WRITING INFORMAL LETTERS
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LETTERWRITING is an important channel of communication between people who are geographically distant from one another.
In earlier times when the telephone and email were not available, the only means of communication between people was through letters.
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In general there are two types of letters:
Formal letters, that are written for official business; and
Informal letters, which are personal letters to communicate with friends and family.
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An informal letter (or friendly letter) is a way of communicating between two people (sometimes more) who know each other well. There are many uses and reasons for writing an informal letter, but they will usually consist of topics on a personal level.
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30th March, 2010 Dear Paula, Oh, how I missed being with you during the holidays this year! Everything in London is so different from Spain that I don't know if I'll ever get used to living here. I'm so glad that my father's job at the Spanish Embassy will only last until June. Then we will come home, and you and I can spend the summer on the beach. (I hope you'll spend your holiday in Spain, as usual.) I've already made some very nice friends, but don't worry no one could ever replace you as my best friend! After school, I sometimes go to my friend Fiona's house. She enjoys listening to the same music and watching the same clips that you and I like. In fact, Fiona and I have tickets for Bon Jovi's concert next month. I wish you were coming with us! Life is very different here. Would you believe that we have to wear a uniform to go to school? It's awful! A blue skirt and blazer, a white blouse and a ridiculous checked tie, not to mention a pair of horrible, long, white socks. Besides, there is nothing to do in the evening. All the shops close by 4.30 p. m. and pubs are only open till 11 p. m. That's all for now. I must start my homework for my English class tomorrow. The teacher wants us to write an informal letter to a friend and I don't even know where to begin! Please write soon and tell me all the news. I miss you. Love, Sandra
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You always start your letter with a greeting:
Dear Jim,
Hello Jim,
Hi Jim,
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Next, you write a "hello" sentence Sorry I haven't written for ages. Sorry it's taken me so long to write. How's it going? How are you? How are things with you? How are things? It was nice to get your letter.
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After saying hello, you write the main body of your letter.
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You always end your letter with a "goodbye" sentence: Well, I have to go now. Write soon. Love Lots of love All my love Please write soon. Take care of yourself. All the best.
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After saying goodbye, you need to sign your name:
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In PET Writing Part 3, you may write a letter to an English speaking friend.
Look at this example writing task.
This is part of a letter you receive from an English penfriend.
Now write a letter answering your penfriend’s questions. Write your letter in about 100 words.
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