Page 5 - Lesson Notes

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k4PeUWd3TG8

E. How to write a Letter to the Editor ?
A Letter to the Editor may be written to the editor of a newspaper or a magazine.
Purpose: It is written to highlight a social issue or problem. It can also be written in order to get it
published in the said medium.

 Giving suggestions on an issue (usually of public interest)
 Expressing views on an issue already raised in an article/write-up/in a published letter.

F. COMMON FEATURES OF FORMAL LETTERS

1. Be brief, clear and to the point.
2. Use separate paragraphs for separate topics.
3. The first paragraph should indicate the theme of the letter.
4. Make a factual statement of facts.
5. Use simple and direct language. Avoid the use of long and high sounding words and ambiguous
construction.
6. Even while lodging a complaint or making criticism, you should be polite and Formal.
7. Avoid common-place and clumsy expressions.
8. Use a proper format for these formal letters..
9. Use of punctuation marks is dispensed with.
10. Remember the following points about block format:
1. There is no indentation.
2. Each block begins with the margin on left hand side.
3. Extra space should be left between different sections and paragraphs.
4. Omit punctuation marks in address and date. A comma (,) may be put after the salutation.
Golden Rule. Always use:
(a) Suitable format.
(b) Well-organised content.
(c) Appropriate language.

SAI INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL / VI/ MODULE 4 /ENGLISH Page 5