Writing: Informal Letters for Primary 4

Informal Letters

Performance Objectives

By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:

1. explain the meaning of an informal letter;
2. list the features of an informal letter;
3. write informal letters.

What is an Informal Letter?

An informal letter is a letter written to someone known very well, such as a friend, family member, or close relative.

These letters are usually personal and friendly. They are used to share news, ask questions, give advice, or simply chat with someone the writer cares about. Because the person is known well, the language used in informal letters is relaxed and conversational, just like talking to them in person.

Features of an Informal Letter

Every informal letter has several important parts that help the reader understand who wrote it, when it was written, and what it is about. These parts are called features.

Sender’s Address

This is the address of the person writing the letter. It is usually placed at the top right-hand corner of the letter. It tells the person receiving the letter where to send a reply.

An example of a sender’s address is:

1. No. 15, Adeola Street,
2. Surulere,
3. Lagos State.

Date

The date tells the day the letter was written. It is placed just below the sender’s address, also on the right side. The date helps the reader know how recent the information in the letter is.

An example of a date is: 12th October, 2024.

Salutation (Greeting)

The salutation is the friendly greeting that starts the letter. It is placed on the left side of the page, below the date. Since it is an informal letter, the greeting is usually personal and warm.

Common informal salutations include:

1. Dear John,
2. Hello Auntie Ngozi,
3. Hi Mummy,
4. My Dearest Friend,

Introduction

The introduction is the first paragraph of the letter. It usually starts with a friendly opening, like asking about the person’s well-being or referring to a previous letter or event. It sets a friendly tone for the rest of the letter.

Examples of introductory sentences are:

1. How are you doing? I hope this letter finds you well.
2. It was so good to hear from you last week.
3. I hope you are enjoying your holidays.

Body of the Letter

The body is the main part of the letter where the sender shares all the news, thoughts, and messages. This section is developed with informal and chatty language. It can have several paragraphs, with each paragraph discussing a different point or idea.

The language used should be relaxed, just like talking to a friend. Contractions (like “I’m” instead of “I am”) and simple sentences can be used.

Closing

The closing is a short, friendly phrase that comes before the sender’s name. It is placed on the right side of the page, below the body of the letter. It signals that the letter is coming to an end.

Common informal closings include:

1. Yours lovingly,
2. Your friend,
3. Best regards,
4. With love,

Sender’s Name and Signature

This is the name of the person who wrote the letter. It is written below the closing. Sometimes, a signature is also added above the name.

The diagram below shows the features of an informal letter clearly.

Writing an Informal Letter

Writing an informal letter is a fun way to communicate with people cared about. It allows for free expression and sharing of thoughts in a personal way. The procedure involves the following steps:

1. Write the Sender’s Address: Start by writing the full address at the top right-hand corner of the paper.
2. Write the Date: Below the address, write the date the letter is being written.
3. Write the Salutation: On the left side of the paper, below the date, write a friendly greeting to the person the letter is for. Remember to use their name.
4. Write the Introduction: Begin the letter with a friendly opening paragraph. This can include asking about their well-being or mentioning something heard from them.
5. Write the Body: In the next paragraphs, share news, ask questions, or tell stories. Use simple, chatty language. Topics can include school, family, games, or any interesting events.
6. Write the Closing: End the letter with a friendly closing phrase on the right side of the paper, below the body.
7. Write Your Name: Finally, write the name below the closing. A signature can also be added above the name.

Sample Informal Letter

Here is an example of an informal letter written by a Primary 4 pupil to a friend:

12, Palm Avenue,
Ikeja,
Lagos State.
15th November, 2024.

Dear Tunde,

How are you doing? I hope you are fine and enjoying your new school. I miss you a lot since you moved to Abuja.

School here is going well. We just had our inter-house sports competition last week. My house, Yellow House, came second! It was so exciting. I ran in the 100-metre race, but I didn't win. Still, it was fun cheering for my friends.

My mummy bought me a new storybook last weekend. It's about a brave little girl who goes on an adventure to find a hidden treasure. I'm almost done reading it, and it's very interesting. I wish you were here so we could read it together.

How is your new school? Have you made many new friends? Tell me all about it when you write back. I hope we can see each other during the next holidays.

Yours lovingly,

Chisom