Warm-up
Answer a few quick questions before today's lesson about birthday parties and giving advice to friends.
Reading
Birthday Party — Reading Quiz: Model Informal Email
Read the model informal email carefully, then answer the questions on the right. Pay attention to how the writer covers all three bullet points, gives advice naturally, and maintains a friendly and enthusiastic tone.
Read the model email carefully, then answer the questions on the right.
Subject: Re: Sam's birthday — some thoughts!
Hi Priya,
Thanks so much for asking me — honestly, I love that you want to make Sam's birthday really special! The picnic idea is absolutely brilliant, especially if the weather is nice. The only thing I'd tweak is the location — the park by the lake is way better than the town square. Much more space and honestly just a nicer vibe!
For food, I'd go with a mix of homemade stuff and things you can buy — sandwiches, a big fruit platter, and maybe some mini cakes instead of a traditional birthday cake. So much easier to serve! As for a gift, I know Sam is really into photography lately, so a photo book of your best memories together would be really thoughtful.
And yes, of course I can help! I'm free that Saturday, so just tell me what you need. I could bring the drinks and help set everything up!
Can't wait!
Love,
Alex
Vocabulary Practice
Three exercises using 12 key words and phrases from the model email and the birthday party topic.
Birthday Party — Vocabulary Practice
Work through all three parts. All 12 words and phrases come from the model email or the birthday party topic.
Writing Task
IGCSE ESL — Writing Task
Enter your name if you would like your teacher to identify your work — this is optional. Click Start when you are ready. The timer will begin immediately.
Teacher Guide
Practise with
- availableadjective
free to use or able to be bought
- brilliantadjective
Extremely good; very clever or impressive.
- celebrationnoun
the act of doing something enjoyable for a special occasion
- homemadeadjective
not bought from a store; made at home
- occasionnoun
a special or important event or time when something happens
- personaladjective
belonging to or affecting one particular person
- platternoun
a large flat plate or board used to serve food, often at a gathering or party
- set upphrasal verb
to start or establish something
- suggestionnoun
An idea, plan, or action that is put forward for consideration.
- thoughtfuladjective
showing careful consideration of other people's needs and feelings; deep in thought.
- tweakverb
to make small changes to improve something that already works well
- vibenoun
the atmosphere or feeling that a place or situation creates, especially an informal one