EMAILS THAT SHINE: BETTER INTRODUCTION AND CLOSURE FOR SPM 1119/2

Zanurin Mohamad Safar
Sep 19
3 min read

Image – credit to https://chatgpt.com/c/68cd03af-d1a4-8332-9227-1871d55f2c22

Is it wrong to begin an SPM 1119/2 email with a greeting like “Hi, how are you? I hope you are fine”? Certainly not. However, this approach is rather traditional and predictable. Instead, I encourage my SPM 1119/2 candidates to begin by acknowledging the sender’s feelings after analysing the situation he or she is in. This strategy makes the response more thoughtful and engaging. It also gives candidates the chance to enrich the tone of their email, whether supportive, encouraging, sympathetic, or welcoming (depending on the situation).

Likewise, I advise them to avoid ending with a generic closing such as “That’s all from me. Bye.” A more effective closure should revisit the situation, offer help, or express hope, wishes, or feelings (whichever relevant). Whatever form the ending takes, it should always connect back to the sender’s situation. Let’s look at some examples below.

1. Example 1:

1.1 Situation: I just moved to my new school and I am not sure which sports club to choose.

1.2 Introduction: Hi Adam, I know how it feels to be in a new school. Don’t worry dear. I am always here to help you.

1.3 Closure: I hope you will make a wise decision dear. I am confident you will enjoy the club of your choice. Take care, bye.

2. Example 2:

2.1 Situation: My parents will celebrate their 30th wedding anniversary next month. I am not sure what to do to make their anniversary memorable.

2.2 Introduction: Hi Lisa, wow! I am so happy that your parents will celebrate their 30th anniversary! Relax dear, I will be more than willing to give some tips.

2.3 Closure: Do send my regards to your parents. I can’t wait to give them my special gift. Take care, bye.

3. Example 3:

5.1 Situation: I want to have a pet but my parents disagree. I am so frustrated.

3.1 Introduction: Hi Stephanie, I know getting a pet has been your dream. I feel you dear. You know you can always count on me, dear.

3.2 Closure: I will visit you next week. Please be patient as I am confident, things will change. Take care, bye.

4. Example 4:

4.1 Situation: I am nervous about my upcoming public speaking competition. How should I prepare myself well?

4.2 Introduction: Hi Daniel, I understand how nerve-wracking competitions can be. Don’t stress too much. I’ll share some useful tips to boost your confidence.

4.3 Closure: All the best Daniel for your competition! I will surely be there to support you. Take care, bye!

5. Example 5:

5.1 Situation: I just lost my wallet on the way home from school. My parents will be mad at me.

5.2 Introduction: Hi Farah, oh no! I know losing a wallet can be really upsetting. Stay calm, dear. You have got me beside you, always.

5.3 Closure: Please be more careful in future, dear. I really hope my suggestions are helpful to you.

For practices, teachers can give these situations to their SPM 1119/2 candidates and let them explore the options of writing an introduction and a closure based on each of the situations given.

Practices: The Situations

1. My cousin from overseas is coming to Malaysia, and I don’t know where to take him.

2. I want to improve my English, but I don’t know where to start.

3. I am stressed because my exams are just around the corner.

4. My best friend is moving to another city, and I feel so sad.

5. I want to buy a gift for my teacher but I don’t know what to choose.

6. I have been chosen as the class monitor, but I don’t know what to do.

7. I want to learn how to cook but I have no idea where to begin.

8. My neighbour’s dog barks all night, and I can’t sleep.

9. I want to save money to buy a new bicycle, but I always end up spending.

10. My younger brother keeps disturbing me while I’m studying.

11. I am worried about my weight and want to stay healthy.