Unit 4: Literacy


Although this student has taken a light-hearted approach to the subject, all the correct conventions for informal letters or emails are present. Te tone is suitable for a personal email and reveals the character of the writer.


Now look at a different approach to the same question: Sample informal letter


64 Fernview Park, Ballybeg, Co. Donegal


23rd May 2020 Dear Anne,


It feels so long since we last met, or even wrote to each other. How are you and all your family? We are all fine here in Donegal and send good wishes to your parents and brother.


The weather has been dreadful for the last few months. We hardly saw the face of the sun for more than a few hours this month and it’s the first month of summer. However, that’s all about to change I hope.


My parents are bringing us to Portugal for a family holiday in July and the best part of it is that they are allowing me to bring a friend along. Brian is outgoing and makes friends easily but I’m less confident and often end up hanging around with my parents all day. It’s so boring!


I would just love it if you would come along with us on this holiday Anne. We could do so many fun things together. There is a fabulous beach near our apartment and we also have our own swimming pool. It’s not very big, but it is wonderful to cool down in when the sun is scorching. We are quite near to an old village which has some lovely little shops and boutiques and the clothes are quite cheap. I know you love clothes! In addition, we can go for long walks, chat, listen to music and catch up on the gossip. There are a few activities for teenagers in the next resort, but I know you’re a bit like me when it comes to deafening disco music and non-stop guzzling of junk food. It’s just awful. Most of those teenagers are just acting a part and following the crowd I think.


Please ask your parents if they will allow you to join us. We’re going from the 10th to the 24th July. My parents will pay for the tickets etc. All you need to do is pack and make sure you bring enough money to shop in the boutiques.


I am looking forward to hearing from you soon. Please come. Love, Jennifer


Te tone here is quite different from the previous sample but it addresses the task set in the question. Te language here is more restrained and is effective in conveying the quiet, refined but slightly judgemental writer. One gets the sense that she is pleading for company and is a lonely kind of person. All standard letter writing conventions are observed.


Tip: A good personal letter or email will always reveal something of the character or personality of the writer and their relationship with the recipient, unlike a formal letter which is more business-like and detached in approach.


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Imagine that you are Anne. Write a response to Jennifer’s letter.


137


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