Unit 1: You have got mail

Activity 1: Pleased to meet you

Self-presentation

Non-verbal communication workshop

Worksheet

Activity 2: You have got mail

Formal and informal correspondance

In medias res

Formal correspondence running dictation 

Objective: Practice reading, listening, and writing skills, as well as comprehension and memory recall.

Setup:

1. Divide the class into groups: in turns, one student will be the *runner*, and another student will be the *writer*. The turns change clockwise.

2. Dictation texts are placed around the classroom (out of direct view from the groups' desks).

3. Each group will be assigned one of the four different texts to complete their task.

Instructions:

1. In turns, the *runners* will read a sentence or two of the text on the wall and then run back to the *writer* to dictate it as accurately as possible.

2. In turns, the *writers* will listen carefully and write down exactly what they hear.

3. The *runner* can return to the text as many times as needed to remember the text accurately.

4. The group continues this process until they have written down the entire text. The first group to finish gets a bonus point.

5. After finishing, groups check another group's work against the original text to see how accurately they completed the dictation.

6. There is one point for each correct sentence. And 0,5 points for each sentence with 2-3 mistakes.

7. The group with the most points wins.

Text 1 (Original)

 Dear Ms Ash,

I am writing in response to the advertisement I saw for your summer courses in “The European Woods” magazine. I am interested in doing one of your courses, and I would be grateful if you could provide some further information.

In the first place, it says in the advertisement that the courses are three weeks long. Would it be possible to do a four-week course? I would also like to know how much your courses cost exactly and whether there are any scholarships.

Furthermore, your advert mentions accommodation in student residences. Could you tell me if accommodation with host families would be an option too? If this were the case, would I be staying on my own with the host family or would other students be staying as well?

Finally, I have a question about the social programme. Would you mind sending me more details about it? I am very keen on cultural programmes and day trips, and I would like to know if there are any excursions to the surroundings and cultural activities such as book club gatherings or visits to the local theatre.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Yours sincerely,

Tom Rowan

 

 Text 2 (Version A)

 Dear Ms Blackwood,

I came across your advert for summer courses in the "Forest Times" journal and am very interested in applying. I would appreciate it if you could send me some more information about these courses.

Firstly, the advert mentions that each course runs for two weeks. Could you let me know if there is any possibility of extending the course to three weeks? Additionally, I would like to inquire about the exact fees for these courses and any available financial assistance.

The advert also states that accommodation is offered in student dormitories. Could you confirm if staying with a host family is another possible option? If so, would other students also be housed with the family, or would I be on my own?

Lastly, I am curious about the leisure activities provided. Would you kindly send me details? I am especially interested in guided nature hikes and any cultural events that may be organised, such as art exhibitions or historical tours.

Thank you in advance for your time.

Yours faithfully,

Sam Taylor

 Text 3 (Version B)

 Dear Ms Green,

I am reaching out regarding your summer forestry courses listed in the “Nature’s Network” publication. I am eager to learn more and would appreciate any additional details.

The advert mentions a two-week course duration. Is there an option to enrol in a longer course of three weeks? Could you also inform me of the course fees and any potential financial aid or discounts?

It appears you offer student residence accommodations. However, I was wondering if staying with a host family might be possible instead? If that’s the case, could you let me know whether I would be staying alone or with other students?

One last question regarding the social calendar: could you share some details about any organised excursions or cultural events? I am particularly interested in activities like photography workshops and local film screenings.

Thank you very much for your assistance.

Kind regards,

Alex Carter

 

Text 4 (Version C)

Dear Ms Oakley,

I am writing to inquire about your summer courses listed in “Woodlands Weekly.” I am very interested in applying and would be grateful for any additional information.

According to the advert, the course is three weeks long. Is there a chance of taking a shorter course, perhaps two weeks? I would also appreciate details regarding the course cost and if there are any grants or scholarships available.

It mentions that students are accommodated in dorms, but would it be possible to arrange a host family stay? If so, I would like to know if other students would be staying there or if I would be alone with the family.

Lastly, I am curious about the social events listed. Could you provide me with some specifics? I have a particular interest in outdoor activities and would love to know if there are any group hikes or museum visits scheduled.

Thank you for your time.

Yours sincerely,

Jordan Bansky

 

Wrap-up:

• Collaborative phrase book Doc
• Writing practice open (register to save progress)
• AI detector