Introduction

As educators, it is essential to teach our high school students the importance of effectively communicating with teachers through email. Emailing is a fast and common way to stay in touch with teachers, but it is crucial to understand the difference between informal texting and formal emailing. Learning to write proper emails to teachers and adults is an important skill that will prepare students for future success and help them make a good impression.

No-Prep Activity

Here is a simple no-prep activity to help students practice proper email writing skills:

1. Divide the students into pairs. Each pair will be assigned a specific scenario, such as asking for clarification on an assignment, requesting an extension, or discussing a grade.
2. Students should take turns writing an email to their “teacher” (the other student in the pair) based on the assigned scenario.
3. After writing the email, students should exchange their drafts and provide feedback on their partner’s email. They should focus on aspects such as tone, clarity, and proper formatting.
4. Finally, have the students revise their emails based on the feedback received and share their final drafts with the class. This will help students learn from each other’s mistakes and successes.

Discussion Questions

1. Why is it essential to maintain a polite and formal tone when emailing teachers and adults?
2. What are some common mistakes students make when emailing teachers, and how can they be avoided?
3. How can proper email communication skills benefit students in their future academic and professional lives?
4. What are some strategies to ensure that an email is clear and easy to understand?
5. How can students effectively communicate their needs and concerns through email while maintaining respect and professionalism?

Related Skills

Beyond effective email communication, there are other relevant skills that students can benefit from, such as:

• Active listening: Ensuring that students understand what is being communicated to them and are able to respond appropriately.
• Conflict resolution: Teaching students how to address disagreements and misunderstandings in a respectful and productive manner.
• Time management: Helping students prioritize their tasks and manage their time efficiently.
• Collaboration: Encouraging students to work together and support each other in achieving their goals.

Next Steps

Teaching proper email communication is an essential aspect of preparing high school students for future success. To further enhance your students’ social-emotional learning, be sure to check out the free sample materials available on Everyday Speech. These resources will provide valuable insights and activities to help your students develop the necessary skills for effective communication and collaboration.