Afstemming taal doel & publiek

• Engels
• MBO
• Studiejaar 1

Mastering the Art of Business Email Writing

Learning Goal

At the end of this lesson, you have been introduced to the different levels of formality in business emails.

Explain to students the end goal of the lesson.

What do you already know about writing professional emails?

Introduction

Business emails are an essential part of communication in the modern-day workplace. Let's dive into the different levels of formality in business emails.

Audience: Different levels of formality are appropriate for different audiences. Knowing your audience and what level of formality is expected or appropriate can help you communicate effectively and build rapport with your audience.

Professionalism: Business writing is often used to convey important information, make requests, and build relationships. Using the appropriate level of formality shows that you take communication seriously and that you are a professional.

Clarity: Different levels of formality can affect the clarity of your message. Using overly formal language can make your message sound stiff and difficult to understand, while using overly casual language can make it sound unprofessional and unclear.

Tone: The level of formality in your writing can also affect the tone of your message. Choosing the appropriate level of formality can help you strike the right tone for your communication.

Branding: In business writing, consistency is key. Using the appropriate level of formality can help you maintain consistency in your brand messaging and image.

Level 1: Informal

This level is used in emails to friends or colleagues. It usually includes casual language and a friendly tone. Example:

  'Hey, can you send me the report when you get a chance?'

Explain to students that the first level of formality is informal and give an example. Ask students if they have ever used this level of formality in their emails.

Level 2: Semi-formal/neutral

This level is used in emails to people you know but are not close with. It includes a polite tone and formal language. Example: 'Dear Mr. Smith, I hope this email finds you well. Could you please send me the report by Friday?'

Explain to students that the second level of formality is semi-formal and give an example. Ask students if they have ever used this level of formality in their emails.

Level 3: Formal

This level is used in emails to people you do not know well or to those in positions of authority. It includes very polite and respectful language. Example: 'Dear Professor Johnson, I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to inquire about the research opportunity you mentioned in class.'

Explain to students that the third level of formality is formal and give an example. Ask students if they have ever used this level of formality in their emails.

Level 4: Ultra-formal

This level is used in emails to people of extreme authority or importance. It includes the most respectful language and formal tone. Example: 'Dear Your Majesty, I am writing to express my deepest gratitude for the honour of being invited to your reception.'

Explain to students that the fourth level of formality is ultra-formal and give an example. Ask students if they have ever used this level of formality in their emails.

'May I humbly request your presence at the meeting?'

1. Semi-formal
2. Ultra-formal
3. Formal
4. Informal

'Could you kindly send me the report?'

1. Formal
2. Informal
3. Semi-formal
4. Ultra-formal

'Hey, what's up?'

1. Ultra-formal
2. Semi-formal
3. Formal
4. Informal

TWO OPTIONS

Option 1: Sit in the inner circle and complete the handout together.

Option 2: Sit in the outer circle and complete the handout individually, ask for the answers when you're finished.

Finished -> Scan QR code, complete exercises, and then complete portfolio assignment (Teams)

When to Use Each Level

It is important to use the appropriate level of formality based on the recipient of the email and the context of the situation.

Explain to students that it is essential to know when to use each level of formality and why it is important.

Which level of formality is appropriate when speaking with a professor (teacher)?

1. Informal
2. Semi-formal
3. Ultra-formal
4. Formal

What level of formality is appropriate when writing a letter to your best friend?

1. Ultra-formal
2. Semi-formal
3. Formal
4. Informal

Which level of formality is appropriate for a job interview?

1. Informal
2. Semi-formal
3. Formal
4. Ultra-formal

Write down 1 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 1 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.

Any 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.