Lesson plan Theme: Formal and informal language Learning Objective

During Reading

If you use language that’s too formal or too informal, you can give a bad impression. Let’s look at some differences between formal and informal English.

Have students complete the e-mail message. Ask them do you think the language is formal or informal – and why?

Dear Mrs Brown

I’am writing to find out whether you have any jobs in your company this summer.

At the mo I’m studying Economics at uni.

I have been working part-time in a shop and recently they promoted me to the role of manager.

I am enthusiastic. I work hard. I pay attention to detail.

Next, students tell choice of vocabulary.

More common words: jobs=vacancies

Phrasal Verbs: find out=enquire

Abbreviations, Contractions, Shortened Forms Of Verbs: At the mo=at the moment (more informal)=currently (formal)

uni=university

Change Some Active Voice To Passive Voice: they promoted me = I was promoted

We can use short, simple sentence in informal. Whereas formal english , we use complex structures:

I am enthusiastic. I work hard. I pay attention to detail.

=I am an enthusiastic person who works hard and pays attention to detail.