Explanation
Exercises
B2 Pre-Advanced Writing · Lesson 9

Write a Formal Request and Justify It

A formal request becomes stronger when politeness is supported by a clear reason and a realistic action the reader can take.

B2 Pre-AdvancedFormal request email35 min185–195 words
Lesson progress
Explanation · 1 / 4
Study the model carefully: both practice exercises ask questions about this exact text.
Learning objective

You will learn to state the purpose formally, justify the request with relevant evidence, use appropriately indirect language, and propose a specific solution.

Model text

Dear Ms Patel, I am writing on behalf of several residents regarding the increasing number of bicycles being left in the entrance hall of Willow Court. We understand that many residents cycle to work and that the existing outdoor racks are often full. However, bicycles in the entrance are narrowing the main exit and making access difficult for parents with pushchairs and residents with limited mobility. Rather than banning bicycles from the building without providing an alternative, I would like to suggest converting part of the unused storage room beside the rear entrance into secure cycle parking. The room already has external access and appears large enough for approximately twenty wall-mounted racks. A keypad lock could restrict access to residents, while a small annual fee could contribute to installation and maintenance costs. This solution would keep the main entrance clear without discouraging residents from using bicycles. If the management company is open to the idea, I would be happy to collect residents’ views and obtain two or three estimates from local suppliers. Could this proposal be discussed at the next residents’ meeting? Yours sincerely, Daniel Morris

How to write

1
State the formal purpose of the request
2
Explain the current problem with concrete impact
3
Propose a specific solution rather than a vague demand
4
Justify why the request would benefit the people affected
5
Close with a polite request for consideration or discussion

Useful language

I am writing on behalf of...However,...Rather than...I would like to suggest...If ... is open to the idea,...Could this proposal...?

B2 Pre-Advanced focus: Develop ideas with specific evidence, varied linking, precise vocabulary, and a register appropriate to the text type.

Exercises:
1
2
3
Exercise 1 · Language in the model text

Write a Formal Request and Justify It

Read the model text closely. Analyse the exact grammar, vocabulary, linking, stance, and register choices.

Answer questions about this lesson’s unique model text.
Exercise 1 · 2 / 4
You need at least 5 correct answers out of 6.
Which excerpt most clearly performs this writing move: “State the issue and who is affected”?
What is the main writing function of “Rather than banning bicycles” in “Rather than banning bicycles from the building without providing an alternative, I would like to suggest converting part of…”?
Which excerpt best demonstrates this writing move: “Propose a specific alternative”?
Why does the writer use “If the management company is open to the idea” in “If the management company is open to the idea, I would be happy to collect residents’ views and obtain two or three estimate…”?
What does “A keypad lock could restrict access to residents, while a small annual fee could contribute to installation and maintenance…” mainly achieve in this model?
Why is “Could this proposal be discussed at the next residents’ meeting?” effective near the end of the text?
Exercise 2 · Structure and development

Write a Formal Request and Justify It

Read the model text closely. Analyse how its ideas are ordered, developed, connected, and concluded.

Answer questions about this lesson’s unique model text.
Exercise 2 · 3 / 4
You need at least 5 correct answers out of 6.
Where does “Write a Formal Request and Justify It” first establish its central situation or purpose?
Which detail does the most work to develop the second stage of the text: “Acknowledge the legitimate reason behind the problem”?
Why does “The room already has external access and appears large enough for approximately twenty wall-mounted racks.” follow the preceding idea “Rather than banning bicycles from the building without providing an alternative, I would like…”?
What structural role does “A keypad lock could restrict access to residents, while a small annual fee could contribute to installation and maintenance…” play in this model?
Why does the model place “Could this proposal be discussed at the next residents’ meeting?” near the end?
Which sequence best represents the organisation of “Write a Formal Request and Justify It”?
Exercise 3 · Independent writing

Write a Formal Request and Justify It

Apply the writing skills you analysed in this lesson’s model text.

Complete the writing task independently.
Exercise 3 · 4 / 4
Write 185–195 words. Up to 205 words is accepted.
Your task

Make a formal request, justify why it is reasonable, and propose a specific practical action. Use your own ideas and examples; do not copy the model text.

  • Use an appropriate formal greeting
  • State the request or proposal clearly
  • Justify the request with a specific problem or impact
  • Propose a practical action rather than a vague demand
  • Use polite formal request language
  • Finish with an appropriate formal closing
I am writing on behalf of...However,...Rather than...I would like to suggest...If ... is open to the idea,...Could this proposal...?
Your writing
0 words · Target: 185–195

Your draft is saved automatically on this device.

Quick check
•Write about 185–195 words
•Use an appropriate formal greeting
•State the request or proposal clearly
•Justify the request with a specific problem or impact
•Propose a practical action rather than a vague demand
•Use polite formal request language
•Finish with an appropriate formal closing
•Use at least 8 clear sentences
AI feedback

Pass the lesson check first, then get detailed B2 feedback.