Formal and Informal Writing in English

Formal and Informal Writing in English

Learning Objective

At the end of the lesson, you will be able to differentiate between formal and informal letters in English and understand the conventions for writing each type. Additionally, you will be able to identify common mistakes, such as using colloquial language in writing assignments.

Explain the learning objective to the students and emphasize the importance of understanding the differences between formal and informal writing in English.

What do you already know about formal and informal writing in English?

Slide 1: Introduction

What is the difference between formal and informal writing? Formal writing is used in professional or official contexts, while informal writing is more casual and relaxed. Let's explore the conventions for each type of writing.

Engage the students by asking them to share their understanding of formal and informal writing. Use examples to illustrate the differences between the two.

Slide 2: Formal Letters

Formal letters are used for official purposes, such as job applications, business correspondence, or formal invitations. They follow a specific structure and use formal language.

Explain the purpose and importance of formal letters in various contexts. Provide examples of formal letters to familiarize students with the format and language used.

Slide 3: Conventions for Formal Letters

When writing a formal letter, it's important to use a polite and respectful tone. Begin with the recipient's address and a formal salutation, such as 'Dear Mr./Ms.' Use proper grammar and avoid contractions or slang. End the letter with a formal closing, such as 'Yours sincerely' or 'Kind regards', followed by your name and signature.

Highlight the key conventions for writing formal letters and explain the purpose of each element. Provide examples and encourage students to practice writing their own formal letters using the given conventions.

Slide 4: Informal Letters

Informal letters are used for personal communication or casual purposes, such as writing to friends or family. They have a more relaxed tone and use informal language.

Explain the purpose and characteristics of informal letters. Discuss situations where informal letters are commonly used and encourage students to share their experiences with writing informal letters.

Slide 5: Conventions for Informal Letters

When writing an informal letter, you can use a more casual tone and language. Begin with a friendly salutation, such as 'Hi' or 'Dear [Name]'. Use conversational language and contractions. End the letter with a less formal closing, such as 'Take care' or 'Best wishes', followed by your name.

Introduce the conventions for writing informal letters and explain how they differ from formal letters. Provide examples and encourage students to practice writing their own informal letters using the given conventions.

Slide 6: Common Mistakes in Writing

Using colloquial language, excessive abbreviations, or slang in writing assignments is a common mistake. It's important to maintain a formal tone and use proper grammar and vocabulary.

Discuss common mistakes made in writing assignments, particularly in the context of formal and informal writing. Remind students of the importance of maintaining a formal tone and using appropriate language.

Slide 7: Exercise: Formal or Informal?

In this exercise, you will read a set of sentences and determine whether they are examples of formal or informal writing. Discuss your answers with a partner.

Provide the students with a set of sentences and ask them to identify whether each sentence represents formal or informal writing. Encourage them to discuss their answers with a partner to promote active engagement.

Slide 8: Exercise: Correct the Mistakes

In this exercise, you will identify and correct the mistakes in a given piece of writing. Pay attention to the use of formal and informal language.

Provide a sample piece of writing that contains both formal and informal language. Ask students to identify and correct the mistakes to reinforce their understanding of the differences and conventions for formal and informal writing.

Slide 9: Review

Let's review what we have learned so far. Formal writing is used in professional or official contexts and follows specific conventions, while informal writing is more casual and relaxed. Using colloquial language in writing assignments is a common mistake that should be avoided.

Summarize the key points covered in the lesson and check for understanding. Encourage students to ask any remaining questions before moving on to the next activity.

Slide 10: Writing Task

For the final task, you will choose a topic and write both a formal and an informal letter. Pay attention to the conventions we discussed and avoid common mistakes. You will have [insert time limit] to complete this task.

Assign a writing task to the students where they have to write both a formal and an informal letter on a chosen topic. Provide clear instructions and set a time limit for completion.

Slide 11: Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the differences between formal and informal writing in English is essential for effective communication. By following the conventions and avoiding common mistakes, you can improve your writing skills and convey your message appropriately in different contexts.

Summarize the main points of the lesson and emphasize the importance of applying the knowledge gained in real-life situations. Encourage students to continue practicing their formal and informal writing skills.

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.