A. Read the rubric, input and e-mail. Then underline the parts of the e-mail that correspond to the input.

You have received an e-mail from your British friend, Amelia. Read this part of the e-mail.

Things are mostly great, except I seem to have recently developed an allergy to my cat, Rosie. I've been sneezing a lot, and I've been getting watery eyes and rashes on my arm. As you know, I've had Rosie since she was a kitten, and I really adore her. So, I don't want to leave her at the local shelter. What do you think I should do? Best wishes, Amelia

Write your e-mail.

Dear Amelia,

I was sad to hear that you are having problems with your cat. I know how hard it is to have to decide between your beloved pet and your health. I've had similar problems in the past with my pet hamsters, so I know how you feel. There are, however, lots of things that you can do. You say that you don't want to leave Rosie at the local shelter. Well, do you have any friends or neighbours who would like a pet? If you do, you could ask them to take Rosie. That way, you could still see her from time to time. If I were you, I'd also think about getting another pet, an animal that you aren't allergic to, like a fish or a turtle maybe. That way you might not feel so sad and lonely when Rosie is gone.

Finally, I'd also advise you to take up a new hobby. It will keep you occupied, and that way, you won't think about Rosie all the time.

Anyway, I hope this has been helpful. Write soon to tell me how things are going.

Best wishes,

Olivia

3. FOCUS ON PURPOSE AND STYLE

A. Read the e-mail again and answer the following questions.

1. What aspects of this e-mail make it informal?

2. What is the purpose of this e-mail?

3. What expressions does the writer use to achieve this purpose? Underline them.

4. What other expressions for achieving the same purpose can you think of?

B. Now read the situations 1-4 and use the phrases/expressions provided to express your opinion, give advice and provide an explanation.

1. I don't know why, but I've recently lost my appetite and I'm losing weight fast. At first, I didn't mind, but now I'm getting worried. What do you think I should do?

About.../1 think/don't think.../1 strongly advise you to.../ That way you will...

2. Ever since I moved house I've been feeling depressed! I don't know what to do to get myself out of this state! Any suggestions?

Have you tried.../Another thing you could do is.../Doing this will help you...

3. I'm presently preparing for my end of year exams. Besides feeling very stressed, I've noticed that I'm putting on weight. Any ideas as to how I can lessen the stress I'm experiencing and lose some pounds at the same time?

If I were you, I'd.../ It is also a good idea to.../ Also try.../ This will help by...

4. Schools are out for the summer, but instead of being happy, I'm bored. You see, my friends are all on holiday and I'm stuck here on my own. What should I do to pass my time?

Why don't you... / This is a good way to...because.../ You can also try...

4. WRITING TASK

Date: 2016-04-22; view: 1112