Starter quiz
- 'A written, typed or printed communication, sent in an envelope by post or messenger' is the definition of which word beginning with 'l'?
- 'letter' ✓
- 'Done in accordance with convention or etiquette; suitable for something official' is the definition of which word beginning with 'f'?
- 'formal' ✓
- In a formal letter, if you know the recipient's name is Ian Smith then which of the following salutations could you use?
- Dear Sir
- Dear Mr. Smith ✓
- Dear Sir or Madam
- Dear Ian Smith ✓
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- In a formal letter, if you have used the name of the recipient as the salutation then you should which of the following as a sign off?
- Kinds regards
- Best wishes
- Yours sincerely ✓
- Yours faithfully
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- 'Convince (someone) to do something through reasoning or argument' is the definition of which word beginning with 'p'?
- 'persuade' ✓
- In a formal letter, which of the following goes in the top right-hand corner of the letter?
- recipient's address
- salutation
- sender's address ✓
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Exit quiz
- 'Verbs that indicate likelihood, ability, permission or obligation' are the definition of ______ verbs.
- 'modal' ✓
- Match the modal verb with the level of modality.
- might⇔low modality ✓
- should⇔medium modality ✓
- must⇔high modality ✓
- Arguably, words with high modality convey a sense of __________ in your writing.
- uncertainty
- confidence ✓
- neutrality
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- 'Having to do something, because you are forced to or feel it is necessary' is the definition of which of the following?
- subjective
- voluntary
- compelled ✓
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- Arguably, words with ______ modality are the most effective for persuasive writing.
- 'high' ✓
- 'An act or course of action to which a person is morally or legally bound; a duty or commitment' is the definition of which word beginning with 'o'?
- 'obligation' ✓
Worksheet
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Lesson Details
Key learning points
- Modal verbs are verbs that indicate likelihood, ability, permission or obligation.
- We might sort modal verbs into categories of low, medium and high modality.
- Words with low modality may convey a sense of uncertainty to your writing.
- Words with high modality are considered the most persuasive since they convey confidence and obligation.
Common misconception
It is the content of your argument that makes it persuasive rather than the construction.
The way you construct your argument directly impacts how persuasive it is to the reader.
Keywords
Modal verb - verbs that indicate likelihood, ability, permission or obligation
Persuade - convince (someone) to do something through reasoning or argument
Compelled - having to do something, because you are forced to or feel it is necessary
Obligation - an act or course of action to which a person is morally or legally bound; a duty or commitment
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