Write an informal email that fulfils the task
Plan a 120–160 word informal email by covering each prompt and adapting the voice to a friend or relative.
Exam scope and assessment notes
Cambridge IGCSE English as a Second Language 0510 (Speaking Endorsement), exams 2027–2029. Component 3 is separately endorsed and does not contribute to the overall grade for the written components. The current syllabus has four reading exercises and two writing exercises in Component 1; there is no summary-writing task. The added voice uses browser speech for original prompts, not Cambridge audio; local speech recording is for self-review, not official pronunciation scoring.
Before you begin
- The syllabus is intended for learners who already have a working knowledge of English. Check the syllabus and your centre's arrangements for the examination year.
Work on paper. Try each question before revealing help, and explain why your method works.
Quick readiness check
Which opening best suits an email to a friend?
What you will learn
- Select relevant information for the task
- Explain how wording and context support an answer
- Communicate clearly for the stated purpose
Turn the rubric into a checklist
Identify the purpose, audience, format and every prompt. Plan one clear point for each prompt before drafting.
A friendly greeting and natural closing help establish an informal relationship, but the message still needs clear organisation and complete ideas.
Develop ideas and check the word range
Explain or illustrate each point rather than listing bare facts. Use linking words, varied but accurate sentences and specific vocabulary.
Aim for 120–160 words. Check that the email answers every prompt, stays readable and does not use an unsuitable formal register.
Pause and explain
What is a good final check for a 120–160 word email?
Worked example
Task: write to a friend about a weekend activity, say what you enjoyed and suggest one improvement. A useful plan is: activity and place; one specific enjoyable moment; a practical change for next time.
Show the worked solution
- The first sentence establishes the activity.
- A specific moment develops the response instead of simply saying 'it was fun'.
- The suggestion completes the final prompt.
Answer A friendly email with all three points developed in a clear sequence.
Try a topic test
Choose Easy, Normal or Difficult. Save your answers and open worked review after finishing.
Test this topic →From guided practice to a new situation
Write your answer and reasoning first. Use a hint only if you are stuck. The model solution is for self-checking; your written work is not automatically marked.
Write a short informal response plan for a friend asking about a new hobby: explain what you tried, what was difficult and whether you would continue.
Give me a hint
Use one point for each part of the prompt.
Compare my reasoning
- Name the hobby and when you tried it.
- Give a specific difficulty and how you handled it.
- State whether you would continue and explain why.
A three-point plan that names the hobby, develops one difficulty and gives a reasoned decision.
Look for these in your work
- All prompts addressed
- Reason included
A task asks you to email a cousin about a school event: what happened, your favourite part and one recommendation for next year. What should each paragraph do?
Give me a hint
Organise the email around the task, not a general event story.
Compare my reasoning
- Open with the event and its main activity.
- Describe one favourite moment and why it mattered.
- Give a specific recommendation for next year.
A focused email that explains the event, develops a favourite part and makes one practical recommendation.
Look for these in your work
- Three prompts covered
- Details stay relevant
A draft to a friend says, 'Dear Committee, I wish to formally express my dissatisfaction.' How could you adjust the register while keeping the complaint clear?
Give me a hint
Keep the message direct, but match the relationship.
Compare my reasoning
- Replace the formal salutation with a personal greeting.
- State the problem in natural conversational language.
- Keep the specific request or suggestion.
For example: 'Hi Sam, I was disappointed that the event started late. Could we share the schedule earlier next time?'
Look for these in your work
- Audience matched
- Concern remains clear
Common mistakes
- Ignoring one of the prompts
- Using formal report language for a friend
- Listing ideas without explaining them
What can you explain now?
What should you do before drafting an email response?
Compare with the explanation
Identify the purpose, audience, format and each prompt
These define what the response must accomplish.
After trying it yourself, choose your next review. This is your self-assessment.
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Make it stick
How does audience change the language and format of your writing?
If you needed the solution, close it and solve the problem again from a blank page. A correct answer is stronger when you can explain the reason for each step.