Language Arts, Writing, Writing Process

Grade 5- 8

Objective

Students learn about writing and sending e-mail.

Directions

Faster Than the Pony Express:
Discuss e-mail with students.
If they own computers, chances are they have either sent or received e-mail.
Ask them, what's so special about e-mail? It's fast and convenient. E-mail messages are received instantly; and depending on the computer used, you can also send and receive pictures and voice messages with your mail. Traditional snail mail simply can't compare to the speed of the computer.
Discuss with students that writing a letter that is to be sent by e-mail is a little different than writing a letter that is to be sent through the postal service. One of the main differences is that all e-mailed letters are typed. Another obvious difference is there is no stamp or envelope needed.
There are a few rules you need to follow when sending and receiving e-mail.

• Do not write in all capital letters. IT LOOKS LIKE YOU ARE YELLING WHEN YOU DO THIS!
• Do include a salutation. It makes the letter more personal.
• Do use correct capitalization and punctuation.
• Do check your spelling.
• Do not say anything you might regret. Once you hit the send button, your e-mail has been electronically mailed.
• Do reply promptly to e-mail that requires a response from you.

E-mail does not require a written signature. Since the letter is not printed on paper, a signature is not required. You can, of course, type your name at the end of the letter if you wish. Also, you do not need to include the date. Mail that is sent via the computer automatically includes the date.
If you are planning to send an e-mail, the screen will show a display that looks similar to this:

Send To:
Subject:

The e-mail address of the person who is receiving the letter should be placed in the "send to" box. You do not have to fill in the "subject" box, but it is a good idea to put some type of note to let the reader know what the letter will be about. For example, if you are writing to tell the person about your dog's trip to the veterinarian, you might write "Duncan's checkup."
Distribute the activity sheet and have students complete the activity.

Resources

• Sending E-mail activity sheet
• pencils or pens