Business letters in english

Business letters are formal paper communications between, to or from businesses and usually sent through the Post Office or sometimes by courier. Business letters are sometimes called snailmail (in contrast to email which is faster). This lesson concentrates on business letters but also looks at other business correspondence.

Business Letters in English Business letters are formal paper communications between, to or from businesses and usually sent through the Post Office or sometimes by courier Business letters are sometimes called "snail-mail" (in contrast to email which is faster) This lesson concentrates on business letters but also looks at other business correspondence It includes:     letter memo fax email Who writes Business Letters? Most people who have an occupation have to write business letters Some write many letters each day and others only write a few letters over the course of a career Business people also read letters on a daily basis Letters are written from a person/group, known as the sender to a person/group, known in business as the recipient Here are some examples of senders and recipients:        business «» business business «» consumer job applicant «» company citizen «» government official employer «» employee staff member «» staff member person «» person Why write Business Letters? There are many reasons why you may need to write business letters or other correspondence:              to persuade to inform to request to express thanks to remind to recommend to apologize to congratulate to reject a proposal or offer to introduce a person or policy to invite or welcome to follow up to formalize decisions Formatting Business Letters Block format is the most common format used in business today With this format, nothing is centred The sender's address, the recipient's address, the date and all new paragraphs begin at the left margin, like this: Wicked Wax Co Ltd 22 Charlton Way London, SE10 8QY « SENDER'S ADDRESS « may be printed company logo and address 5th December, 2006 « DATE Ms Maggie Jones Angel Cosmetics Inc 110 East 25th Street New York, NY, 10021 USA « RECIPIENT'S ADDRESS Your ref: 123 Our ref: abc « RECIPIENT'S REFERENCE (IF ANY) « SENDER'S REFERENCE (IF ANY) Dear Ms Jones, « SALUTATION Forthcoming Exhibition « SUBJECT First paragraph Second paragraph « BODY OF LETTER Third paragraph Sincerely, « CLOSING Morris Howard « SIGNATURE (HAND-WRITTEN) Morris Howard, President « NAME, TITLE (TYPED) cc: Brian Waldorf « COPY TO Enc: catalogue « ENCLOSURE Planning a Business Letter A business letter is not a place for chit-chat Unlike business conversations where a certain amount of small talk is used to break the ice, a business letter should be clear and concise By taking time to plan your letter, you will save time in the writing and proofreading stages During the planning stage, ask yourself a few simple questions Jot down your answers to create an outline before you start writing Who am I writing this letter to? Identifying your audience always comes first Are you writing to more than one person, to someone you don't know, or to someone you have known for a long time? This will help you determine how formal the letter needs to be You may need to introduce yourself briefly in the letter if the recipient does not know you You may also need to find out the updated address and title of the recipient This is a good time to confirm the correct spelling of first and last names Why am I writing this letter? The main reason for the letter should be understood from the subject line and first few sentences You may cover more than one thing in one business letter, but there will almost always be a general reason for the letter Identify your main goal and what you hope to accomplish Review some example reasons why people write business letters on the introductory page of this lesson Are there specific details I need to include? Gather any dates, addresses, names, prices, times or other information that you may need to include before you write your letter Double check details rather than relying on your memory Do I require a response? Many types of business letter require a response Others are written in response to a letter that has been received Before you start writing, determine whether or not you require an action or response from the recipient Your request or requirement should be very clear In some cases you may even need to provide a deadline for a response If you require a response, how should the recipient contact you? Indicate this information clearly as well You may want to provide more than one option, such as an email address and a phone number How can I organize my points logically? Think about how you would organize your thoughts if you were speaking rather than writing to the recipient First you would introduce yourself Second you would state your concern or reason for writing After the main content of your letter you would include information on how you can be contacted The end of the letter is also a place to express gratitude, wish good-luck, or offer sympathy Here is an example outline: RECIPIENT     Karen Jacobson Acquaintance (met twice before, briefly) Title: President, The Flying Club Address: 44 Windermere Drive, Waterloo, Ontario L1B 2C5 REASON    To invite a board member to remain on the board for a second term Other members suggested that she has enjoyed this position and has been thinking about staying on No other volunteers have come forward to take over at the end of September SPECIFIC DETAILS   If she decides to stay on she will need to be available for the national meeting on November Board members who stay for two terms are sometimes asked to take on extra duties, such as taking minutes or hosting social events RESPONSE   She will need to respond by September She can contact me by email or phone ORGANIZATION        Return address of our institution Karen Jacobson's title and address Salutation: Dear Ms Jacobson First paragraph: Introduce myself briefly remind Karen where we met before Provide my reason for writing: "I have heard from a number of board members that you may be interested in staying on for a second term We would be very pleased to have you stay on for another year." Second paragraph: Explain what type of commitment this position will involve this year (once a month meetings, national meeting, plus possible extra duties) Third Paragraph: Provide deadline for response and how to contact me Closing: Express thanks to Karen for volunteering her time this year Writing a Business Letter The term "business letter" makes people nervous Many people with English as a second language worry that their writing is not advanced enough for business writing This is not the case An effective letter in business uses short, simple sentences and straightforward vocabulary The easier a letter is to read, the better You will need to use smooth transitions so that your sentences not appear too choppy Salutation First and foremost, make sure that you spell the recipient's name correctly You should also confirm the gender and proper title Use Ms for women and Mr for men Use Mrs if you are 100% sure that a woman is married Under less formal circumstances, or after a long period of correspondence it may be acceptable to address a person by his or her first name When you don't know the name of a person and cannot find this information out you may write, "To Whom It May Concern" It is standard to use a comma (colon in North America) after the salutation It is also possible to use no punctuation mark at all Here are some common ways to address the recipient:           Dear Mr Powell, Dear Ms Mackenzie, Dear Frederick Hanson: Dear Editor-in-Chief: Dear Valued Customer Dear Sir or Madam: Dear Madam Dear Sir, Dear Sirs Gentlemen: First paragraph In most types of business letter it is common to use a friendly greeting in the first sentence of the letter Here are some examples:     I hope you are enjoying a fine summer Thank you for