Letters Types of letters

Conclusion (Final paragraph) closing remarks

* The number of main body paragraphs may vary, depending on the rubric.

FORMAL STYLE

Formal style is characterized by the use of:

• advanced vocabulary

e.g. I am writing to enquire whether …… (not: I want to ask it)

• formal linking words / phrases

(consequently, however, therefore, for this reason)

e.g. I have worked as a primary school teacher for ten years and therefore have experience working with children.

• passive voice

• passive voice

e.g. I can be contacted ….. (not: You can contact me)

• polite forms without contractions

e.g. I would be grateful if …… ,

I would appreciate it if you could...

I would like to apply ...

(not: I’d like ….)

Colloquial expressions, phrasal verbs, idioms and short forms are not used in formal style.

Semi-formal letter structure

Introduction (Paragraph 1) opening remorks /reasons for writing

Main body (Paragraph 2-3-4*) development of the subject(s)

Conclusion (Final paragraph) closing remarks

* The number of main body paragraphs may vary, depending on the rubric.

SEMI-FORMAL STYLE

Semi-formal style is characterized by:

• the use of less colloquial language e.g. Thank you very much tor your letter. (instead of: Thanks a million for your letter.)

• less frequent use of short forms, phrasal verbs or idioms e.g. I am writing to request information about ... (instead of: I thought I'd drop you a line to ask about ...)

• a polite, respectful tone e.g. I was wondering if you had...

(instead of: Do you have ...)

Example:

Informal	Formal	Semi-formal
Thanks a lot for the invitation. I'd love to come to your party.	I would be delighted to attend your birthday celebration.	Thank you for your kind invitation. I would love to join you on your birthday.

5
3
1
2
8
7
4
6
9

1	Letter to uncle. Thanking uncle for birthday present.
2	Write a letter of complaint against poor service at the restaurant.
3	You are studying overseas. You need to return to your country for a family event. Write a letter to your supervisor asking for permission.
4	Write a letter of complaint defective book that you bought.
5	You are having a graduation party at home next Sunday. You have invited 50 people to celebrate and the party will continue until late night. Write an explanation letter to your elderly neighbor.
6	Write a letter to a friend who has not returned your book.
7	You have had a problem with your neighbor for the past few months. You have not been able to meet with your neighbor to discuss the problem. Write a letter to your neighbor about the problem.
8	Write a letter of complaint about poor bus service.
9	Letter to a friend. Informing about your examinations.