All You Can Write
SPI 0601.3.12 Select the most
appropriate format for writing a
specific work-related text
(i.e., instructions, directions, letters,
memos, e-mails, reports).
Communication
It is important to know how to communicate
in different situations.
Examples:
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When is writing a memo appropriate?
Should I write a formal letter?
Are instructions necessary?
Is an e-mail proper?
Instructions
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A message describing how something is to be
done
Think of these as orders, commands, advice, or
directives.
Instructions lists steps for doing an activity or
completing a task.
Instructions should be used to outline the steps
to be followed in order to complete an
assignment, activity, or project correctly.
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Instructions to keep your sister from annoying you:
By Katrina, 9, Cardiff, Wales
When your sister is screaming at you and and you are feeling
down here is what you do.
1. First scream in her ear.
2. Then if that doesn't work imitate her and annoy her.
3. Take her teddy bear.
4. If that doesn't work run away and never come back!
Directions
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information, particularly as to how to
reach a destination
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Directions to Opry Mills Mall
1. From Lavergne 2. Take the 1st left onto
Washington St 3. Turn right onto S Lowry
St 4. Take the TN-266 S/​Sam Ridley Pkwy
ramp to I-24 5. Merge onto TN-266/​Sam
Ridley Pkwy E 6. Take the ramp onto I-24
W 7. Take exit 54 for TN-155/​Briley Pkwy
8. Turn right onto TN-155 N/​Briley Pkwy E
9. Take exit 11 for Opry Mills Dr 10.
Continue straight 11. Continue straight onto
Opry Mills Dr 12. Turn right 13. Turn left
Friendly Letters
In a friendly letter, you write to
someone you know, using an informal
tone.
A friendly letter often tells about recent
events in the writer’s life.
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Business Letters
Business letters are formal messages
following specific formats. They may be
addressed to a particular person or
organization. A business letter is used
between companies, customers, and other
people that are not considered friends.
Memos
A memo is a document sent within a
company or organization. It is presented
in short form, highlighting certain aspects.
A memo is not signed.
E-mail
People write e-mail messages for many
different reasons – to chat with friends
and family, communicate with coworkers,
sometimes apply for a job. Therefore,
they can be as informal as note left on the
fridge or as formal as a business letter –
make sure you get the right tone!
Reports
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A written document describing the
findings, results, or conclusions of some
individual or group
The writing in a report is clear and concise
and uses an objective, impersonal tone.
So, when should I write
a business letter,
a memo,
or an email?
Business Letters
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Formal Tone
They may be addressed to a particular
person or organization.
A business letter is used between
companies, customers, and other people
that are not considered friends.
Memos
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Less formal than letters, yet more formal than
e-mails. Use a professional tone.
Presents important information to other
members of a company or organization.
Write clearly and concisely.
Contain a header that tells who it is from,
who it is to, the date, and the subject.
E-mails
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Less Formal
Chat with friends or family
Formal
Official Business (Submitting work to a
teacher or applying for a job)
Sample Test Questions