your kind letter of January 5th I came across an ad for your company in The Star today It was a pleasure meeting you at the conference this month  I appreciate your patience in waiting for a response After your short opening, state the main point of your letter in one or two sentences:    I'm writing to enquire about I'm interested in the job opening posted on your company website We'd like to invite you to a members only luncheon on April 5th Second and third paragraphs Use a few short paragraphs to go into greater detail about your main point If one paragraph is all you need, don't write an extra paragraph just to make your letter look longer If you are including sensitive material, such as rejecting an offer or informing an employee of a layoff period, embed this sentence in the second paragraph rather than opening with it Here are some common ways to express unpleasant facts:    We regret to inform you It is with great sadness that we After careful consideration we have decided Final paragraph Your last paragraph should include requests, reminders, and notes on enclosures If necessary, your contact information should also be in this paragraph Here are some common phrases used when closing a business letter:          I look forward to Please respond at your earliest convenience I should also remind you that the next board meeting is on February 5th For futher details If you require more information Thank you for taking this into consideration I appreciate any feedback you may have Enclosed you will find Feel free to contact me by phone or email Closing Here are some common ways to close a letter Use a comma between the closing and your handwritten name (or typed in an email) If you not use a comma or colon in your salutation, leave out the comma after the closing phrase:          Yours truly, Yours sincerely, Sincerely, Sincerely yours Thank you, Best wishes All the best, Best of luck Warm regards, Topic 1: You are looking for a part-time job Write a letter to an employment agency.In your letter  Introduce yourself  Explain what sort of job you would like  And say what experience and skills you have Topic 2: You have seen an advertisement for part-time work in a hotel for three months over the summer Write a letter to the Manager In your letter  Say what experience you have  Ask what the work involves  Enquire about conditions Topic 3: You are going on a short course to a training college abroad It is a college that you have not been to before Write a letter to the accommodation officer.In your letter  Give details of your course and your arrival/departure date  Explain your accommodation needs  Ask for information about getting to and from the college Topic 4: Write a letter to the accommodation officer at the college.In your letter:  Explain your situation  Describe the accommodation you require  Say when you will need Topic 5: You will move to a new city for work You know some people who live there  Ask them for help finding accommodation  Tell them where you would like to live  Tell them the type of place you are looking for Topic 6: You live in a room in college which you share with another student.You find it very difficult to work there because he or she always has friends visiting.They have parties in the room and sometimes borrow your things without asking you Topic 7: You are due to move into a rented apartment next month but you will not be able to because you have some problems Write a letter to the landlord.In your letter:  Explain your situation  Describe your problems  Tell him/her when you think you can move in  You should write at least 150 words  You NOT need to write your own address Topic 8: You cannot go to a company where you got an offer.Write a letter to the HR supervisor to 1.Explain the reason why you decline the offer 2.Express you gratitude 3.Explain you like your current job very much Topic One of your pen pals will shortly be visiting your city.For some reasons,you cannot manage to meet him at the airport on time Write a letter asking him to wait for you at the airport and tell him how to identify you Topic 10: You have been offered a job,asking you to start next week.You want the job very much but,because of a previous commitment,you want to delay the start for another two weeks Write to the Manager, accepting the job,but explaining your situation and asking for the change to your start date Topic 11: You have just spent a weekend at a friend’s house.When you returned home,you discovered you have left a coat containing some belongings in his house Write a letter to your friend telling him that you left the coat.Tell him what the coat looks like,where you think you left it and what was inside it.Make some suggestions about how to get it back Topic 12: You borrowed an important textbook from a classmate last term You now realize your classmate has returned home overseas and you still have the book Write a letter to him/her.In your letter  Apologize for the mistake  Find out how important the book is to him/her  Say what you will Topic 13: You are an international student and have borrowed a book from the local public library.You left the book on a bus and when you contacted the bus company,they could not find it.Write a letter to the librarian explaining the situation and asking what you should  You should write at least 150 words Topic 14: An English-speaking friend wants to spend a two-week holiday in your region and has written asking for information and advice Write a letter to your friend.In your letter  Offer to find somewhere to stay  Give advice about what to  Give information about what clothes to bring Topic 15: A friend of yours is going on holiday soon and has asked you to recommend a destination Write a letter to your friend and recommend a good place for a holiday that you have visited before.Say where you went,where you stayed,what you can there and what the food was like Topic 16: A friend you met last year has invited you to visit them in their country You have never been there before and need some information before you leave Write a letter to your friend.In your letter  Request advice about a gift for his/her family  Ask about activities and clothing  Find out about the food  You should write at least 150 words  You NOT need to write your own address Topic 17: You have recently been to stay with an old friend for a few days.You hadn’t seen each other for a long time  Say how you felt about the visit  Refer to something enjoyable that you did while staying with him/her  Invite your friend to visit you Topic 18: You recently visited a place that had a strong impact on you Write a letter to a friend about the place.In your letter  Explain where the place was and how you got there  Descibe what you saw  Offer to take your friend there Topic 19: You eat at your college cafeteria every lunchtime.However,you think it needs some improvements Write a letter to the college magazine.In your letter  Explain what you like about the cafeteria  Say what is wrong with it  Suggest how it could be improved Topic 20: You would like to buy some electrical goods at a shop in a nearby town Write a letter to the shop and ask if they have the things you want or whether they will be able to order them.Ask what the prices are and how long they will be able to hold the goods for you Topic 21: Your neighbors have recently written to you to complain about the noise from your flat Write a letter to your neighbors.In your letter  Explain the reasons for the noise  Apologize  Describe what action you will take Samples for writing Topic 1- (format letter) Chú ý: Đọc kỹ cấu trúc thư Viết lại nhiều lần theo ý Có không hiểu phải hỏi gấp Học xong phải nhà học lại để tránh tình trạng quên Có thể tham khảo nhiều mẫu sách Học từ vựng ngày để viết tốt Học tốt nhe Dear Sir/ Madam, I am writing to express my interest in position you have advertised for……1…….as (a waiter, a waitress, a receptionist, a wait staff, an assistant staff, a reception desk, Hotel Housekeeping Attendant) I saw it on………… I am studying ………….at…………….university I am looking for this job to get experience and money for my life I can work from…….to…….all weekdays I worked as…… at………hotel (company) last year I enjoyed it because I got a lot of experience and skills such as the customer interaction, team work, communication skills, customer service skills, adaptability, problem solving, interpersonal skills In this position, I honed my interpersonal skills through customer service, clerical responsibilities (in-phone, telephone, and electronic correspondence, mail), and by assessing and responding to the various tasks a vibrant work environment brings I am honest, reliable, friendly and easy to get along with, as well as being a quick learner.