Writing: Further Practice on Informal Letter Basic 6 English Studies Lesson Note

Review: Informal Letter Format

Parts of an Informal Letter:

1. Your address (top right corner)
2. Date (below your address)
3. Salutation (Dear + first name)
4. Body (your message in paragraphs)
5. Closing (Love, Your friend, Best wishes)
6. Signature (your first name)

Informal Letter Topics for Practice:

1. Telling a friend about your interview experience 2. Inviting a cousin to visit during holidays 3. Thanking a friend for a birthday gift 4. Sharing news about your school sports day 5. Asking for advice about choosing subjects

Sample Informal Letter:

25 Adeniran Street,
Ikeja, Lagos State.

15th March, 2024

Dear Funmi,

I hope you’re doing well in your new school. I’m writing to tell you about something exciting that happened last week.

I applied to be Head Girl in my school, and I had my interview on Monday! I was so nervous beforehand, but I think it went quite well. The interviewers asked me about my plans for helping other students and how I would handle different situations.

The principal was sitting in the middle, with two other teachers on either side of her. They were all very friendly, which helped me feel more relaxed. I told them about my idea to start study groups and help students who are struggling with their subjects.

I won’t know the results until next Monday, but I’m proud that I tried my best. Whether I win or not, the experience taught me a lot about speaking confidently in formal situations.

How are things at your new school? Have you made any new friends yet? I really miss having you in my class, but I’m happy you’re doing well.

Please write back soon and tell me all your news!

Your best friend, Kemi

Exercise N – Letter Planning

Choose one topic and plan your informal letter:

Topic chosen: _________________________________

Planning:

• Friend’s name: _________________________________
• Main purpose: _________________________________
• Key points to include:
• Questions to ask: _________________________________
• Closing message: _________________________________

Informal Letter Writing Tips:

1. Use friendly, casual language like you’re talking
2. Ask questions to show interest in your friend
3. Share personal experiences and feelings
4. Use contractions (I’m, don’t, can’t) for natural tone
5. Include specific details to make it interesting
6. Vary your sentence length for better flow
7. End with warmth and encourage a reply