Governor's Institute for Career Education and Work
Writing a Personal Thank You Letter

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Governor’s Institute for Career Education and Work Activity

by Christine Vicars, Angeline Thall and Katherine Taylor

Title

Writing a Personal Thank You Letter
Standards Addressed Types of Writing
  • 4.3 B Write informational pieces (e.g., letters)

Quality of Writing
  • 1.5.3 A Write a sharp, distinct focus identifying topic, task and audience.
  • 1.5.3 C Write with controlled organization.
  • 1.5.3 E Revise writing to improve detail and order.
  • 1.5.3 F Edit writing using the conventions of language.
  • RWSL 1.5 A F
Brief Overview Students will be able to identify reasons for writing and the correct format of a personal thank you letter.
Grade Level 3rd
Content Area(s) Language Arts
Other standards supported ASCA, PSCA, NCDG
Prep Time 30 minutes
Implementation Time Two, 30 minute sessions
Learning Objectives Students will be able to identify the components of a personal thank you letter.
Materials Needed Paper, pencils, envelopes, stamps
Detailed Activity Steps
  1. Explain parts of a personal thank you letter: heading, greeting, body, complimentary closing, and signature.
  2. Students asked to brainstorm contents of each part of a personal thank you letter.
  3. Using student input, teacher will model correct format on the chalkboard.
  4. Student will write a personal thank you letter.
  5. Student will peer evaluate letters.
  6. Student will rewrite the letter using correct format and grammar.
  7. Each student will mail his or her letter.
  8. Spend a few minutes discussing the postal service.
Theory basis Super’s Theory
Evaluation/Assessment Rubric for personal letter
Comments This activity may be used following a visit to an area business.
Enhancement Activities Have students visit local hospital to observe the different medical careers. After this visitation, students will write a thank you letter to the hospital staff.
Adaptation for at risk kids
  1. Have at risk student dictate letter to the teacher.
  2. The teacher will write the letter purposely incorporating three mistakes.
  3. Teacher will have student identify the errors using a highlighter.
Resources
  1. American Girls How to Books
  2. Third grade language arts curriculum

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