(I have the skills and experience required to competently take on this role and I am confident that I would work to exceed your expectations)/ (I believe that these are the kinds of skills and abilities you are seeking in this position and I can meet your demands) Thank you for your consideration I would like to meet you next week to discuss this position with you further I would appreciate a reply at your earliest convenience by calling me at 232-231-4563 or sending email chamchihoc@gmail.com I very much look forward to hearing from you and thank you for considering my application Yours Sincerely, Topic 3-6 (recommendation letter format) Chú ý: Đọc kỹ cấu trúc thư Viết lại nhiều lần theo ý Có không hiểu phải hỏi gấp Học xong phải nhà học lại để tránh tình trạng quên Có thể tham khảo nhiều mẫu sách Học từ vựng ngày để viết tốt Học tốt nhe Dear Sir/Madam, My name is … … … I am a (student at XX university/ a farmer from …/ a worker from…) I am writing to inform you that … (1)… I will be arriving on … … … and will be leaving on ……… I will require … (a single room/ a double room/ a room in a family house) I would prefer … (2) … I would be grateful if … (3) … Could you please tell me how much this will cost and how I should make a payment? Thank you for your consideration I would appreciate a reply at your earliest convenience by calling me at 223-231-4563 or sending email chamchihoc@gmail.com Yours sincerely, XXX Topic 3: (1) I will be attending the Advanced Life Insurance course at the University of Hartford (2) My own bathroom, if this is possible, but not mind sharing if I have to; (3) You could provide some information about getting to and from the University Will I need to take public transport from the station or is there a University bus service? Topic 4: (1) I have been accepted to take a one-month training course at Green mount Agricultural College starting next January (2) A room nears the college because I will not have time to learn my way around (3) You could either find me accommodation for the month or give me a list of addresses which I could write to Topic 5: (1) I will move to live in the city for work (2) To live somewhere new with a private bathroom, a kitchen and some kind of living room (3) You could give me somewhere to live close to where I am going to be working, or in the downtown district If possible I would like to be near some shops and near a park Topic :(1) I wish to move into a new room next term, as I find the present sharing arrangement inconvenient The reasons are that my roommate always has friends visiting, having parties in the room and sometimes borrow my things without asking me (2) My own bathroom (3) You could find a room for me, preferably not in the same building but as near to the college campus as possible I regret to inform you that … (1) …, 7: (1) I will no longer be able to move in, as my plans have had to change I am really so sorry about this 8: (1) I decline your generous invitation and I am really so sorry this has happened 9: (1) I will not be able to meet you at the airport as soon as you arrive I am really so sorry about this 10: (1) I have delayed the job which you have offered although I really want it I am really so sorry about this I have received your letter to request me to this immediately However, After careful consideration I have decided (not) to this Because … 7: (2) I had a problem Last summer vacation, I traveled to … I had a traffic accident I fell on the road and broke my hand (leg…) My head hurt I went to see a doctor The doctor advised me to take a rest about…in hospital I am unable to write for the time being (last month, my mother got sick, she went go see a doctor The doctor advised her to take a rest in hospital Unluckily, My family has only people: my mother and me So I had to take care of her.) 8: (2) my family has just moved to another place which is far from your company So it is difficult for me to travel to work ( I have got a MBA scholarship Next month, I will go Singapore to attend this course So I don’t have time to work with you) 9: (2) Your flight will arrive early in the morning, and I cannot get to the airport on time because I have to take my brother to school 10: (2) I have a important previous commitment which is my sister's wedding After the wedding, I will travel a few days with my parents who wanted me to travel because I have lived for years far from home I love this job so much because it is suitable for me and my major It is difficult to find a good job I passed your interview successfully and the company chose me I promise to bring a lot of benefits for your company I would like to delay … (3) … I hope this will not cause you any difficulties I am really sorry that I am informing you about this change so late but I am also sure that you will understand my situation and cooperation with me 7: (3) for five weeks When I recover and feel better I will call you to discuss this problem this offer I passed your interview successfully and the company chose me I am happy because I want to this job so much it is suitable for me and my major 9: (3) for an hour after you land Please wait for me in the arrival lounge You should have breakfast there while you wait By the way, as we have never met I tell you how to recognize me: I am (of medium height/ tall/ short) and have (a small mustache/ black hair/ blond hair) In addition, I will be carrying a (newspaper/ black suitcase/ bunch of flower) on my hand 10: (3) for another two weeks Could you delay the start date for me? Bài 11 -13 Chú ý: Đọc kỹ cấu trúc thư Viết lại nhiều lần theo ý Có không hiểu phải hỏi gấp Học xong phải nhà học lại để tránh tình trạng quên Có thể tham khảo nhiều mẫu sách Học từ vựng ngày để viết tốt Học tốt nhe I’m writing this letter to inform you that… 11 I has forgotten my coat in your house 12 I still have your book which I borrowed you 13 I have lost a book which I borrowed you I am … I am a student at …… I am really so sorry this has happened As you know, 11 I have just spend a week at your house to university project I was very happy when we did the project well We had good marks 12 I borrowed your grammar book on …… It was very useful for me It was a good book I could understand and it helped me learn and improve English quickly So I could the final exam with good marks 13 I borrowed …… on …… It was very useful for me It was a good book I could understand and it helped me learn and improve English quickly So I could the final exam with good marks Unfortunately, 11 I have forgotten my coat in your house While I was eating dinner with your family, I hang my coat on … beside your bathroom It is white/ brown/ It looks beautiful The coat has my usb, ID card, passport, pens, student’s card, … inside it 12 When the final exam ended I quickly returned home overseas I now realize that I still have the book I forgot return it to you 13 when I was on the bus going home, I read this book I was tired so I fell asleep I woke up at the bus stop and got off the bus I realized that I forgot to bring this book on the bus I tried to contact the bus company and a driver next day However, they could not find it I sincerely apologize for any inconvenience caused by my mistake 11 Can you return it for me next week? Or my