Worksheet: Formal and Informal Email Writing for Secondary 1 Students
Objective:
To understand the differences between formal and informal email writing and practice writing both
types of emails.
Part 1: Understanding the Difference
1. What is a Formal Email?
A formal email is written in a professional or business context. It uses polite language, clear structure,
and a respectful tone. You send formal emails to people you don't know very well or in professional
settings, such as teachers, employers, or government officials.
Key Features of a Formal Email:
• Subject line: Clear and specific.
• Salutation: Dear + Title (Mr./Mrs./Dr.) + Last Name or Sir/Madam.
• Tone: Polite, respectful, and professional.
• Language: Proper grammar, no slang.
• Closing: Yours sincerely, Yours faithfully, Best regards.
Example:
Subject: Request for Extension on Assignment Submission
Dear Mr. Tan,
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request an extension for the assignment due on 30th
November. Due to unforeseen personal circumstances, I will be unable to submit it on time. I would
greatly appreciate it if you could extend the deadline by two days.
Thank you for considering my request. I look forward to your response.
Yours sincerely,
John Lee
Secondary 1 Student
2. What is an Informal Email?
An informal email is written to someone you know well, such as friends, family, or classmates. It is more
relaxed and conversational in tone. You can use more casual language and even some abbreviations or
slang.
Key Features of an Informal Email:
• Subject line: Simple and to the point.
• Salutation: Hi/Hello + First Name.
• Tone: Friendly, casual, and personal.
• Language: Conversational, may include contractions or slang.
• Closing: Best, Cheers, Take care, etc.
Example:
Subject: Catching Up
Hi Sarah,
I hope you're doing great! It's been a while since we last caught up. How's everything going on your end?
I've been busy with school, but I can't wait for the holidays to start. Let's meet up soon!
Looking forward to hearing from you.
Cheers,
Emily
Part 2: Email Writing Practice
Formal Email Writing
Instructions: Read the situation below and write a formal email responding to the given scenario. Use
the correct structure and language.
Situation:
You are a student who needs an extra day to finish a school project. You are writing to your teacher, Mrs.
Wong, to request an extension.
Steps to Write:
1. Subject: Make it clear what the email is about.
2. Salutation: Begin with a polite greeting.
3. Body of the email:
o Start by introducing yourself.
o State the purpose of your email (requesting an extension).
o Give a valid reason why you need the extension.
o Politely ask for an extension.
4. Closing: End the email respectfully.
Your Formal Email Response:
Informal Email Writing
Instructions: Read the situation below and write an informal email. Be friendly and use a casual tone.
Situation:
Your friend, Alex, has invited you to their birthday party. You cannot attend because you have an
important exam on the same day. Write a reply to Alex explaining why you can’t come and wishing them
a happy birthday.
Steps to Write:
1. Subject: Keep it simple and related to the topic.
2. Salutation: Start with a friendly greeting.
3. Body of the email:
o Begin by thanking Alex for the invitation.
o Explain why you can't come (mention the exam).
o Wish Alex a great birthday.
4. Closing: End the email casually.
Your Informal Email Response:
Part 3: Identify the Type of Email
Instructions:
Read the following email excerpts and decide whether they are formal or informal. Write "Formal" or
"Informal" in the box provided.
1.
Subject: Inquiry About School Opening Hours
Dear Sir/Madam,
I hope this message finds you well. I am a parent of a student at your school, and I would like to inquire
about the school opening hours during the upcoming holiday period. I would appreciate your response
at your earliest convenience.
Thank you for your time.
Yours sincerely,
Rachel Tan
Formal / Informal
2.
Subject: Pizza for Lunch?
Hey John,
What’s up? I was thinking we could order pizza for lunch tomorrow. Let me know if you’re free and what
you want on yours. Hope to catch up soon!
Cheers,
Tom
Formal / Informal
3.
Subject: Application for Internship Position
Dear Mr. Harris,
I am writing to express my interest in the internship position advertised on your company’s website. I
have attached my resume and look forward to the opportunity to contribute to your team.
Yours faithfully,
Jessica Tan
Formal / Informal
4.
Subject: Weekend Plans
Hi Emily,
Are you free this weekend? I was thinking of going to the beach on Saturday. It would be awesome if you
could join me. Let me know what you think!
Take care,
Lily
Formal / Informal
Part 5: Reflection
Answer the following questions:
1. Why do you think it is important to know the difference between formal and informal emails?
2. Can you think of a situation where you would write a formal email? Give an example.
3. Can you think of a situation where you would write an informal email? Give an example.
