Mastering Formal Letters: The Art of Polite Communication

Mastering Formal Letters: The Art of Polite Communication

Learning Objective

At the end of the lesson, you will be able to understand the rules and conventions for writing a formal letter, including style, layout, and other important elements.

What do you already know about writing formal letters?

Understanding Formal Letters

Formal letters are used for official or professional communication and follow specific style and layout guidelines.

(dus denk aan een sollicitatiebrief, een klachten brief, een reactie op een advertentie etc.)

Components of a Formal Letter

A formal letter includes the sender's address, date, recipient's address, salutation, body, closing, and signature.

Components of a Formal Letter

A formal letter includes the sender's address, date, recipient's address, salutation, body, closing, and signature.

Style and Tone

Formal letters should use polite language, avoid contractions, and maintain a respectful and professional tone.

Layout and Formatting

The layout of a formal letter includes proper alignment, clear paragraphs, and appropriate spacing. Formatting should be consistent and professional.

Addressing the Recipient

It's important to use the correct title and name of the recipient, as well as to be mindful of cultural considerations when addressing the recipient.

Closing and Sign-Off

The closing should be polite and may include phrases such as 'Sincerely' or 'Yours faithfully,' followed by the sender's signature and printed name.

Practice and Application

Students will practice writing a formal letter following the rules and conventions learned in the lesson.

Write down 3 things you learned in this lesson.

Have students enter three things they learned in this lesson. With this they can indicate their own learning efficiency of this lesson.

Write down 2 things you want to know more about.

Here, students enter two things they would like to know more about. This not only increases involvement, but also gives them more ownership.

Ask 1 question about something you haven't quite understood yet.

The students indicate here (in question form) with which part of the material they still have difficulty. For the teacher, this not only provides insight into the extent to which the students understand/master the material, but also a good starting point for the next lesson.