Can-Do Task: The Same Message, Three Registers

Task: write the same message in three different registers for three different audiences.

Notice

  • Example message: You need to tell someone you will be late to a meeting.
  • Formal (to a client): I regret to inform you that I will be delayed by approximately fifteen minutes.
  • Neutral (to a colleague): Sorry, I’m going to be about 15 minutes late.
  • Informal (to a friend): Running late, be there in 15!

Rule

Your task: Choose one everyday message (e.g. cancelling plans, asking for help, giving feedback) and write it three times: once formally, once neutrally, and once informally, adjusting vocabulary, structure, and directness each time.

Practice

  1. Planning line: what message will you write in three registers?
    Answer: Personal answer.
  2. Draft the formal version.
    Answer: Personal answer.

Connect

Explore more register-shifting examples before completing your task.

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CEFR: Writing and Speaking — select a style appropriate to the reader or listener in mind.

Azizul Hakim
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