Writing Emails to Teachers, Coaches, Adults...

This is not to discourage students from writing emails to ask questions and continue positive dialogue with their teachers, however the purpose of this post identify the teachable moment before you...

Any email, despite it's content, is comparable to writing a cover letter for a job or scholarship. There are certain formal techniques which should be applied.

Basic Outline:

Dear _______________,

1st paragraph - state why you are writing. Use complete proper sentences. Do NOT use text slang, acronyms, or any other colloquialism that would give a potential employer a reason not to choose you.

Are you informing, or persuading? Does your paragraph get to the point? Do the sentences flow logically?

2nd paragraph - if needed - state any questions, or concerns you have. If you are writing to complain, or ask for an extension, provide a reason.

Sincerely/Respectfully/Regards,

Your Name
Your Class
Your School <if you are writing someone outside of your school>

Most teachers have a preset signature block with their emails. Use that as an example.

Taking the time to write a teacher an email shows that you are interested in your learning. Taking the time to write a proper email demonstrated that you are invested in your learning. Every opportunity you have while your at school is an opportunity to learn something new, try something again, and master something known.