B1 Upper-Intermediate Writing · Lesson 10
Write an Email to Resolve a Misunderstanding
Learn to explain a misunderstanding calmly, clarify what happened, and suggest a constructive next step.
B1 Upper-IntermediateInformal/semi-formal clarification email30 min120–130 words
Lesson progress
Explanation · 1 / 4
Study the structure and model before completing the three exercises.
Learning objective
Write a polite email that acknowledges a misunderstanding, explains your perspective without blaming, apologises where appropriate, and proposes a solution.
Model text
Hi Elena,
I wanted to write about yesterday’s meeting because I think there was a misunderstanding. When I said that the report was not ready, I was referring only to the final charts, not to your section. I realise my comment sounded as if I was blaming you for the delay, and I am sorry for that. Your part was actually completed on time, and I should have explained the situation more clearly. The charts were late because I received the sales figures that morning and needed to update them. I hope this clears things up. Perhaps we could have a short call tomorrow before the next meeting, so we can make sure we both have the same information. Please let me know what time suits you.
Best,
Martin
I wanted to write about yesterday’s meeting because I think there was a misunderstanding. When I said that the report was not ready, I was referring only to the final charts, not to your section. I realise my comment sounded as if I was blaming you for the delay, and I am sorry for that. Your part was actually completed on time, and I should have explained the situation more clearly. The charts were late because I received the sales figures that morning and needed to update them. I hope this clears things up. Perhaps we could have a short call tomorrow before the next meeting, so we can make sure we both have the same information. Please let me know what time suits you.
Best,
Martin
How to write
1
Refer to the misunderstanding calmly
2
Explain what you meant or what happened
3
Acknowledge the other person’s perspective
4
Apologise if your words or actions caused a problem
5
Suggest a practical next step
Useful language
I think there was a misunderstanding...What I meant was...I realise that...I am sorry for...I hope this clears things up.Perhaps we could...
B1 Upper-Intermediate focus: Develop each main idea with a reason, example, consequence, or reflection. Use a wider range of linkers, but keep the text natural and easy to follow.
Exercises:
Exercise 1 · Language in the model text
Write an Email to Resolve a Misunderstanding
Read the model text closely. Choose the answer that best explains its grammar, vocabulary, linking, or register.
Analyse how the model uses language to achieve the writing purpose.
Exercise 1 · 2 / 4
You need at least 5 correct answers out of 6.
1
Why does Martin write “I think there was a misunderstanding” instead of “You misunderstood me”?
2
What does “only … not …” clarify in the sentence about the report?
3
Why does Martin say “I realise my comment sounded as if I was blaming you”?
4
What does “should have explained” express?
5
Why is “because” used in the sentence about the charts?
6
How does “Perhaps we could…” affect the tone of the proposed call?
Exercise complete. Your progress has been saved.
Exercise 2 · Structure & development
Write an Email to Resolve a Misunderstanding
Use the model text to analyse how its ideas are ordered, connected, developed, and supported.
Analyse the organisation of this specific model text and the function of its details.
Exercise 2 · 3 / 4
You need at least 5 correct answers out of 6.
1
Why does the email clarify the exact meaning of Martin’s comment before giving the cause of the delay?
2
What role does the apology play after the clarification?
3
Why is “Your part was actually completed on time” important?
4
What does the sales-figures detail contribute?
5
Why is a short call suggested after “I hope this clears things up”?
6
Which overall structure is most effective for resolving the misunderstanding?
Exercise complete. Your progress has been saved.
Exercise 3 · Writing
Write an Email to Resolve a Misunderstanding
Learn to explain a misunderstanding calmly, clarify what happened, and suggest a constructive next step.
Complete the writing task.
Exercise 3 · 4 / 4
Write 120–130 words and develop your ideas clearly.
Your task
Write an email to someone after a misunderstanding. Explain what happened from your point of view, clarify your intention, and suggest how to resolve the situation.
- Refer clearly to the misunderstanding.
- Explain your perspective or intention.
- Avoid blaming language.
- Include an apology or acknowledgement where appropriate.
- Give relevant details to clarify the situation.
- Suggest a constructive next step.
- Use a calm and polite closing.
I think there was a misunderstanding...What I meant was...I realise that...I am sorry for...I hope this clears things up.Perhaps we could...
Your writing
0 words · Target: 120–130
Your draft is saved automatically on this device.
Quick check
•Write about 120–130 words
•Use a friendly greeting
•Explain why you are writing
•Develop the message with specific details
•Include a question or next step
•Use a natural friendly closing
•Use several linking expressions
•Use at least 7 clear sentences
Exercise complete. Your writing has passed the lesson check and your progress has been saved.
AI feedback
After the lesson check, get detailed feedback appropriate for this B1 Upper-Intermediate task.