FUNCTIONAL WRITINGS
· These are letters written to people we do not known or do not have formal
relationship with.
· These letters are formal impartial and polite .
· They are written in a purpose in mind and therefore reflect clarity.
· They use a variety of sentences and the choice of words must be formal.
· It is precise and precise
Format
· It has a senders address .This does not include their name.
· It has a date written out in English .Should appear as a block with the address.
· It has a recipient address on the left hand side which includes the position of the
recipient
· It has a salutation .
· Addressed as either dear sir /dear madam or the name of the recipient if they are
know to you .
· It has a subject line or heading introduced by RE: which gives the purpose of the
letter .
· It is written in capital letters then underlined.
It has a body
1. First paragraph introduces you to the objective of the letter
2. The main paragraph convey the chief point of the letter
3. The main paragraph consists of a request for action
It has valediction or closing tag depending with how you started. You can end with
{yours faithfully or yours sincerely } followed by your signature then name and
designation
There are different types of letters which include
4. Apology
5. Application
6. Inquiry
7. complaint
8. To the editor
9. written through someone
10. Letter of application
· These are letters that are written to request for opportunities where one feels they are suitable
e.g. Jobs, Scholarships, Leaderships, Educational opportunity e.t.c.
· They are written to achieve specific goals
· The rules of formal letter applies
Content
· 1st paragraph -The post you are applying for and how how got to know about the
vacancy
· 2nd paragraph - your qualifications
- If you have any experience
· 3rd paragraph - strengths
- weaknesses
- other relevant skills
· 4th paragraph - how you can be contacted
Sample
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