Cheese!
Would you be less likely to commit a crime if you knew you were being filmed?
These days it’s pretty safe to assume that almost everything we do is recorded. What
with ever-cheaper technology and the miniaturisation of recording devices, CCTV
surveillance systems have become so commonplace that we barely notice them. And
it’s not just in public areas – many home-owners are having security cameras
installed.
Many people feel reassured in terms of safety by the streets being constantly
monitored. Videos are increasingly used as evidence in criminal cases, and can
provide a reliable alternative to eye-witnesses’ possibly faulty memories. However,
opinion is divided; pressure groups argue that our civil liberties are under threat, and
that having no privacy is far too high a price to pay.
What’s really interesting, though, is the relationship (or lack of one) between cameras
per capita and crime. Statistics show that Japan has the fewest CCTV cameras but
also the lowest crime rate, while crime is highest in London, although there are many
more cameras. Beijing falls between the two, both in terms of CCTV and crime.
So it’s difficult to come to any solid conclusions … though it is tempting to extrapolate
the fact that the Japanese seem to be more law-abiding than the Brits!

ASKING FOR ADVICE /GIVING ADVICE

Letters/Emails asking for or giving advice can be formal, informal or semi-formal

depending on the situation. A letter/An email asking for advice can be sent to a friend,
a consultant or an advice column in a magazine. Details of the problem should be
mentioned. A letter/An email giving advice should contain suggestions introduced
with appropriate language.
Introduction
Paragraph I
A reason for writing

Main Body
Paragraph* II – III
description of problem(s)

Conclusion
Final paragraph

Closing remarks
Full name

Introduction
Paragraph I
thanks for tetter/express
understanding of problem

Main Body
Paragraph* II – III
suggestion(s) + reason(s)

Conclusion
Final paragraph

Closing remarks
Full name

Dear Miss Pierson,

Thank you for your letter asking for my advice about what you should do now that
you have finished school. I realise how difficult this stage must be for you, but
there are a range of options for you to choose from.
If I were you, I would make a list of all the careers which I may interest you and
then decide which one you feel you are best suited to in terms of exam grades or
subject interest. I would also suggest that you see a careers officer who would be I
able to give you professional advice. Furthermore, it would be a good idea to write
to some universities and ask them to send you a prospectus; you may find a course
which really appeals to you.
I hope these suggestions will be of help to you. I wish you well in whatever course
of action you decide upon. Do let me know what you decide to do; it is always
good to hear from former pupils.
Yours sincerely,
Sanjar Jumayev

APTIS WRITING PART FOUR

You are a member of education club and you received this email from the
administration.

Dear members.
We are planning to have online monthly webinars with experts related to
education. This month Josh Gaston, who is an expert that works with technology in
education will have this webinar. We want all members to choose a topic for this
talk. We would also like to know your ideas about other experts whom we can
invite to speak to us and tell us why these people can be interesting for others as
well.

INFORMAL – Write an email to your friend who is also the member of the
club stating your feelings about this and what you are planning to suggest.

SAMPLE 1
Hi Kevin. To tell the truth, I took up this club a month ago because of my health
problems. Due to the fact that it is not far from my house, I decided to become a
member of this club. To be in a shape, I started to lead a healthy lifestyle keeping a
diet and attending to the gym as I was informed. I should admit that such kind of
activities are really useful for people who want to keep fit. I agree with your
statement as sport is crucial for people as it makes them to be healthy and avoid
illnesses and diseases. At the same time sport aids people to look young and
attractive.

SAMPLE 2
Hi Sam.
I’m writing to inform you with the organization of a monthly online webinar by the
club. Did you get the email from the club? They asked my suggestion for an online
monthly webinar. I have a lot of interesting topics related to technology in
education. Have you got any ideas about this webinar? I’m looking forward to
your answer soon.
All the bests!
Sanjar.

FORMAL – Write an email to the administration of the club. State your

opinions and tell about other experts we could invite to our club.

Dear Sir or Madam.

I’m writing to inform you with the reply of this email for the purpose of expressing
my view of point to your recent requests about the monthly online webinar.
Firstly, it is honor for me to provide suggestions for your email to select a topic on
this webinar held by Josh Gaston who is an expert on technology in education.
Secondly, I highly recommend that an expert should set up a webinar on topic
“Modern technology assists to develop learning process”. I wish it would be
intensive and efficient for all members of the club. The main reason of this topic is
that more youngsters are interested in technologies rather than a theory.
Furthermore, it would be better, if he invited a professional programmer who is
able to create educational app for students whenever possible.
I hope my suggestion will be taken into consideration while making decision on the
matter and I’m looking forward to hearing from you soon.
Yours faithfully
Sanjar.