friend, John, will get it for me next week? 12 I will return it for you next week if you need it Or Can I send you money so that you can buy a new one 13 I will buy a new one and return it to you or Can I send money so that you can buy a new one? I’m writing this letter to inform you that I has forgotten my coat in your house I am … I am a student at …… I am really so sorry this has happened As you know, I have just spend a week at your house to university project I was very happy when we did the project well We had a good marks Unfortunately, I have forgotten my coat in your house While I was eating dinner with your family, I hang my coat on … beside your bathroom It is white/ brown/ It looks beautiful The coat has my usb, ID card, passport, pens, student’s card, … inside it I sincerely apologize for any inconvenience caused by my mistakes Can you return it for me next week? Or my friend, John, will get it for me next week? Thank you for your consideration I would appreciate a reply at your earliest convenience Please call me at 232-231-4563 or send email chamchihoc@gmail.com I’m delighted that … (1) … I think you can stay… (2) … There are lots of things to You can enjoy many beautiful places in my country There are … (3) … You should bring … (4) … Please let me know exactly when you're coming so that I can meet you at the airport Thank you for your consideration I would appreciate a reply at your earliest 14: (1) you are coming to Vietnam next month to spend a two-week holiday (2) with me and my family in Binh Duong province Otherwise, if you prefer, I can easily book a cheap and comfortable hotel for you near the beach where you can be more independent (3) several interesting museums and temples which I’m sure you will enjoy One place you really should visit is an excellent theme park called Dai Nam, where you’ll want to spend the whole day Also, you ought to go to our excellent night safari, which is about an hour away by bus (4) a coat, T- shirts, Jeans and a jacket because it’s a bit cooler in the evening 10 convenience by calling me at 223-231-4563 or sending email chamchihoc@gmail.com Regards, XXX (I am writing this letter to inform you that I have received you letter.) 15: (1) you are free and you‛re thinking of going on holiday Well I can certainly recommend one destination for you Lask year, I went to they are beautiful places in VN (2) at the …… hotel in the centre of town, and a campsite just outside town (house for rent near….) (3) a beautiful beach, a golf course, explore Cat Tien national forest, the fishing is excellent and there are fantastic hills nearby for walking in amazing scenery If it‛s wet there‛s a small cinema in town but that‛s about all Take some board games! (4) comfortable clothes to move easily The food is good in the hotels You can eat special food such as :… They are fantastic 17: (1) I stayed with you for a few days It was good to see you after so long, and to be able to spend some time with you, talking about old school friends and teachers I particularly enjoyed our trip to the wildlife and appreciated the opportunity to see so many rare birds and animals I saw many beautiful places such as… moreover, I enjoyed many kinds of food I loved it so much I gave me a lot of experience and good memories (2) with me next month so that I can introduce special things in my country (3) plenty of places we can go and my brother would really like to see you (4) comfortable clothes with you 18: (1) I had a wonderful holiday in… In the morning, I climbed a mountain (hill) called … in the afternoon, I explore … caves In the afternoon, I go swimming with my brothers The beach is beautiful In the evening, my family and I go to coffee shop and eat seafood It is very interesting We hired a car to travel everywhere we wanted In fact, … is the most beautiful place I have ever seen (2) with me next month to join in our next trip (3) some mountain walks for us to exercise (4) comfortable clothes with you Topic 16: Chú ý: Đọc kỹ cấu trúc thư Viết lại nhiều lần theo ý Có không hiểu phải hỏi gấp Học xong phải nhà học lại để tránh tình trạng quên Có thể tham khảo nhiều mẫu sách Học từ vựng ngày để viết tốt Học tốt nhe Dear xx, Hi there, I hope you're enjoying your college year Thanks very much for asking me to come and visit you in Singapore As you know, I haven't travelled to Asia before, so I thought I'd write and ask you a few questions I want to bring a present with me and I wondered what would be appropriate Perhaps you could let me know what your mum's/dad’s hobbies are and then I could come up with an idea based on one of them Also, what sort of clothes should I bring? Do I need jumpers or a coat? What sort of activities are we likely to while I'm there and should I bring things like swimming costume/ swimming gear/ trainers/ hat Lastly, what about the food? I hate to be nuisance but I hope you remember that I'm vegetarian I eat fish and eggs but I don't eat red meat and chicken at all Is that going to be a problem? Thank you for your consideration I would appreciate a reply at your earliest convenience by calling me at 223-231-4563 or sending email chamchihoc@gmail.com Look forward to hearing from you Regards, XXX 11 Topic 19 Chú ý: Đọc kỹ cấu trúc thư Viết lại nhiều lần theo ý Có không hiểu phải hỏi gấp Học xong phải nhà học lại để tránh tình trạng quên Có thể tham khảo nhiều mẫu sách Học từ vựng ngày để viết tốt Học tốt nhe Dear … I am writing this letter to inform you that I would like to appreciate your cafeteria and suggest some improvements I eat at college cafeteria every lunch time The college cafeteria provides some foods for students college I like to have lunch there because the situation and condition this place is good to relax The foods are very delicious Besides, the price of foods are cheaper than other location in the campus (reasonable) However, the students sometimes must wait a long time if they already ordered some menus Moreover, they have to search other places to eat because the area of the college cafeteria is small and very dirty The tables and chairs are dirty so the students could not stay a long time to enjoy Because of that, I would suggest that the college cafeteria should clean the area and replace chairs and tables in around this place Furthermore, the college cafeteria should realize that they have to give the best service to consumers I wish my letter could help to improve this place Thanks for your attention Yours Faithfully, Topic 20 Chú ý: Đọc kỹ cấu trúc thư Viết lại nhiều lần theo ý Có không hiểu phải hỏi gấp Học xong phải nhà học lại để tránh tình trạng quên Có thể tham khảo nhiều mẫu sách Học từ vựng ngày để viết tốt Học tốt nhe Dear Mr…………, I am writing this letter to inform you that I would like to ………… They are …………(TVs, air conditioners, fans, washing machines, Electric irons, Electric rice cookers…) As we discussed, these…… cost $ and ……… cost $ I would appreciate it if you would deliver this order on or before because I need them for my new house (give them to my wife) These goods are important to me so you can let me know: Are they available now? And are there any changes in prices? How long can you hold the goods for me?I am enclosing a money order for $ If there are additional charges, please let me know Thank you for your kind understanding I would appreciate a reply at your earliest convenience.Please confirm that you received this order by calling me at 232-231-4563 or sending email chamchihoc@gmail.com anytime during business hours, Monday to Friday Sincerely, Topic 21 Chú ý: Đọc kỹ cấu trúc thư Viết lại nhiều lần theo ý Có không hiểu phải hỏi gấp Học xong phải nhà học lại để tránh tình trạng quên Có thể tham khảo nhiều mẫu sách Học từ vựng ngày để viết tốt Học tốt nhe Dear Mr Jones, I am writing in response to your letter, complaining about the noise from your fat I am sorry and ask for your forgiveness Actually, I am a student at Thu Dau Mot University My major is… Next week, I have taken the final exam So I and my friends often gather and discuss lessons We often stay up late to learn lessons until AM Some friends speak very aloud because they are eager to discuss lessons Sometimes they are joke and laugh too noisy To achieve my goal I am supposed to learn about 12 days Once again, please accept my apologies for doing the lessons in inappropriate hours I told my friends about this problem so that they controlled their voice Next week, we will finish the final exam There are no noise from my flat Thank you for your consideration I would appreciate a reply at your earliest convenience by calling me at 223-231-4563 or sending email chamchihoc@gmail.com Yours sincerely, Anna Frank Speaking Warm-up  Could you show me your identification card please?  