Welcome to Communication, where you are going to learn to be a more effective communicator both on electronic platforms and in person.
Day 1
1. Make sure that you have a personal email address. If you do not, sign up for one with a free site like Gmail.
2. Send a test email to a parent or sibling.
Day 2
1. We are also going to practice texting! Make sure you know how to send a text message. If you need help, ask a parent.
2. Send a test message to anyone in your contacts.
Day 3
1. Read about how to write a professional email.
2. Here is an example of a poorly written, unprofessional email from a student to their teacher.
Subject: hey
hi
i need u to fix my grade cuz i turned in the homework but u didnt put it in yet. can u do it today?? its kinda important and i need it like asap.
also when is the test again cuz i forgot lol
– j
3. Rewrite the email to sound more professional and send it to your parent or teacher. (Sign off as yourself, as opposed to “j.”) Make sure you include the following:
- Subject line
- Salutation
- Body
- Sign-off/Signature
4. Record up to 5 points for this assignment, one for correcting each component above and one for correctly sending the message.
Day 4
1. When we write emails, the words we choose create a “tone,” or the attitude our writing communicates. Tone affects how the reader interprets our message. Even if we don’t mean to sound rude, rushed, or confused, the tone of our writing can accidentally send the wrong signal. That’s why choosing the right tone is an important communication skill. There are several common tones used in email:
Formal Tone:
Used when writing to teachers, employers, or people you don’t know well. This tone is polite, respectful, and clear. It avoids slang, emojis, and abbreviations. Sentences are complete and organized.
Subject: Question About Tonight’s Homework Assignment
Dear Mrs. Lopez,
I hope you are doing well. I am writing to ask for clarification about the math homework assigned today. I want to make sure I understand the instructions correctly before I complete it. Could you please confirm whether we are supposed to complete problems 1–20 or only the odd-numbered questions?Thank you very much for your time and help.
Sincerely,
Jordan
Neutral/Professional Tone:
Used for everyday communication that doesn’t require extreme politeness but still needs to sound mature. This tone is friendly, direct, and practical. It is appropriate for most school- or work-related emails.
Subject: Clarification on Homework?
Hi Mrs. Lopez,
I had a quick question about the math homework from today. Are we supposed to do problems 1–20 or just the odd ones? I want to make sure I’m doing the right assignment.Thanks!
Jordan
Informal Tone:
Used with close friends or people you know well. This tone may include casual language, abbreviations, emojis, or a relaxed style. Though informal tone is acceptable in personal communication, it is usually not appropriate for teachers or professional contacts. You are not required to use poor spelling and grammar to create an informal email, but it is acceptable and will not be penalized.
Subject: hey quick question
hey mrs lopez,
i kinda forgot what part of the hw we’re supposed to do lol is it 1–20 or just odds?
thanks!!
– jordan
Understanding tone helps you choose the right approach depending on who you are writing to, why you are writing, and how you want to be understood. A simple message, like asking a question or requesting help, can sound very different depending on the tone used. Practicing tone awareness ensures your message is received the way you intend.
2. Here is a sample email written in a neutral tone. Rewrite it twice, once in a more formal and one in a more informal tone. You do not need to send these emails today. Write them in a document one after the other. Have a parent or teacher evaluate your messages. Record up to 6 points, 3 for each message, if you successfully alter the tone.
Subject: Volunteer Schedule?
Hi Ms. Ramirez,
I wanted to double-check the volunteer schedule for this weekend’s community fair. Am I signed up for the Saturday morning shift or the afternoon shift? I want to make sure I arrive at the correct time.Thanks,
Jordan
Day 5
1. Imagine your school was hosting a Spring Activities Fair, and you were interested in joining a new club. You decide to email the club advisor to ask a few questions before signing up. Write an email to the advisor of a club you’re interested in. Choose one of the following examples, or select your own:
- Art Club
- Chess Club
- Environmental Club
- Drama Club
- Robotics Club
- Student Leadership Council
Your email must:
- Introduce yourself.
- Explain your interest in the club.
- Ask two questions (example: meeting times, requirements, events, or costs).
- Use a clear subject line.
- Use an appropriate tone for someone you don’t know well.
2. Write your email in a document, and record up to 5 points (for each of the required elements).
Day 6
1. Here’s another email assignment! Imagine a local business (you choose which one) has posted a flyer saying they are hiring part-time help. You want more information before applying. Write an email to the business asking for details about the job. Your email must include:
- A clear subject line
- A short introduction of who you are
- A sentence explaining why you’re emailing
- Two to three specific questions, such as: what are the job hours? Is prior experience required? How should I submit an application?
- A polite closing and your name
- A tone appropriate for a business contact (neutral or slightly formal)
2. Record up to 6 points for including the required elements.
