How to do this drill
- Identify relationship and power distance.
- Name the purpose verb.
- Write an opening that gives the reader immediate context.
Material
- A
- thank a neighbour for clearing a shared path.
- B
- ask a training provider to clarify an invoice.
- C
- recommend a crossing review to municipal staff after repeated evening observations. Each message needs a different level of familiarity, detail, and firmness even though all should remain respectful.
Your tasks
- Write a subject and two-sentence opening for each situation.
- Explain one tone choice in every opening.
Check your work
Finish the tasks first, then open the answer to compare.
Show the answer
Answer
A should be warm and specific; B neutral and information-seeking; C formal, factual, and evidence-led.
How to reach it
- Identify relationship.
- State purpose early.
- Calibrate warmth and firmness without changing facts.
Evidence
C model: ‘Subject: Evening crossing concern at Alder Centre. I am writing to report a recurring visibility issue I have observed at the Wren Street entrance between 5:30 and 7:00 p.m.’
Review your attempt
- Could the reader identify the purpose immediately?
- Would swapping openings between audiences sound inappropriate?
Take it further
Rewrite the municipal opening for a familiar neighbour and note which details no longer fit.