Could you tell me your full name please?  What shall I call you?  Does your name have any special meaning?  Why so many people change their names?  Is your name important to you? Hometown or birth place  Where you come from?  Where you live?  Can you tell me something about your hometown?  Can you tell me some famous landscapes or scenic spots in your hometown?  Can you tell me some history of your hometown? Personal background and information  Are you a student or you have a job?  What you like most about your study?  What kind of you prefer after graduation?  What is your major?  What you for living?  Could you tell me a typical day of yours?  How you get your job?  Are you satisfied with your job?  What you like most about your job?  What kind of job you prefer in the future? Hobby or inclination  What you usually in your spare time?  Do you prefer to stay alone or with your friends?  What you usally on weekends and weekdays?  What you usually when you go out?  What you usually with your friends?  Do you like reading?  What kinds of books you like best?  Do you like English? Why or why not ?  What you think of the importance of English?  What are the good hobies and bad hobbies? Why ? Here you are My full name is ……………… Please call me…… Yes, it has special meaning It means (hero, flower, mountain…) I think they like new names to make them luckier Yes, it is very important to me because it brings luck to me I come from… I live in … My hometown is very beautiful… Such as… I am a student at … university It is an interesting subject It is practical I want to be a…… My major is …… I am a student so my parents support me In the morning, I go to school In the afternoon, I sleep, then I play sports In the evening, I learn and prepare lessons before class I am a student I stay at home and attend classes I often listen to music, play sports, go coffee shop with my friends Go travelling… When I study, I prefer to stay alone It helps me study faster Sometimes, I prefer to stay with my friend I like chatting with them On weekdays, I go to school On weekends, I come back my hometown When I go out, I often invite my friends to go to coffee shop… I often chat with them, study and discuss lessons with them I love reading so much I love reading comic books, novel books, science books, cartoon books I like English because I can learn many things such as cultures, customs and I can make new friends 13 English is very important because I can get a good job and I can read a lot of English books Good hobbies are like good friends They help us better in life Bad hobbies are like bad friends They are not good for me in life Such as stay up late (bad for health) Eat a lot of fastfood Future plan  Why you take the TOEIC or IELTS test?  What you planning to in the next five years ?  What are you planning to in the next ten years ?  What is the first thing you will when you arrive at the new place? Because I want to get a good job and I want to improve my English In the next five years, I will find a good job and get marriage In the next ten years, I will have babies and build my own house The first thing, I will find a good and convenient place, then I will eat special food, next I will go sightseeing Traveling  Do you like traveling?  Do you like traveling alone or with your friends?  Have you traveled to other places? Where are they?  What you usually when you first arrive in a new place?  What are the benefits of traveling?  Why so many people like traveling nowadays?  Do you think it’s true that travel broadens the mind?  Do young people and older people benefit differently from traveling?  How can you make sure you get the most from your travels? Family       I love traveling so much when I have free time I often travel I love traveling with my friends because we can share joyness Yes, I have travelled to …… The first thing, I will find a good and convenient place, then I will eat special food, next I will go sightseeing It helps me reduce stress and learn new things… Because they work hard, they travel to reduce stress and learn new things Yes, I think so Because I can learn new things about cultures, customs, food….so on Young people want to explore new places and learn new things Old people want to reduce stress I think, we need to prepare and find information about places we want to travels Tell me something about your family What you like doing most with your family? Who are you close to in your family? In that way is your family important to you? In that ways have families changed in the last hundred years? Should we rely heavily on our families or is it better to try to be independent? I love my family so much I love watching TV and discuss with my family I am close to … He/she always teach me good lessons in life They are very important to me They share joyness and sadness with me I think so because in the past, our families love to gather and watch tv together Nowadays, there are many places and technologies attracting us Such as: facebook, cellphone, coffee shop… I am a student so I rely on my parents However, when I graduate, it is better to be independent I will find a good job Friends  Do you have many friends?Are they casual acquaintances or close friends?  Do you prefer to stay with your family or with your friends?  Do you prefer one or two close friends or many friends?  Can you talk about your best friend?  How to make friends?  What you usually with your friends?  Is the time you spend with your friends as much as that you spend with your family?  What you expect from a good friend?  Are friends as important to you as family?  Do you think friendships change as we get older?How?  What are the benifits of listening to music?  What kind of music you like best?  Why you like kind of music?  What is your favorite musical instrument? I have friends Their name are… They are my close friends I prefer to stay with my friends because we can discuss lessons and share many funny stories I prefer close friends My best friend is … she is beautiful She is tall she is very intelligent She is good at English She teaches me English She always helps me overcome problems in life I am a student I live in a rent house Everyday, I go to school so I spend a lot of time with my friends I expect form my good friend is loyal (he/ she need to be loyal), sense of humor (quick to laughter, slow to anger), passion (if the person doesn’t have passion, they have no goals Respect (respect me, my parents… ) Trust is the foundation of a relationship I think so, because I think she considers like my sister in my family I think so When we get older, we will have different hobbies so friendships change as we get older The benefits of listening to music are to reduce stress, love our life, feel confortable 14 I love pop music, K pop, country music, ballad, classical music I feel happy when I listen to this music I move my body I feel confortable and reduce stress I love piano, violin, trumpet, harmonica, flute, guitar becauce the sound is beautiful When I have freetime, I will learn to play it Transportation  Can you say something about the transportation in your hometown?  What is the common means of transport in your country?  Do traffic jams often occur in your hometown or in the city where you live?  