The 2024 WASSCE for Ghana only has started, and in this post, I will share a rare strategy, which is a set of smart new tips for answering 2024 WASSCE English Language Formal Letter Questions.
By following the tips I share here, you will tap into the minds of examiners about how to answer formal letter questions with confidence and do well in the WASSCE if you answer a formal letter question during the WASSCE.
Students who have passed through my English language class will attest to their being able to master these tips and deal with ant formal letter questions.
2024 WASSCE English Language: New Smart Tips For Answering Formal Letter Questions
Let’s look at the basic structure you can use for writing a formal letter during the WASSCE English Language paper.
Addres, date, salutation, and subject/title
- Ensure you write a good writer’s address followed by the date. Do not enter the examination hall before you start to learn how to write the writer’s address well. Practice this over and over again.
- Learn the right way to write the date for the letter. If you choose the block form, your address and the date all start at the same place under each other. But if you opt for the slanted address, ensure the date starts and is in line with the first letter of the writer’s address.
- The recipient’s address must be well written on the right side of the paper, one line below the date.
- Your salutation should be either Dear Sir or Dear Madam. Do not forget the comma that follows the salutation. Begin your letter with a formal greeting, such as “Dear Sir/Madam” or “To Whom It May Concern.”
- After reading the formal letter question, Carefyll will come up with a subject or title for the letter, which you can easily get from the question. Thus turn the question into a title, reframing it. Once you get this right, carefully write and centre it after the salutation. Write in block capital letters.
Opening Paragraph, Background Information, Body and Conclusion of the Formal Letter
Reason for Writing: In the first paragraph, state the reason why you are writing the letter. This should be a clear and concise statement that outlines the purpose of your letter.
Background Information: Provide some background information on the topic you are writing about. This can include any relevant facts or figures, as well as any previous communication or actions that have taken place.
Main Body: Use the next two to three paragraphs to provide more details on the topic. This is where you should provide a clear and detailed explanation of the situation or issue you are writing about. You should use appropriate language and terminology related to the topic.
Request or Action: If you are making a request or asking for action to be taken, state this clearly in the letter. Use polite language, and be specific about what you are asking for.
Closing: In the final paragraph, summarize your main points and restate your request or action.
Sign off: Use a formal sign-off such as “Yours sincerely” or “Yours faithfully” followed by signature, your full name and postion if any.
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Points to remember:
When it comes to writing the formal letters in the WASSCE exam, there are several important points to keep in mind to maximize your chances of success. Here are some key tips to remember:
Understand the Task: Read the question carefully and make sure you fully understand what is being asked of you.
Plan Your Response: Spend a few minutes brainstorming and organizing your ideas before you start writing. Create a clear outline or structure for your essay, including an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.
Manage Your Time: Be mindful of the time constraints and allocate your time wisely.
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Follow the format: Adhere to the recommended letter format for task.
Develop Cohesive Paragraphs: Each body paragraph should have a clear topic sentence, supporting sentences,, and examples or evidence to back up your points. Use cohesive devices (transition words, pronouns, and conjunctions) to create logical connections between sentences and paragraphs.
Use Formal Language: Maintain a formal tone throughout your essay. Avoid slang, contractions,, and overly casual language. Showcase your vocabulary and grammar skills, but don’t overcomplicate your writing. Use a mix of simple, compound,, and complex sentences.
Grammar and Vocabulary: Pay attention to your grammar, spelling, and vocabulary. Use a range of grammatical structures and vocabulary appropriately. Proofread your essay at the end to correct any errors or inconsistencies.
Practice Writing: Regularly practice writing essays within the given time limits. Familiarize yourself with different types of essay prompts and practice organizing your thoughts and writing coherent responses.
Monitor Word Count: Keep track of the number of words you are writing. Aim for around 350 words. Writing significantly more or less than the recommended word count may affect your score.
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Remember, these tips are meant to provide general guidance for formal letter writing. Throuhg out the essay ensure you cover the following aspects: Content, Organization, Mechanical Accuracy and Expression.
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