What is OET Writing Structure?

The OET writing sub-test takes about 45 minutes to complete and is profession specific just like OET
Speaking sub-test. In OET writing sub-test, there is a task set for each profession based on demanding
workplace situations of the profession. In OET writing, the test takers are required to write a letter, usually
a referral letter. Sometimes, candidates are also asked to write a different type of letter, which can be a
letter of transfer or discharge, a letter to advise or inform a patient, relative or carer. For the OET writing
section, candidates will receive task instructions along with stimulus material such as case notes or other
documentation. Candidates can use this material while writing their responses.

The performance of the candidates in OET writing sub-test is marked independently by a minimum of two
trained assessors. None of the assessors know what scores the other has given you either in the writing
or other subtests. The performance of the candidates is assessed against five criteria, which are
mentioned below-

Overall Task Fulfillment

Appropriateness of Language
Linguistic Features (Cohesion and Grammar)
Comprehension of Stimulus
Presentation Features (Spelling, punctuation and layout)

OET Nursing Referral Letter Example

In this article, we will explain how to attempt OET writing subtest and what things you need to borne in
mind while writing a letter. Before we share the tips and tricks to get maximum scores in the OET writing
sub-test, we will share an example so that you can better understand what kind of letter will be and how
you are doing to attempt it.

OET Writing Task

First of all, you will receive case notes and a task. The candidates are required to select from the case
notes according to the purpose of the task, create a logical structure for your letter and then write a letter
in your words. Below is the writing task.

Using the information provided in the case notes, write a letter to Lucy Fernandes, Senior Nurse at Get
Well Soon Hospital, 76, Whitewalls, who will be taking care of Rose Mathew at Nursing Home.

In your answer,

Expand the relevant notes into complete sentences

Do not use note form
Use letter format

The body of the letter should be 180-200 words.

Answer

76, Vulture Street,

Get Well Soon Hospital , Whitewall.

Dear Maam

Re: Rose Mathew

DOB- 13-9-1995

I am writing to refer this patient, a 22 year old, single mother who had been suffering from bronchitis
allergy. She was admitted to hospital on 5th April, 2017. She was facing difficulty in breathing and has
extremely bad chest congestion accompanied with high fever and chest congestion. She delivered a
baby 5 months through caesarean section. Her blood examination reports revealed low number in
hemoglobin. Rose has no relatives in Sydney and has no contact with her family. She lives in a rented
apartment with other working woman and is on single mothers pension.

My main concern is that she is not physically fit and feels lonely. She is considering adoption of her 5
months old baby. It would be really appreciated if you organize a home visit for Rose and her baby. Rose
requires appropriate advice and encouragement to take good care of herself and her baby due to her
isolated circumstances.

Thank you for agreeing to assist in this matter. Should you require any further information, please do not
hesitate to contact me.

Yours Sincerely,

Charge Nurse,

Harlow Ikkon

OET Nursing Referral Letter Writing Tips

1. Take care of spelling Spelling, along with layout and punctuation are the main aspects included under
presentation features (one of the criteria under which assessment is done). When you are writing, take care
of spelling, because spelling mistakes will be taken account of in your presentation features scores.
2. Write within the writing limits- Your marks will not be deducted if your write over or under the word range
(180-200 words). However, if you write more than 200 words, you will not get time to proofread your letter.
Always spare some time at the end to proofread your letter against mistakes.
3. Use accepted layout: A number of layouts and letter formats are accepted by health professionals in
different contexts. It is important that your letter is clearly laid out and is appropriate for the particular task.
There is no set layout to follow in the OET writing task.
4. Use accepted abbreviations: Candidates are allowed to use accepted abbreviations in the OET writing
subtest. Before you use any short form or abbreviation, ensure you use the accepted short forms or
abbreviations. You can get information about the accepted abbreviations in the OET Preparation Support
Pack.