How to solve the problem?  What changes in transportation have taken place in the past several years in your country? Sport        Are you good at sport? What sport you play? What is the most popular sport in your country? What you to keep fit? What are the best ways to keep fit? Do you think most people consider exercise a chore or they find it fun? What is the most popular form of exercise in your country?  I am living in BD province, the transportation in my hometown is good We often use motorbikes in my country Not often In rush hour, traffic jams in parking lots often occur at ….street I think we should reduce motorbikes, expand roads In the past, a few people have motorbikes in my countries However, there are a lot of motorbikes ,cars, and buses in my country No, I am not I often play… in my country, the most popular sport is football (soccer) I often play… And eat healthy food such as vegetables, fish… I think the best way to keep fit is play sports and eat healthy food Most people consider exercise a chore so many people not like exercise everyday It is bad for their health We often play sports in park, pavements and so on We can gather or stay at home to exercise Part Famous people that you admire(why?) According to you,what does famousness mean? Which famous people have you known? Among them,whom you admire the most? How long have you known that person? Why you admire that person? What personalities you learn from that person? Do you think that person also has some weak points? Can you list some of that person’s weak points? So,what you think about that person in general? 10 How you apply what you have learnt from that person to better your life? Today, I want to talk about the person I admire To me, the famousness means outstanding When we master something We will be famous A lot of people will know us There are a lot of famous singers, teachers, doctors, writers, such as: …… The person I admire most is my English teacher He is … He is….years old He is working at…… school (university) I have known him for ….year I admire him because he is intelligent, patient (kiên nhẫn), hardworking, and considerous I have learnt a lots from him However, He has some weak points such as: talkative, untidy, Overcritical (khắt khe) , nervous… In General, he is a good person I love him so much He is careful when he concludes something He never shouts at me when I make mistakes He always gives me good advice and says “ not make these mistakes again He is a good example for me Career and jobs What is your major? What kind of job you want to when you finish your study in TDMU? Why you want to that job? How you to apply for that job? Where you want to work after your graduation? Today, I want to talk about my (career and jobs) My name is… I am a student at TDM University I am a freshman, sophomore, Junior, senior My major is ……… when I finish my study, I want to be a good…… This job is good for me and our society I love this job when I was a child My parents want me to choose this job, too Vietnam is a developing country so it needs a lot of good… It is easy for me cho apply for this job 15 How can English help you in your job? How much salary you want to be paid every month when you apply for a job? According to you,what is the most important qualification for an employee? How you to have a job interview? 10 What you say in your job interview? Recent technological devices(computer,cellphone,etc)that have helped mankind change life What are recent technological devices, as you have known so far? According to you,which recent technological device has change mankind’s life the most significantly? Why you think so? What are its strong points? Has it got any weak points? In your opinion,who will enjoy its benefits the most? Why you say so? Who may suffer from its weak points? What should we to invalidate its weak points? Study and school life What is your major? Why you choose that major? Have you got any difficulties in your study in the present time? Where you live at present? What you think about student life ? According to you, what are advantages of the student life? What are the disadvantages of the student life? What you to overcome difficulties in your student life if any? Can you cook? 10 What you think about student love in the campus? Media In your opinion, what is “Media”? English is very useful for my job because information, good books, materials are written in English so I can search on the internet I can communicate with foreigners When I apply for this job, I will want to be paid $ … Every month It helps me support my life and my family To me, the most important qualification for an employee is knowledge (experience) because we can solve problems quickly I will apply for companies to have a ob interview In my job interview, I will discuss many things such as: my knowledge, experience, salary, and why I choose this job and I can help the company better I have known a lot of recent technological devices such as cellphone, laptop, tablets, so on To me, cellphone (laptop, computer ) has change mankind’s life Because it is easy to communicate with other people We can search good books and materials for studying We can play games for relaxing The strong points of … We can use it for our work, save time, and it helps people connect easier However, the weak points of … We spend a lot of money, waste of time when chatting or play games Addictive, (cause bad health Affect our eyes) To me, everybody will enjoy its benefits For example, students can search good books and materials Adults can use for work It helps them solve the problems quickly Teens may suffer form week points because they use the device a lots We should balace how to use it suitably to invalidate its weak points I am a student at TDM university My major is …… I choose this major because it is interesting This job is good for me and our society I love this job when I was a child My parents want me to choose this job, too Vietnam is a developing country so it needs a lot of good… There are a lot of difficulties in my study in the present time For example, it is hard for me to find good books and places for practice Our major need to practice much And I need to learn living skills We need experience to prepare for future job I am living in Binh Duong province To me, the student life is great I have happy memories and sad memories with teachers and friends The advantages of the student life are that I can what I want and I am free when going out with my friends I can live independently I can learn myself The disadvantages of the student life are that I have to take responsibilities what I choose in our life I have to solve problems in the student life because I am old enough to solve these problems Sometimes, I feel alone I am studying so I not have enough money to spend private life I try to overcome difficulties in my life I share my point of view with friends or parents so that they can understand me and help me overcome difficulties easier I can cook some simple meals such as: fried eggs Boiled eggs Rice noodle, sweet and sour fish broth (canh chua), tofu, soya cheese (đậu phụ) Curry chicken grill (nướng), roast (quay), fry (chiên, rán), stew (hầm, ninh), steam (hấp) To me, student love in the campus is normal Because they are old enough to choose the best ideal person in their life Media is tools which are used to store and deliver information or 16 What kinds of media you know? What kind of media you often use in your daily life? How you use media to help yourself on life and study? What kind of media you like most? Can you explain the reason why you like it? Have you got a hand phone? How much money you spend on your handphone in a month? Do you know how to use the internet? 10 What you often on the internet? Travel and Holidays? Do you like traveling? Which places did you travel to? What you often in your trips? What have you learnt from your trips? When you often travel? Whom you like traveling with? What holidays you like most in a year? In your holidays, where you often travel? Why you choose those places? 