Page 65 - EL108 Learrning Module

language expresses ideas very differently. In the beginning, use simple

sentence structures that you have learned. You may want to express a
complex idea, but if you haven't learned the grammar for this, break the

idea down into simpler language. As you learn more advanced grammar,
you can begin to express more complex ideas.

3. Reading English books and listening to English are also very important

for good writing. You start to see that particular words go with other
words in a specific way. And certain words, phrases, and structures

begin to sound familiar as well. At this point, you may find that they start
to appear in your writing in a natural way.

4. Many students are unsure about how formal or informal an email

message to an instructor needs to be. A formal style will come across
as more respectful. This means that your message will be more like a

business letter and not like a text message or a post on social media.
Here are some key points to consider:

1. Formal messages do not use texting language, for example, "u" for "you"
or "thanx" for "thanks." They do not have smiley faces or other

emoticons. Do not even use this: :)

2. The subject line needs to be specific.
3. At the college level, you can begin your message with Dear Professor

__ or Dear Dr. ___. If you don't know the title, then you can use Mr. or
Ms. For K-12, the title will generally be Mr., Mrs., or Ms.

4. It is better to get class information/assignments online or from a
classmate than by contacting the instructor. Only ask the instructor if

there are no other options. ·

5. Be sure you have an acceptable reason for your request or excuse. If
you don't, don't mention a poor one.

6. Sign your first and last name, and begin with one of the following: Thank

you, Sincerely, Regards, Best, Respectfully.
7. Double-check that you have the correct email address. If one letter is

wrong, your email will not get to the intended person.

Teaching and Assessment of Grammar 53