Compare a formal letter and a formal email. Think about the features they have in common and where they differ. Present these similarities and differences in a Venn diagram.
VenN Diagram Formal Letter
Features in common
Formal Email Tips for Writing a Formal Email
Do • Write as though you are writing a formal letter
• State the problem first and then what you hope will happen
• Be polite – as the saying goes, you attract more bees with honey!
Don’t • Use overly casual or familiar language
• Ever use text language – ‘tnx 4 ur email’ • Use emoticons
• Write anything you might later regret. The old idiom ‘Marry in haste, repent at leisure’ applies here also!
D 158 FIRE AND ICE 2
It’s not what you say, it’s the way that you say it …
When you are writing a formal letter or email, it is a good idea to ask questions indirectly as it sounds more polite and respectful.
For example, instead of saying:
‘How much does it cost to stay in your hotel?’ You might say:
‘Could you please inform me about the cost of staying in your hotel?’
Practise this by rewriting the following sentences:
1. Where is your shop? 2. When does the concert start? 3. Do you have a student discount? 4. Are there any jobs going?