10 How much money you often spend in each trip? Traffic and Transportation? Have you got a motorbike? How you travel in your daily life? How much money you often spend on your traveling in a month? What means of transportation you like most? Why you like that means of transportation? Have you had any traffic accident? Could you tell me about that traffic accident? What you think about the traffic situation in our country? In your view, what should we to solve traffic problems in our country? 10 What should we to avoid traffic accidents? City vs Countryside Where are you from? What you think about your homeland? Where you like living, a city or the countryside? Why you like living there? According to you, what are advantages of living in a city? What are disadvantages of living in a city? What should we to overcome disadvantages of life in a city? What are advantages of living in the countryside? What are disadvantages of living in the countryside? 10 What should we to overcome disadvantages data Such as: newspaper, magazines, TV, radio, cinema, advertisement, computer networks (email, facebook Yahoo…) I use internet everyday because it is popular and convinent for me to use it I search good ebooks, materials relating to my study Moreover, I use facebook to chat and contact with my friends I use cellphone My father gave me for my birthday I spend about ….a month I love use the internet everyday because I can find information I need I love traveling so much I love traveling to … because they are beautiful I often travel with my friends I go sightseeing, go for work to explore new places I have learnt many things from my trips Such as: different cultures, food, and experience in life I often travel when I have free time or on holidays I often invite my friends or my brother go with me I love tet holiday, because it is a traditional holiday in Vietnam My family can visit ralatives and enjoy good food In my holidays, I often travel to …… Because they are beautiful and I can enjoy my life in there Every year, I often save money to travel places I like I often spend … in each trip I have a motorbike which my father gave me on my birthday I use it to travel anywhere I like such as going to school, going supermarket, going to travel… However, it is very expensive for me to pay for petrol I spend about …… on my traveling in a month The mean of transportation I like most is motorbike (bus) Because I can travel anywhere I like and it is convenient and easy to use motorbikes to go out in my country I had a traffic accident when I was in high school On the way to school I was late I sped up.It was dangerous because I drove fast and hit old man That was a traffic accident I never forget in my life Luckily, no one was injured To me, the traffic situation in our country is complicated (complex) We need a good method to solve traffic problems in our country The government should give laws to fine bad drivers Moreover, we should be educated how to drive carefully and protect our life We should realize that traffic accidents are bad for everyone No one wants this We should learn a lot traffic laws and take responsibilities what we We are living in modern life so we obey laws so that we can make our country better I am from… province It is big province in Vietnam To me, homeland is a place I was born and have a lot of memories My homeland is … there are a lot of beautiful places I like living in a city because it is the busy place for young people There are a lot of good companies and opportunities for young people in their career The advantages of living in a city are that we can choose and find our favorite job in big company to get high salary We can learn good knowledge from famous schools We can learn different cultures from friends and enjoy different food in many places The services are good The disadvantages of living in the city are that it is too crowded, the air and water is polluted People don’t care what you Who you are We feel lonely There are a lot of robbers In a big city, it is the place for us to learn new knowledge and get a lot of money to make life better so I try my best to get my goals 17 of life in the countryside? Health Have you got any health problems? What sicknesses you often have? What you often when you get sick? In your view,why we get sick? What should we to be healthy? What kinds of food are good for health? What kinds of food are bad for health? What kinds of drink should we drink to keep our health? Do you often body exercises in the morning? 10 What kinds of sports you like playing to keep your health? Rules and freedom In your opinion,what is a rule? Is it necessary for social activities? Why is it necessary? What happens if rules absent in public places? What inconveniences appear if rules are present in public places? Do you like freedom? According to you,what is freedom? What can you freely in your life? What happens to you if your freedom is taken away? 10 What should we when our individual freedom clash with the others’? Ideal life partner According to you, what you think about marriage? What are the advantages of marriage life? What are the disadvantages of marriage life? Do you plan to get married in life? What positive characteristics you expect in your life partner? What negative characteristics you expect in your life partner? How you to adapt yourself with your partner in marriage life? What you to solve problems in your conjugal life? Do you think that you can find out your ideal partner in your life? 10 Why you think so? The advantages of living in the countryside are that the air is clean, people are close and friendly The cost of living is low The disadvantages of living in the countryside are that the life is dull and quiet There are less big companies and schools The services are not good Living in the countryside is good for old people To me, I prefer living in the city to in the countryside Every year, I often get health problems Such as: sick, dizzy, tired and so on When I get sick, I often take a drug and take a rest for few days If I feel worse, I will go to see a doctor To me, I work so hard or travel I feel tired Sometimes, I often stay up late for studying We should balance between our study and time for relax Moreover, we should play sport to improve our health We need to eat healthy food such as vegetables, tofu, fish… We should avoid fast food and food contains a lot of fat They are not good for our health I often drink fresh water about litter every day to keep my health I often exercise in the morning I play… because I love it Rules are principles or regulations that everybody must obey and follow them to make our society in order It is necessary for social activities Because it is a tool for everyone follow If rules are absent in public places, People will what they want which sometimes hurt other people For example, we don’t have traffic rules Traffic accidents happen everywhere It is not convenient if rules are present in public places because the government wants everybody to be good I love freedom so much To me, freedom is good for everyone They can what they like They can create new arts and so on But we should be freedom in rules In Vietnam, I have right to learn and work to get money I will feel bored and not want to anything when my freedom is taken away We should respect our individual freedom Because we are a human being We have right to what we want And other people can that, too To me, Marriage is very important It is a new step to set up (build up) happiness in our life There are a lot of The advantages of marriage life such as we have true love, happy life, children, companion to old grow with, emotional support, Someone who understands you, Encourages personal growth, earn more money, responsibilities and so on However, there are the disadvantages of marriage life such as loss of freedom (not be able to eat, sleep, watch television, go out late), having