Language Development

Exercise 1. Letters of request.

We often write asking for things. “Polite” forms are relevant to the verbs

will – would

can – could

shall – should

may – might

I.

II.

NOTE:

I. - is highly complimentary.

II. – implies the recipient is usually slow to respond.

Practice the above formulae using the following:

(a) help (noun)

(b) help (verb)

(c) co-operate

(d) co-operation

(e) suggestion

(f) suggest

(g) inform

(h) information

(i) notification

(j) notify

For ideas: market research of (the new product…), results of testing (the clock-television…), promotional campaign of (the new pump…), possible reduction in the price, extra supplies of manganese, development of the new models of tractors, sign a contract.

e.g. Kindly inform us of your arrival.

Please be good enough to remit the money soon.

Please be so obliging as to let us have your new address.

Exercise 2. Polite requests

Use different formulation of “please” for each of the following,

e.g. by return of post.

(a) the bill.

(b) a stamped addressed envelope.

(c) me of your arrival time.

(d) notify the local police.

(e) the damaged goods.

(f) me at the office.

(g) our agent in Frankfurt.

(h) the outstanding amounts.

(i) us on your mailing list.

(j) before the next meeting.

Exercise 3. Asking for a reply

Rearrange (a) – (f) in order of politeness, from 1 (most) to 6 (least). Discuss.

(a) I look forward to hearing from you as soon as possible.

(b) Please give the matter your urgent attention.

(c) Your prompt reply would be appreciated.

(d) We look forward to hearing from you at your earliest convenience.

(e) Kindly treat this as a matter of urgency.

(f) We require your reply at once.

Task 1. Practice Writing Enquiry Letters

1. Write a letter of enquiry using the following instructions.

You are Phil Gerr, marketing manager of The Bod in Cologne. You are organizing a business trip for you and your two colleagues to a customer in Amsterdam in April. You write to a travel agency for information on hotel accommodation in Amsterdam from 7 till 8 April. You tell the agency what your plans are, and ask them whether they know of specific package deals on hotel, rental car and flight. You ask them to send you the particulars as soon as possible as you need to give a prompt reply to your customer in Amsterdam.

2. Write the following letter: you wish to spend a holiday abroad (decide where). Write a letter of about 1000 words to travel agency requesting the necessary information. Ask about:

- duration of a tour

- accommodations

- price

- nightlife activities

- additional activities

- tour cost

Date: 2015-12-11; view: 759