Writing bank Useful expressions and conventions in a formal letter If we know the name of the person we are writing to, we begin Dear Mr/Mrs/Ms and their surname. Finish with Yours sincerely, followed by your name . If we don’t know the name of the person we are writing to, we begin Dear Sir or Madam. Finish with Yours faithfully , followed by your name. In formal letters, we do not use contractions, e.g. we write I would, not I’d. We often use more formal words and expressions, e.g. I would be very grateful for the opportunity instead of I’d be really happy for the chance. We often start formal letters with I am writing to … and then explain why we are writing. We often end formal letters with expressions like I look forward to receiving your reply. 5 Use this paragraph plan to help organise your letter. Polite opening: (Dear …) Paragraph 1: Say which project you’re applying for. Paragraph 2: Describe your personal qualities and give examples. Paragraph 3: Thank them for considering your application. Paragraph 4: End the letter in a formal way.
Task Write a formal letter to apply for the volunteer trip. Say which project you are applying for and give reasons to show why you are a good candidate. Use around 170 words.
Go VOL – Volunteer Trip for Young People – NEW!
Go VOL
Prepare 4 Read the advertisement for volunteer trips next year. Answer the questions. 1 Which project would you like to apply for? Have you got a good level of English? Do you play sports and/or music? Are you good at working with children/in a multicultural team? Please send a letter of application to this address . Apply now for one of next year’s two-week volunteer projects. Make a difference in the world! India – Community School Help to construct a community school in India and assist in teaching English to a class of young children. Thailand – Help the elephants Help rescue elephants and bring them back to their natural habitat.
2 What personal qualities are they looking for?
3 What examples can you include to demonstrate you have the personal qualities they are looking for?
Write 6 Write your letter. Use your notes, the paragraph plan, the writing model on the opposite page and the Writing bank to help you.
Check 7 Read your letter and complete the checklist. 1 I used the paragraph plan. 2 I said why I’m writing. 3 I showed that I have all the personal qualities they are looking for.
4 I used appropriate formal language. 5 I used the full form of verbs.
Unit 5
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