2.1.1: Task Achievement: Style and Tone

Letter Writing = R+S+I

In this lesson, we will cover the RSI method of writing letter.

Click Each Color below.

👫 Recipient (R)

Who are you writing to? Friend, stranger, or semi-stranger?

✍️ Style (S)

Formal, semi-formal, or informal style?

💡 Content (I)

What content should you include?

The recipient is the person you’re writing to. Identifying the recipient helps you decide the style and tone of your letter. Ask yourself:

  • Is the recipient someone you know personally? (e.g., a friend or family member)
  • Is the recipient a stranger? (e.g., a manager, customer service representative)
  • Is the recipient a semi-stranger? (e.g., a neighbor, colleague, or landlord)
RecipientStyle
Friend or FamilyPersonal/Informal
Total StrangerFormal
Semi-StrangerSemi-Formal

The style of your letter depends on the recipient. Here’s how to choose:

Personal Style (Informal)

Recipients: Friends, family members.

Tone: Casual, friendly, conversational.

Greeting: “Dear [First Name],”

Sign-off: “Best regards,” “Yours,” or “Cheers,” followed by your first name.

Dear Sarah,
I hope you’re doing well! I’m writing to invite you to my birthday party next weekend…

Formal Style

Recipients: Strangers, professionals, companies.

Tone: Polite, respectful, professional.

Greeting: “Dear Sir or Madam,” (if you don’t know the name).

Sign-off: “Yours faithfully,” followed by your full name.

Dear Sir or Madam,
I am writing to express my dissatisfaction with the service I received at your store…

Semi-Formal Style

Recipients: Semi-strangers (e.g., neighbors, landlords, colleagues).

Tone: Polite but slightly friendly.

Greeting: “Dear [Title + Surname],” (e.g., Dear Mr. Smith).

Sign-off: “Yours sincerely,” followed by your full name.

Dear Mr. Smith,
I am writing to inform you about the noise issue in the apartment…

The content of your letter depends on the purpose of writing. Common purposes include:

  • Complaining: Expressing dissatisfaction (e.g., about a product or service).
  • Requesting: Asking for information, help, or permission.
  • Explaining/Apologizing: Providing details or saying sorry.
  • Suggesting: Offering solutions or ideas.

Example:

If the task asks you to:

  1. Describe a problem.
  2. Explain how it affected you.
  3. Suggest a solution.

Your content ideas should cover all three points.

Activity 1: Choose the Style

Match each sentence to the appropriate style: Personal, Formal, or Semi-Formal.

1. I’m writing to complain about my treatment at AMC store.

2. I want to thank my guide for helping me score high.

3. I need to invite my friend for a party.

Activity 2: Test Your Knowledge

Answer these multiple-choice questions about letter writing styles.

1. Which greeting would you use for a formal letter to an unknown recipient?

2. What is the most appropriate sign-off for a semi-formal letter to your landlord?

3. Which of these would NOT be included in a formal complaint letter?

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