The Formal Letter

Structure, Language Features and Suggested

Format
 • The steps to writing a formal letter are the same as for
informal letters. The difference lies in:
• The style and tone of the language of the letter
• The format of the letter, (i.e. the salutation, and
valediction)

• Formal letter format provided to you… use it as a guide

for future assignments

Formal Letters – An introduction

Sample Formal Letter
Salutation Valediction
FORMAL LETTER

Dear Sir, Dear Yours faithfully, Yours

Sir/Madam, Dear Mr. Sincerely,
Tan, Dear Mr Cyril Lim,

INFORMAL LETTER

Dear Dad, Dear Alfred etc. With love, Kind

regards, Best
wishes, Regards,

Parts of a letter (both formal & informal)

• Formal letters have some additional features which are
not required in casual or polite informal letters.
• These features help enhance the respectful and
authoritative tone of the letter.
• Here are some tips on formal features:
• Salutations and Valediction (must be appropriately matched)
• E.g. If salutation begins with “Dear Sir” then valediction
should be “Yours faithfully”
• If you address a person by name in your salutation (Dear Ms
Tan, etc.) then the valediction should be “Yours sincerely”

Formal Letter…language features

• Read the assignment notes given to you

• Apply the steps of letter writing to work out a simple

outline to a formal letter

• Nominate a presenter to present your team’s effort in

class. (2 minutes each)

Ready to try out the

steps?
• Steps to situational writing
• What are the parts of the Situational Question
• What is the key features of formal letters?

Lesson Recap