Directed Writing :Writing a Formal Letter

The last time formal letter was tested in SPM was in 2013. From then, rumours have been circulating that formal letter will not be tested in SPM anymore. Whatever it is, students should always be prepared and taught to write formal letter. Students need to learn to write a formal letter not only for examination but also to apply for  jobs or to handle formal events in future. This article will show you a sample of a formal letter written to invite a guest for an event at school

Format of a formal letter 

The task below contains 12 content points need to be written in the formal letter. The columns has been divided into three. For many it may seem to be nothing but the three columns are actually 3 different levels that students need to handle while writing a formal letter.  The first column is easy but the second and third column requires higher order thinking skills (HOTS).  

It is always important to remind students that writing a formal letter requires the use of formal form of the language. The main purpose of the letter should be stated clearly in the first paragraph. 

The next paragraph elaborates details of the event. The rubric requires students to elaborate the date and time, venue, number of participating schools and the teacher in  charge. It is important to take note that all the content points should be elaborated in sentences. Do not write in point forms. 

The next idea elaborates other information. This part of the task is difficult to elaborate if students do not understand the key word such as 'key address'. It is not a plain sail to elaborate all the three content points given below with coherence. However, with more practice it can be done. 

In the paragraph below, the idea on sponsorship request is developed with much explanation on how both parties can benefit from it. This is one good way of elaborating the ideas. Here the idea is developed with maturity. 

The next paragraph, elaborates the reasons for the competition being organised. Every content point is elaborated with supporting ideas which are relevant to the task. 

The elaboration continues to the next paragraph with the student adding on another two reasons of her own as required in the task. Students should take note that when they write their own ideas there should not be any over - lapping of ideas. Try to think of writing something that is different from the rubric. 

The paragraph below shows the ending of the formal letter. Students do not have to write a lengthy ending for a formal letter. Writing ending for a formal letter is rather different. All you have to do is to say some nice words expressing gratitude and appreciation. 

That's all!!!

 Happy Teaching, Happy Learning and Happy Writing!!!