Composition- Formal letter - JSS1 English Language Lesson Note

What is a formal letter?

A formal letter is a serious message written to someone you don't know well, like a teacher, principal, or someone in a business. It's different from a letter to a friend or family because it uses a more grown-up and polite way of speaking.

Here's how to write a formal letter:

1. Your address: Write your address at the top right corner of the page.

Date: Write the date below your address, on the left side.

Recipient's address: Write the name and address of the person you're writing to on the left side, a few lines below the date.

Salutation: Start your letter with a greeting like "Dear Sir/Madam" or "Dear Principal."

Body: This is where you write your message.

• In the first paragraph, briefly say why you're writing.
• In the next paragraphs, explain your message clearly and politely.
• Keep your sentences short and easy to understand.

Closing: End your letter with a polite closing like "Sincerely yours" or "Yours faithfully."

Signature: Leave some space and write "Your Name" neatly.

Writing a Formal Letter

A formal letter is used for serious communication, like writing to a teacher, principal, or someone you don't know well. Here's how to write one:

1. Your Details (Top Left)

• Write your full name and class (JSS 1) on the top left corner.

2. Recipient Details (Top Right)

• Write the recipient's name and title (e.g., Mr., Mrs., Ms., Dr.) on the top right corner.
• If you don't know their name, use "Dear Sir/Madam" or "To Whom It May Concern."
• Include their position (e.g., The Principal, My Teacher).

3. Date (Center)

• Write the full date (e.g., 17 March 2024) in the center, below the recipient's details.

4. Salutation (Left Aligned)

• Start with "Dear" followed by the recipient's title and last name (e.g., Dear Mr. Adewale).

5. Body (Left Aligned)

• Write 2-3 paragraphs in clear and concise language.
• Start the first paragraph by stating your purpose for writing (e.g., "I am writing to request..." or "I am applying for...").
• In the middle paragraph(s), provide details or explanations.
• Keep your tone respectful and polite.

6. Closing (Left Aligned)

• End with a formal closing like "Yours sincerely" or "Yours faithfully."

7. Signature and Name (Left Aligned)

• Skip a line and write "Sincerely," or "Yours faithfully,"
• On the next line, sign your name in pen.
• Below your signature, write your full name 

Example 

John Smith
JSS 1A

Mr. Adewale
The Principal
Brilliant Star Secondary School

17 March 2024

Dear Mr. Adewale,

I am writing to request permission to be absent from school on Monday, 18 March 2024. I have a doctor's appointment that I cannot reschedule. I will ensure I catch up on any missed schoolwork.

Thank you for your understanding.

Yours sincerely,

John Smith