How to write a formal letter at the STANAG 6001 level 3 exam? What to remember about?

Do you want to learn how to write a letter and win a prize. Read on!

There are a few basic things you have to remember about when writing a formal letter.

1. LETTER STRUCTURE

Remember about the letter structure.

Start with a formal greeting.

The letter should start with an introductory line or two, introducing the general topic of the letter, e.g. referring to previous correspondence, a meeting or conversation which resulted in writing it. e.g. "I'm writing in reply to ...." or "I"m writing with reference to ..."

There are always three points in the exam instruction you should cover. Each of them should be dealt with in a separate paragraph.

Remember about the final sentence or two which sum up the letter, e.g. "I'm looking forward to your reply, and ..."

Sign the letter with XYZ and end it with an appropriate greeting.

Read more about letter structure and greetings here: WRITING FORMAL LETTERS AND E-MAILS

2. PARAGRAPH DEVELOPMENT

Each paragraph should start with the topic sentence introducing the topic of the paragraph. 

Every idea in the paragraph should be justified and developed (example, explanation, consequence).

Sentences should be logically connected with the use of linking words, such as: moreover, for example, therefore, however.

You can read more about paragraph development here: PARAGRAPH DEVELOPMENT

3. EXPRESSIONS

Use appropriate expressions to give and request information.

The phrases come from my book "Speaking and Writing Expert. How to Pass STANAG 6001 English Exam. Level 3."

4. FORMAL LANGUAGE

Remember to use formal language. I wrote more about formal language requirements here: FORMAL LANGUAGE

5. INDIRECT QUESTIONS

When you request information, it is more formal and polite to ask indirect questions. Below you will find a grammar note about how to form them.

6. PRACTISE

To learn to write, you have to write. Practice makes perfect!

CHALLENGE 

I have a challenge for you.

The task is to write a letter on the following topic:

TOPIC

You have been tasked with organising an IT training course for your employees. Write a letter to the instructor informing about the possible date, place and other details of the course, 2) asking for information concerning the possible number of trainees and the equipment requirements, 3) informing about the accommodation options for the instructor. Write a minimum of 120 words.

EXAMPLE

You can use the following letter requesting information as a model which also comes from "Speaking and Writing Expert. How to Pass STANAG 6001 English Exam. Level 3."

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing in connection with the offer I received from your centre. (reason for writing)

First of all, I would be grateful if you could provide me with the detailed information concerning your offer of English courses. I am particularly interested to know whether you organise specialised courses in accordance with the STANAG 6001 norm. What we need are tailor-made workshops run by qualified and experienced teachers who have expertise in teaching military English.

Another matter I need information on is whether you will be able to organise a course for my unit in December. I would like to know if it would be possible for you to train two groups of 12 soldiers who all hold STANAG 6001 level 2 certificates in English. What is more, our commander needs individual conversation classes and I wonder whether you could arrange them as well.

Finally, I would also like some details concerning the cost of these courses. Due to the fact that our budget is tight, I would be much obliged if you could offer a reasonable price. That would allow us to assess the offer and send in our specific requirements regarding the said courses.

I am looking forward to you reply and I would appreciate it if you could inform me as soon as possible.

Yours faithfully,

XYZ

THE PRIZE

The author of the best letter will win my book "Speaking and Writing Expert. How to Pass STANAG 6001 English Exam. Level 3."

If you are preparing for the exam, you will receive feedback if you wish.

However, I would like to invite EVERYBODY to take part in the competition! Students, teachers, instructors, soldiers, civilians, anybody who wants to try their abilities or win the book!

Please send the letters until the end of the week, that is by 3 September 2017 to my email: info@stanagexpert.com. Please write "CHALLENGE" in the subject line of your e-mail.

If you have any questions, don't hesitate to comment below ⬇⬇⬇ or contact me directly by email at info@stanagexpert.com