Letter asking a teacher for a reference
This is a model answer written to show what a Band 7 response looks like against the marking criteria. It is a worked example, not a graded submission. To see your own band, paste your writing into the free checker.
The prompt
You are applying for a course or job and would like a former teacher to write you a reference. Write a letter to your former teacher. In your letter:
- remind the teacher who you are
- explain what you are applying for
- say what you would like them to include in the reference
Band 7 model answer (175 words)
Dear Mrs Palmer,
I hope you are keeping well. I am not sure whether you remember me, but I was a student in your biology class at Riverside School and I finished my studies there three years ago. You may recall that I gave a presentation on marine life that we worked on together.
I am writing because I am applying for a place on a university degree in environmental science, and the application asks for a reference from a former teacher. I immediately thought of you, as you taught me for two years and know my work well.
If you are willing to help, I would be very grateful if you could describe my enthusiasm for science and my determination to finish tasks properly. It would also be useful if you could mention the project work I did in your class. The deadline is the end of this month, so any help you can offer would mean a great deal to me.
Thank you very much for considering my request. I look forward to hearing from you.
Kind regards,
Priya Sharma
Why this reaches Band 7
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Task Achievement
All three bullet points are covered: a reminder of who the writer is, what they are applying for, and exactly what the reference should include. The opening "I am not sure whether you remember me" fits the situation naturally.
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Coherence and Cohesion
The letter is logically ordered from the reminder to the request to the details, with clear paragraphing and a polite closing.
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Lexical Resource
Appropriate semi-formal vocabulary such as "a place on a university degree in environmental science", "my enthusiasm for science and my determination to finish tasks properly" and "considering my request".
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy
Controlled complex sentences and a consistent, respectful tone, with the correct named greeting and "Kind regards" sign-off.
The one fix to reach Band 7
A Band 6 letter often forgets to say what the reference should actually cover, or drifts into a casual tone with a teacher. The key fix is to hold a warm but respectful tone and to give clear, specific guidance on what you would like the reference to include.
Now check your own answer.
Paste your own attempt at this prompt and Examinerly names the single criterion keeping you below your target band, and shows the sentence-level fix. We never inflate your band.
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