Table of Contents
Directions
Starting January 21, 2026, you will write an email in the TOEFL writing section. You will have seven minutes to read the instructions and write the email. An effective response will contain about 120 words.
Task Scenario & Instructions
📧 Email Scenario
Write an email to Professor.
- Explain the problem origin, i.e., the unexpected personal obligation.
- Provide specific context from the constraint that attendance affects the final grade.
- Ask for guidance on next steps or alternative ways to make up for the absence.
Sample Answers & Evaluation
🏆 Perfect Score (30/30) – The Sophisticated Professional
I am writing to inform you of an unavoidable circumstance that will prevent me from attending tomorrow’s seminar. Regrettably, I am faced with a last-minute family obligation that demands my immediate attention. As the seminar’s attendance is imperative for my final grade, I am exceedingly concerned about the repercussion of my absence.
Understanding the pivotal nature of the topics to be discussed, I am eager to ensure that I remain on track with the course material. I would appreciate your guidance on how I might best rectify this situation. Perhaps there might be supplemental materials or alternative assignments available to cover the missed content?
Thank you for your understanding and support.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Teacher’s Feedback
Score: 30/30
Logic: The email demonstrates a high level of professionalism with a sophisticated tone and proactive approach. There’s a clear understanding of the situation’s academic impact and a request for constructive solutions.
Golden Vocabulary: unavoidable, imperative, exceedingly, repercussion, rectify
Always offer a solution or seek guidance on alternatives when addressing academic concerns.
🏆 High Score (25/30) – The Clear & Polite Achiever
I am writing to let you know that I have an urgent family matter that will prevent me from attending the seminar tomorrow. Since attendance is crucial for my final grade, I am worried about the impact this might have.
Could you advise me on how I might catch up or if there are any tasks I could do as an alternative? I really want to ensure I keep up with the class.
Thank you very much for your understanding.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Teacher’s Feedback
Score: 25/30
Logic: The email is polite and clear with a direct approach, effectively conveys the importance of the issue, and requests guidance for resolving it.
Golden Vocabulary: urgent, crucial, impact
When writing formally, clarity and politeness are as important as the content of your message.