APTIS WRITING EXAM QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Write short answers (1-5 words)

How are you? I am fine.
What is your job? I am a nurse.
What is do you like to do in the afternoon? I like to sleep in the afternoon.
What is your favourite hobby? My favourite hobby is reading.
What is your favourite sport? My favourite colour is football.
What is your favourite food? My favourite food is pizza.
What is your favourite colour? My favourite colour is green.
What is your favourite time of year? My favourite time of year is summer.
What is your favourite animal? My favourite animal is the camel.
What is your favourite place? My favourite place is Makkah.
What do you usually do in the morning? I usually sleep in the morning.

Book Club. Please write here about your hobbies and interests so we can send
you books you will enjoy (use 20-30 words.)
My hobbies and interests are reading, writing, playing football, tennis, basketball,
swimming and cooking. I also like watching films.

Aptis Book Club Chat Room – use 30-40 words.

Bubbie: Hi! Welcome to the chat room. I have been a member for about 6 months.
The club has really amazing books.
Why did you join? I joined the book club because I like reading a lot. I like
reading story books, history books and health books. I started reading books when
I was three years old.
Bubbie: What was the last thing you read, and what did you think about it?
The last thing I read was a book about sports. It was about football. I thought it
was a really good book. I read it in one day because it was really short.
Bubbie: What are you planning for your next holiday and what books are you
going to take with you? I am planning to go to Makkah for my next holiday for
Umrah. I am going to take the Quran and a book about the stories of the prophets
with me.

Dear customers,
We are sorry to announce that from next month we will no longer be able to
continue our offer of one free book every month. Also, because of problems with
our delivery service, please expect a wait of 4-6 weeks before you order arrives.
Pease feel free to email us if you have any comments.
Write an email to one of your friends from the club. Describe your feelings
about the email message you just received and suggest possible action. Write
about 50 words.

INFORMAL:
Hi Ali, I haven’t heard from you in a while. I hope you’re well. Did you read the
email I’ve attached here? I’m not happy about this at all. It’s so inconvenient.
They should at least sit down with us and ask us for our suggestions. We should
complain to the management and try to get a different solution. See you soon, Sami

Write an e-mail to the customer service team. Tell them how you feel about
the service, and suggest what you would like them to do. Write 120-150 words.

FORMAL:
Dear Sir/Madam, I hope this reaches you in the best of health. I am writing to you
regarding the most recent changes announced in the email last night. This is a
really sudden decision and it places me and others in a tough situation. I am sorry
to complain, but this is really putting me under a lot of stress. I made plans based
on the previous dates and I was really satisfied with what we had agreed upon
before. Is there anything that can be done to reverse this decision? Or can
those responsible sit down with us for other solutions? I hope you consider my
request. Thank you for taking the time to read this. I truly apologize for the long
email and I hope to hear back from you soon. Respectfully, Sami Khalaf Alrashidi

You are a member of www.findahouse.co.uk. Use 20-30 words. You have 7

minutes.
Please tell us about yourself and what you are looking for in your new home.
My name is Sanjar. I amforty-five years old. I am looking for a big house that is
new.

Homemaker: Hi! Welcome to the chat room.

What do you want to know about living in the UK?
I want to know about the prices of houses in the United Kingdom. Are they
expensive or cheap? Also, can I find a good clean house in a safe neighborhood?

Homemaker: How many people are there in your family? What do you like doing
together? There are six people in my family. I have three sisters and three brothers.
We like to cook, eat, read, write, drink tea, play playstation and watch films
together.

Homemaker: Where do you live at the moment? What’s it like?

I live in Hail, Saudi Arabia at the moment. I live in a small apartment in the middle
of the city. It has two rooms, a kitchen, a living room and two bathrooms.

You received an e-mail from a friend asking if you have found any nice
houses. Write to your friend and say what you have found. Write up to 50
words. You have 10 minutes.
Hello Ali, How are you? I have found many nice houses. The best house I have
found is in London, United Kingdom. The house is really beautiful and big. It has
three rooms, two kitchens, two bathrooms, two living rooms and a balcony. I want
to really buy this house. Write back, Abdullahi

You have seen a house you like on the website. Write an e-mail to the estate
agent, asking some questions about the house and saying when you would like
to see it. Write 120-150 words. You have 20 minutes.

