Style
The letter combines personal and formal elements effectively.
The personal elements are:
Using contractions in four cases
Using informal vocabulary (‘pretty shocked/ turn down/sorry/ another party coming up/really want
to’) at times.
Using some personal letter phrases (‘I think I need to/I do feel that/ I hope that you’ll be there.’)
The more formal elements are:
Using formal phrases to make criticism and proposals:
‘I must say that’
‘deserves to be treated with respect’
‘apologise for being so impolite’
‘make a greater effort to control your temper’
Using formal language for criticism and proposals is done in English to emphasise the writer’s
serious attitude and sense of concern; this is effective in this letter. The use of the ‘first name + family
name’ at the end (rather than just the first name) emphasises this seriousness again.
Content
The candidate
has used three logical paragraphs to organise the three content ideas, and
these are very clear to see. The three sections are roughly the same length, so the letter feels well
balanced. The invented details are simple and relevant.
Remember: when you’re in the exam, don’t waste time thinking of names! Have a simple, common
English first name and family name in your mind, so that you are ready to write either a personal,
semi-formal or formal letter. Use your real name at the end; there’s no reason to invent a name for
yourself.
Model letter 10: Apologising (personal and formal styles)
Example Task 10
You have arranged a weekend holiday with a group of friends, but due to your studies you will now
be unable to go with them. Write to your friends, and
Tell them why you are unable to go
Say sorry for this
Suggest an alternative activity at another time
Begin your letter ‘Dear --------’
Do not write any addresses
Write at least 150 words
Explanation of the Task
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