financial expenses (spend a lot of money on our family) , not being able to put one’s own personal need first, and not having the time for his or her friends Share everything with partner Adjust habits between two people The positive characteristics I expect in my life partner are loyal (he/ she need to be loyal), sense of humor (quick to laughter, slow to anger), passion (if the person doesn’t have passion, they have no goals Respect (respect me, my parents… ) Trust is the foundation of a relationship The negative characteristics I not expect in my life partner are not loyal, not responsible, lazy, and so on I try to adjust my hobbies, habits to adapt myself with my partner in marriage life When we misunderstand, we need to share, discuss and solve problems I think we should not hit or shout at my partner when we 18 English Language Why you learn English? How long have you learnt English? What difficulties have you got when you learn English? How you to overcome your difficulties in learning English? According to you,which language skill is the most difficult in English-learning? Where you often learn English? With whom you often learn practice speaking English? Which materials you use to learn English? What equipment you often use to learn English? 10 How is English helpful to you in the present time? Things that you can’t live without(things you’d hate to be without) What thing is indispensable in your life? Why you think so? How does that thing affect your life? How long you need it in your life? What will you suffer if you live without it? When is it no longer necessary to you? Why is it unnecessary to you since that time? How will your life be after that? Have you ever confided your indispensable thing in life with other people? 10 How they react after having heard your heart-to-heart words? Social customs In your opinion,what is a social custom? Do we have to learn the social customs of our country?why? What happens to us when we follow our social customs? What happens to us if we don’t comply with our social customs? What you think about a foreign tourist when he does something that is strange to your customs? Can you explain the meaning of the proverd “when in Rome,do as the Romans do”? not know what problems are happening I think I can find out my ideal partner in our life because marriage is an important part in my life so I will choose a partner carefully English is a mandatory subject in my school I need to pass the exam to get my university degree Moreover, it helps me to get a good job, communicate with foreigners I have learnt English for … year (since I was a child) There are a lot of difficulties when I learn English such as cultures, pronounciation, vocabulary and so on I have practice everyday In fact, learning English is difficult for us so we need to take a lot of efforts and try our best I think practice makes perfect To me, the biggest problem when we learn English is culture We have to know English culture to learn English quickly Moreover, vocabulary is difficult to remember We often forget all vocabulary after a week Pronounciation is difficult We need to pronounce words exactly Listening skill is difficult so foreigners speak English too fast for me to listen Reading is difficult because I not have enough vocabulary to understand Writing is difficult because I need a lot of vocabulary and to learn how to write English Speaking skill is difficult because we need to pronounce exactly and practice everyday I often learn English in my school and in a English centre I often learn practice speaking English with my teachers and with my friends I often use textbooks such as: New headway, American English files, smart choice, connect, solution, cutting edge, … I often use headphone, books, pens, laptop, mp3, cellphone to learn English There are a lot of softwares learning English and we can learn English on the internet English is very important (helpful) for me in the present time because we need to pass the exam I can search a lot of books, materials on the internet and I help me to be confident to apply for a good job when I graduate Today, I want to talk about things that I can’t live without There are many things which we can’t live without them such as: electrics, internet, cellphone, facebook, laptop, motorbikes Because it is very important for me Everyday, I use it to connect with my friends, my family… I have used it for……… I think I am addictive to use it When I get a new job, I spend less time to use it I have to focus on my job My life has changed after that I feel I have more free time to good things in my life For example, I can play sports, travel with my friends and so on We should balance everything so that our life becomes better A social custome is something which people keep from this generation to another generation 19 Do you agree with the meaning of that proverd? In your view,why are there different social customs in the world? What will happen when cultural differences disappear in the world? 10 How should we prepare before we contact with a foreigner? The toughest decision of your life What is your toughest decision in your life? Could you tell me about that event in summary? Why did it happen to you? How did you tackle that decision? Why did it make you embarrassed? What did you to get to your final decision? Did you ask people around you for their advice? What life lesson did you learn from that event? Whom have you shared your experience with till now? 10 In general,in your opinion, what should we when we have to make a tough decision in life? Important or unforgettable event(s)in life Have you faced any unforgettable event in your life so far? Could you tell me about that event in summary? Why did it happen to you? What experience lessons you learn from that event? How you apply those experiences lessons in your remaining life? Have you ever shared that experience wish anybody? Whom have you shared up to now? Why you share your experience with that person? How you react if that event happens to you again? 10 How does that event affect your life after that? My toughest decision in my life is that I choose my major and I want to be a good… My parents don’t want me to choose this major and want me to be a good… because the salary is low and it is a hard job for me My parents want me to be a… but I cannot I am not suitable for this job I felt sad but I finally choose my majod and I want to be a good…I persuade my parents about month so that they permit me to choose this major My major is very intersting I can learn and practice in the real life I can help many people I think that is the toughest decision of my life Because it changes my future life I will never change my dream to become a good… Today I would like to talk about I cannot forget that moment when I knew I pass the exam and I attend university It was a big step in my life It was my dream My parents were happy, too They were proud of me They love me so much My father gave me a cellphone It ……… My mother cooked meals which I loved They invited their friends to enjoy the meal I was happy so much my teacher and my friend gave me a picture… We decide to go to travel to reduce stress I cannot forget this time I overcame myself to get a good score I often share this moment to my brother so that he can learn better Now, I try my best to learn my major I learn English so that I can overcome the……test 20 ... ENCLOSURE Planning a Business Letter A business letter is not a place for chit-chat Unlike business conversations where a certain amount of small talk is used to break the ice, a business letter... year Writing a Business Letter The term "business letter" makes people nervous Many people with English as a second language worry that their writing is not advanced enough for business writing This... patience in waiting for a response After your short opening, state the main point of your letter in one or two sentences:    I'm writing to enquire about I'm interested in the job opening posted