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A cover letter.
Look at the cover letter and do the exercises to improve your writing skills.
Instructions
Do the preparation exercise first. Then read the text and do the other exercises.
Preparation
Dear Sir or Madam,
I am writing to you to express interest in the voluntary work placement at your animal sanctuary which I saw advertised on your website.
I am eighteen years old and in my final year at secondary school, due to sit my A levels next summer. I am planning on taking a degree in veterinary science at university and have received two conditional offers. As you will see from my CV, I have always shown an interest in working with animals and have relevant experience from voluntary work which I carried out at a local dogs' home. In this position I had sole responsibility for taking care of some dogs' daily needs, such as feeding, cleaning and exercise. In addition to this, I regularly spend time on my uncle's farm throughout the year and usually help him take care of the animals. This hands-on experience has reinforced my decision to seek a career working with animals. Both the dogs' home and my uncle would be willing to provide references.
I am hard-working, punctual and willing to help out with any kind of job at the sanctuary. My decision to undertake a degree in veterinary science confirms my interest in and commitment to the field. I am certain that experience working at your animal sanctuary will provide an invaluable insight into working with animals and a unique opportunity to acquire a range of skills and expertise.
I hope I have shown that I am an ideal candidate for this position and please find attached my CV.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Yours faithfully,
Emily Jones
Top Tips for writing
Begin and end the letter appropriately.
Beginning: Dear Sir or Madam with no name – Closing: Yours faithfully Beginning: Dear Mr / Mrs / Ms + surname – Closing: Yours sincerely
Give a clear reason for writing.
I am writing with regard to … / to enquire about … / to apply for … / to express interest in ...
Use linking words to join similar ideas into paragraphs.
In addition to this, ...
Include a summary comment near the end of your letter.
I hope you will find this information useful. I would be very grateful for your assistance in this matter.
Close your letter with a set phrase.
Check your understanding: true, false or not given
Check your writing: gap fill, check your writing: multiple selection, worksheets and downloads.
Do students at your school do work experience? What company or organisation would you like to do work experience in? What do you think are the main advantages of work experience?
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Topic: Cover Letter Vocabulary 1