__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________

Cooking Club – Use 20-30 words. You have 7 minutes.

Please tell us about the days and times you can come and the food you enjoy
cooking and eating.

__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________

You are a member of a cooking club….Use 30 to 40 words per answer. You

have ten minutes.
Jo: Hi! I hear you’ve just started taking cooking classes. I’ve been a member for
about two years because my children want me to getter at cooking. Why did you
join?
Jo: How often do you think you’ll go?
Jo: How many people are there in your family? What do you like doing together?
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
Dear member, I am writing to inform that next week’s cooking class will be
cancelled because your teacher is on holiday. Extra classes may be available
when the teacher returns. I am sorry if this creates any difficulties for you.
Unfortunately, we will not be able to offer you a refund at this stage.
Write an email to your friend. Write about your feelings and what you think
the club should do about the situation. Write about 50 words.

__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________

Write an e-mail to the manager of the club. Write about your feelings and
what you think the club should do about the situation. Write 120-150 words.

__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________

You are a member of a college. Fill in the form. Use 20-30 words.
Aptis College: Please tell us about the days and times you can attend courses
and what you would like to study

Aptis College Chat

Sam: Hi! Welcome to the college. What course are you doing and why did you
choose it?
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
Miguel: Welcome! How do you feel about the college so far?
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
Michelle: Did you hear that the college sports club has closed? What do you think
about this?
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
You are a member of a college. You received this email from the college
administrator.

Dear Student,
We are writing to inform you that the end of course exams will now take place two
weeks earlier than originally planned. Your exam, which was scheduled for the
21st of next month, will now take place on the 7th of next month. We apologize for
any difficulty this may cause.
College Administrator

Write an e-mail to your friend. Write about your feelings and what you think
the college should do about the situation. Write about 50 words.

__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________

Write an e-mail to the college administrator. Write about your feelings and
what you think the college should do about the situation. Write 120-150
words.

__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________

Aptis Gardening Club – Use 20-30 words.

Please write some of the reasons why you have joined the gardening club.
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________

Aptis Gardening Club – Use 30-40 words

Sam: Hi! Welcome to the club. Can you tell me something about your garden?
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________

Miguel: Welcome! Is gardening very popular in your country?

__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
Michelle: What is your favourite season and why do you like it?
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________

Dear member,
We are writing to tell you that the talk and slide show on The Gardens of Japan by
Mr. Seiko has been cancelled because the speaker has been taken ill. Mr. Jones has
kindly agreed to give his talk on The Gardens of England again. I know that many
of you have already heard Mr. Jones before, but I hope you will be happy to hear
him once again.

Write an e-mail to your friend. Write about your feelings and what you think
the club should do about the situation. Write about 50 words.

__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________

Write an e-mail to the president of the club. Write about your feelings and
what you think the club should do about the situation. Write 120-150 words.
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________

Aptis Music Club – Use 20-30 words

When and where do you listen to music? What kind of music do you like?
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________

Aptis Music Club

Miguel: Hi! Welcome to the chat room. I love listening to music, but I can’t play
an instrument or sing. What about you?
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
John: Welcome! Why is music important to you?
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________

Ali: Did you hear that the club is going to stop have concerts on Saturdays? How
do you feel about it?
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________

You are a member of a music club.

We are sorry to inform you that from next month membership fees will go up by
15%. Also, due to maintenance the club’s website will not be available from
between 2 pm to 6 pm for the next two weeks. Please free to e-mail us
customerservice@aptismusic.com

Write an e-mail to your friend. Write about your feelings and what you think
the club should do about the situation. Write about 50 words.
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________

Write an e-mail to Customer Services. Write about your feelings and what
you think the club should do about the situation. Write 120-150 words.
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________

Aptis History Club – use 20 to 30 words

Please write some of the reasons why you are interested in history.
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________

Aptis History Club

Sam: Hi! Welcome to the chat room. I was interested in history at school and I
studied it in university. What about you?
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________

Miguel: Welcome! Can you tell me something about the history of your country?
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________

Michelle: Who is your favourite person from history and why are you interested in
him or her?
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________

You are a member of a History Club.

Dear Member,
We are writing to tell you that the trip to Blackrock Castle has been cancelled
because of lack of interest. You will be given a refund for the cost of the coach
trip. However because this is a late cancellation we cannot refund the cost of your
entrance ticket to the castle. We apologized for this and thank you for your
understanding.

