🎯 WALT: We Are Learning To write formal emails with proper structure and language

📧 Example Formal Email

Read this email from a Year 8 student to their principal:

To: principal@greenmeadows.school.nz

From: sarah.jones@student.greenmeadows.school.nz

Subject: Request to Change School Uniform Jewellery Policy

Dear Mr Thompson,

I hope you are well. I am writing to ask if the school could think about changing the rules on jewellery in our uniform. Right now, we can only wear stud earrings and watches.

Many students would love to wear small necklaces or bracelets that are important to them. These items wouldn’t be distracting and would help us feel more comfortable showing who we are at school.

I think this change would be great for our school because it would help everyone feel included while still looking professional.

Thank you for considering my request. I would be happy to talk more about this if you need.

Yours sincerely,

Sarah Jones

Year 8 Student

1. Circle the greeting in the email above

2. What makes this email formal? Tick all that apply:

Uses polite language

Has a clear subject line

Uses text speak (like "u" instead of "you")

Ends with "Yours sincerely"

3. Underline the main request in the email

✏️ Success Criteria for Formal Emails

My formal email includes:

Clear subject line

Formal greeting (Dear...)

Polite, respectful language

Clear main message

Formal closing (Yours sincerely/Kind regards)

My name and position

4. Choose a topic for your formal email:

Request for new sports equipment

Suggestion for school lunch improvements

Request for study space improvements

Your own idea: _________________

5. Plan your email structure:

Subject line: ________________________________

Main request: ________________________________

Two supporting reasons:

1. ________________________________

2. ________________________________

📝 Write Your Formal Email

Step-by-step guide:

1. Start with "Dear [Teacher's name]"

2. State your request clearly in the first paragraph

3. Give 2-3 reasons why your idea is good

4. End politely with "Thank you for considering..."

5. Sign off with "Yours sincerely" and your name

🌟 Extension Activity (Advanced): Write a second email that is more persuasive by adding statistics, examples, or comparing your school to others. Use persuasive language like "Furthermore," "In addition," and "Research shows..."