Page 2 - moudul kelas XI

letter is a type of letter (or informal composition) that usually concerns personal

matters and is sent from one individual to another.

1. Social Function

Personal letters are usually written to someone whom we know , such as
friends,relatives and pen pals. Therefore, the social function of personal letters is

not only to inform something but also to strengthen the bond between two

people.
2. Characteristics of Personal Letters

a. Most personal letters are handwritten, but today people sometimes type their

personal letters
b. Personal letters are usually written using an upbeat, friendly tone

c. Personal letters add to the feeling of intimacy
d. When we write a personal letter, it will finish not with “Yours sincerely” but

quite often will finish with “Love” or “Regard, even “Cheers”, depending on
who we are writing to and how we have written the letter.

3. Structures of Personal Letters

a. Heading. It appears at the top of the letter. It includes your address and
the date alighted to the right-hand margin

b. Salutation or greeting. A salutation greet the person to whom you’re

writing. “Dear (Name is the most common salutation) It begins two lines
below the address. A very casual letter or e-mail can have a more informal

greeting. Write the salutation aligned to the left-handed margin and use a
comma after the person’s name.

c. Opening paragraph. The first paragraph can be used to talk about the

receiver’s condition. For Example: How are you? How are you doing?,
How have you been? I hope you’ve been having a wonderful holiday.

d. Body. The body of personal letter includes your thoughts and ideas. Use
short paragraphs to hold the reader’s attention. Write your purpose why

you write the letter. But remember, think your relationship and familiarity

with the person with whom you are writing to. It is to determine the level of
formality you will use to write the letter.

e. Closing (closure). Try to end the letter with positive feelings. For example,

Hope to hear from you soon please write back; Have a wonderful
;
weekend.

f. Complimentary close. It is based on the relationship with the receiver.
Follow the signature by giving your name.

Examples:

- Formal : Sincerely, Warmly, Best wishes
- Casual : Yours; Take care; Cheers; Your friend

- Intimate: Love; Much love ; Thinking of you