Write an e-mail to your friend. Write about your feelings and what you think
the club should do about the situation. Write about 50 words.
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________

Write an e-mail to the president of the club. Write about your feelings and
what you think the club should do about the situation. Write 120-150 words.
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________

Aptis Health Club – Use 20-30 words.

Please tell us the classes you want to take and what days and times are
suitable for you.
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
Aptis Health Club – use 30-40 words.
Jim: Hi! Welcome to the club. My name is Jim and I will be your fitness
instructor. How did you hear about the club?
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________

Jim: And what do you expect to achieve?

__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________

Jim: I am sure we’ll be able to help you achieve your goals. What is your opinion
of the facilities so far?
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________

You are a member of a History Club. You received this email from the club’s
manager.
Dear Member,
We regret to inform you that for personal reasons your instructor will be away for
the next two weeks. You will be able to use the facilities but the instructor will not
be available to assist you. We thank you for your understanding in this matter.

Write an e-mail to your friend, who is also a member of the club. Write about
your feelings and what you think the club should do about the situation. Write
about 50 words.

__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________

Write an e-mail to the manager of the club. Write about your feelings and
what you think the club should do about the situation. Write 120-150 words.
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
Aptis Language Club – Use 20-30 words.
Please write about your free time and interests.
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________

Aptis Language Club – use 30-40 words.

Star: Hi! Welcome to the chat room. I have been learning here for about 6 months.
Why did you choose this course?
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________

Star: It’s great isn’t it? How have you found the course so far? What’s been
difficult?
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________

Star: Me too! What are you hoping to do when you finish the course?
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________

You have joined an online language course. You have been learning the
language for a few months.
Your friend is interested in learning the language too.

Write an e-mail to your friend recommending the course and give advice on
how to improve. Write about 50 words.

__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________

You don’t have time to finish your language course. Write an e-mail to the
customer service team telling them why you can’t continue, and say what you
think about the course. Write 120-150 words.
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________

Aptis Sports Club – Use 20-30 words

Please tell us about the days and times you can come and activities you enjoy.
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________

Aptis Sports Club Chat – use 30-40 words per answer.

J: Hi! I hear you’re a new member of the sports club. I have been a member for
about 2 years after my friend gave me a year’s membership as a gift. Why did you
join?
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________

J: I love it. How do you feel about the club?

__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________

J: I agree. What do you think about the swimming pool closing?

__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________

You are a member of a sports club. On your last visit to club you saw the
notice below.
Dear Members,
We are sorry to tell you that from next month membership fees will go up by a
minimum of 15%. Also, due to maintenance, we will close from 4pm on
Wednesdays for the next four weeks. Please feel free to email us at
kjmn@goodhealth.com.
Write an e-mail to a friend. Write your feelings about the notice and suggest
possible alternatives. Write about 50 words.

__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________

Also, write an e-mail to the customer service team explaining your feelings
about the notice and suggesting possible alternatives. Write 120-150 words.

__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________

TASK 1: Fill in the form. You have 3 minutes.

TASK 2: You’ve joined the ‘ORDER MEALS ONLINE’ site. Fill in the form.
Write in sentences. Use 20-30 words. You have 7 minutes.

MEMBER FORM
Please tell us about your favourite food and time when you prefer to have
your meals.
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
TASK 3: You are a member of MEALS DELIVERY ONLINE. You’re talking
to J. in the customer chat room. Talk to J. using complete sentences. Use 30 to
40 words per answer. You have 10 minutes
J. Hi! I see you’re new here. I joined a year ago after I started living alone. Why
did you join?
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
J. What do you think about the service?
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
J. How do you feel about the recent rise in the price of pizzas? It was 20% cheaper
before.
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________

TASK 4: You are a member of ‘MEALS DELIVERY ONLINE’. On your last

visit to their website you saw the notice below. Dear valued customers,
We are sorry to inform you that from next month we have to introduce a fee for the
meals’ delivery. It will constitute 10% of the meal order. We have to introduce this
measure to reduce the high costs involved in delivering the meals.
If you have any comments or suggestions, please feel free to email us at
customer.service@mealsonline.com

Write an email to a friend who also uses the MEALS DELIVERY ONLINE
service. Write your feelings about the notice and suggest possible alternatives.
Write about 50 words. You have 10 minutes.
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________

Now, write an email to the Customer Service Team, explaining your feelings
about the notice and suggesting possible alternatives. Write 120-150 words.
You have 20 minutes.
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________