©2015 Paul Read 7.2 Writing Semi-formal Letters in Part One 7331669/sizes/z/in/photostream

©2015 Paul Read http://www.theenglishsite.com

7.2 Writing Semi-formal Letters in Part One

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7.2 Writing Semi-formal Letters in Part One

• What is a semi-formal letter?• What makes a good answer?• How to plan an answer• Worked example• Extra practice

What is a semi-formal letter?

• A letter to someone that you know in a professional capacity, or where you wish to be polite and respectful

• Usually does not contain contractions or slang

• Uses predictable, set phrases• Has a clear aim and purpose, and

does not go “off topic”, but may add some personal information if needed


What makes a good answer?

• The reader of the letter must clearly understand the situation and the reasons that you are writing to them

• Look carefully at the three pieces of information that you are told to write about, and make sure you include this

• Address the reader by title and name (e.g. Mr Smith), or by their first name if you are on first name terms

• Write a short introduction to explain the situation to the reader of the letter

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How to plan an answer

• The question will tell you what you must include in your answer

• Plan to write one short paragraph about each of the points. You will need to invent some details.

• Write a short introduction to give a context to the situation. Why are you writing?

• Describe each of the main points in turn. Remember not to include unimportant information, to use slang or contractions (like “I’m”)

• Finish the letter with a semi-formal phrase like “Best wishes” or “Best regards” and your full name


Worked Example


You are doing an evening course but have recently started work and find that you do not have much time to study.Write a letter to your tutor. In your letter

• Describe the situation• Explain what effect working is having on your studies• Say what action you would like to take

Worked Example


Dear CassAs you know, I’ve been enrolled on your “Photography for Beginners” course since April, and I’ve enjoyed the course a lot until now.



Worked Example


Since then I’ve got a job as a care worker at a local nursing home which often involves having to work night shifts. I am also working part-time in a shop during the days for the next six weeks.



Worked Example


Because of this extra commitment of time, I have not been able to attend the weekly sessions for the past few weeks, and think I will not be able to attend many future sessions either.



Worked Example


I expect the situation to resolve after I finish working at the shop, in six weeks, but by that time I will have missed a lot of the course.

I was wondering whether it would be possible to defer my studies until September, and join the course when it starts again?



Worked Example


I hope that we can find a solution to these problems: I do enjoy the sessions and I’ve learned a lot!

Best wishes

Paul Read



Extra Practice

• Go to The English Site website to find another semi-formal letter practice exercise

• Look at some student answers to the exercise and read my comments on these answers


©2015 Paul Read 7.2 Writing Semi-formal Letters in Part One 7331669/sizes/z/in/photostream

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