Writing Formal Letters Composition English Grammar Primary 6 First Term Lesson Notes Week 6

Subject: English Language
Class: Primary 6
Term: First Term
Week: 6
Age: 10-11 years
Topic: Composition
Sub-topic: Writing Formal Letters
Duration: 45 minutes

Behavioral Objectives

By the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to:

1. List the features of a formal letter (e.g., heading, body, address).
2. Apply these features to write their own formal letters.
3. Identify and include the essential elements of a formal letter in any given writing exercise.

Keywords

• Heading
• Address
• Salutation
• Body
• Closing
• Signature

Set Induction

Introduce the concept of formal letters and their importance in professional and official communication. Explain how formal letters are structured and used in different scenarios, such as job applications or official requests.

Entry Behavior

Pupils should have prior knowledge of basic letter writing and familiarization with different types of letters.

Learning Resources and Materials

• Sample formal letter
• Whiteboard and markers
• Notebooks for writing practice
• Formal letter templates

Building Background/Connection to Prior Knowledge

Review the format of formal letters, including previous writing exercises where pupils might have encountered various letter types.

Embedded Core Skills

• Writing structure
• Formal language use
• Organizational skills in writing

Learning Materials

• Example of a formal letter
• Templates showing different letter parts

Reference Books

• Lagos State Scheme of Work for Primary Schools
• English Language Textbooks on Letter Writing

Instructional Materials

• Sample formal letters
• Whiteboard for illustrating letter features

Content

Features of a Formal Letter:

1. Heading: Includes the sender’s address and the date. It is placed at the top of the letter.
   • Example: 123 Elm Street, Cityville, August 10, 2024
2. Recipient’s Address: The address of the person receiving the letter, placed below the heading.
   • Example: Mr. John Doe, XYZ Corporation, 456 Oak Avenue, Cityville
3. Salutation: A polite greeting used to address the recipient, e.g., “Dear Mr. Doe,”
4. Body: The main content of the letter, divided into paragraphs. It includes the purpose of the letter and any necessary details.
5. Closing: A polite sign-off, e.g., “Yours faithfully,” or “Sincerely,”
6. Signature: The writer’s signature followed by their typed name.

Sample Formal Letter:

Activity Steps

1. Introduction: Explain the structure and features of a formal letter using the sample provided. Discuss each part and its purpose.
2. Guided Practice: Write a formal letter together as a class, ensuring each feature is included.
3. Independent Writing: Ask pupils to write their own formal letters based on a given scenario. For example, writing a letter of application for a school club or a request for information.
4. Review and Feedback: Review the pupils’ letters, providing feedback on the use of formal letter features.

Teacher’s Activities

• Introduce and explain the features of a formal letter.
• Provide examples and templates for reference.
• Guide pupils through the writing process and review their letters.

Learners’ Activities

• Identify the features of a formal letter in provided examples.
• Write their own formal letters based on given scenarios.
• Participate in peer review and revise their letters based on feedback.

Assessment

• Evaluate pupils’ formal letters for correct use of letter features.
• Check the clarity and effectiveness of the letter’s content and format.

10 Evaluation Questions

1. What should be included in the heading of a formal letter?
2. Where should the recipient’s address be placed in the letter?
3. How do you address the recipient in a formal letter?
4. What should the body of a formal letter include?
5. What is the purpose of the closing in a formal letter?
6. How should you sign a formal letter?
7. Write a sample salutation for a formal letter.
8. Describe the purpose of the heading in a formal letter.
9. Why is it important to use a formal tone in business letters?
10. How would you conclude a formal letter requesting information?

Conclusion

Summarize the key elements of a formal letter and emphasize their importance. Encourage pupils to apply these features in their future writing tasks to ensure clear and professional communication.