Question 1 Directed Writing: How to Write a Letter

 For Question 1, you might be asked to write a letter, either informal or formal. The question will tell you who you are writing to and why you are writing. Your letter should use ideas and arguments from the reading texts provided, and you will be marked on how well you adapt your writing to suit the purpose, audience, and form, as well as how clearly and effectively you organise your ideas.

Here’s how to approach informal and formal letters.

 

Informal Letter

 An informal letter is written to someone you know well, such as a friend or relative. Even though it’s informal, remember this is still an exam, so avoid using slang or abbreviations like ‘OMG’ or ‘can’t wait 2 c u’.

 

How to Write an Informal Letter 

1. Start Friendly

• Begin with ‘Dear [Name]’ (e.g., ‘Dear Emma’).
• Use a warm opening, such as:

• ‘It was great to hear from you!’
• ‘Sorry I haven’t replied sooner; I’ve been so busy with school.’

 

2. State Why You’re Writing
• The task will give you the purpose (e.g., giving advice, sharing opinions, or explaining something).

 

3. Organise Your Paragraphs
• Use clear paragraphs with topic sentences.
• Stick to one point per paragraph and develop it with examples or explanations.
• Use connectives like ‘Also,’ ‘On the other hand,’ or ‘Because of this...’ to link ideas.

 

4. Finish Lightly
• End with a friendly closing, such as:

• ‘Looking forward to hearing from you soon,’
• ‘Best wishes,’ or ‘Take care.’

Tone and Style

• Keep it personal and conversational, but still use proper spelling, punctuation, and grammar.
• Add a personal touch with details, but don’t make it overly casual or unstructured.

 

Formal Letter

A formal letter is written to someone in authority, such as a headteacher, manager, or the editor of a newspaper. You’ll still use arguments and ideas from the text(s), but your tone must be polite and professional.

 

How to Write a Formal Letter

1. Start Professionally
• Include the date if the layout requires it.
• Use the correct salutation:
• If you don’t know the recipient’s name: ‘Dear Sir/Madam.’
• If you know their name: ‘Dear [Name].’

2. State Your Purpose Clearly
• In your introduction, explain what you are writing about and why.
• Avoid phrases like ‘I’m writing because...’ and instead use something more formal:
• ‘I wish to express my concern about…’
• ‘I am writing to provide my opinion on…’
3. Organise Your Ideas
• Start each paragraph with a topic sentence that introduces your point.
• Expand on each idea with evidence or examples from the text(s).
• Briefly acknowledge counterarguments if the task requires a balanced perspective.
4. End Professionally
• If you started with ‘Dear Sir/Madam,’ close with ‘Yours faithfully.’
• If you addressed someone by name, close with “Yours sincerely.”

 

Below is an example of a formal letter layout:

 

 

General Tips for Both Informal and Formal Letters

• Use the bullet points in the task to guide your response.
• Match Your Language to the Audience:
• Informal: Chatty and engaging (e.g., ‘I’m sure you’d agree…’).
• Formal: Polished and professional (e.g., ‘This issue must be addressed promptly…’).
• Focus on clear and logical paragraphing: Each point should have its own paragraph.
• Don’t Waste Time on Layout: You don’t need to add fake addresses. Stick to basic conventions.