From a Former Student:

Some Reasons You May Need to Email

• Making up a missed assessment
• Request Tutoring
• Ask a question about grade/assignment
• Notify teacher of absence
• Issue with submitting an assignment (Note: if you are unable to submit an assignment to the correct place; you MUST attach the assignment to the email in order for it to be considered on time)

Parts of an Email

1. Type in your recipient’s email address

Ensure you type in your recipient’s email address correctly. Verify spelling and domain to ensure it goes to the right place.

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*Pro-Tip: You can find your teachers’ email addresses on their class syllabus, on CTLS, or by going to the Harrison High School website.

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2. Craft a Subject Line

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A subject line conveys the email’s topic or main action. It also helps your recipients prioritize and locate the email later.

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• Use specific language (e.g. “Vocabulary Quiz Make-Up” or “After-School Tutoring Request”).
• Avoid vague terms like “Important” or “HELP”

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3. Greeting/Salutation

Use Formal Titles:

• Examples: “Dear Dr. Smith,” “Hello Ms. Johnson.” Use titles and last names unless invited to use first names.

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When to Use First Names:

• If you have an established rapport or are closer friends with the person

4. The Body of the Email

1. State Purpose:

• Clarity: Clearly outline the reason for your email upfront (e.g., “I am writing to request a meeting regarding...”).
• Context: Provide any necessary background information.
• Action Items: Specify if there are any actions you want the recipient to take or specific information you need.

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5. Closing/Signature

Use Formal Closings:

• Examples: “Best regards,” “Sincerely,” “Thank you.” Match the tone of the email.

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Communication Protocols: REMEMBER!

• Begin with a greeting: Hi Dr. McCarter,
• Be specific about your purpose in writing.
• Use appropriate grammar and punctuation.
• SIGN YOUR EMAIL (this is IMPORTANT!). Please use first AND last name.
• The greeting, closing, and signature should be on their own lines.

Subject

Blank line

Clear Message

Greeting

Closing

First AND Last Name

Blank line

Common Email Mistakes to Avoid

• Overly Long Emails:
• Keep your emails brief and focused. If you find yourself writing a very long email, it’s best to just request a meeting.

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• Unprofessional Language:
• Avoid Slang: Use formal language appropriate to the context.
• Be Polite: Even when making requests or providing feedback.

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• Unclear or Inappropriate Email Addresses:
• Use your institutional or professional email address whenever possible.

Final Reminders

• Check Your Email Regularly:
• Aim to check your email at least once a day, especially during weekdays.

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• It is standard to reply to emails in about 24-48 Hours:
• If you send an email the night before, your teacher may not have time to reply before seeing you in class the next day.
• Be patient, and we will get back to you. ☺

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Email and Daily Procedure

1. First, review the Guidelines for British Lit presentation (Guidelines for British Lit.pptx).

2. Following the email guidelines presented in the presentation, send me an email detailing what you should do each day at the beginning of class.

3. Then (also in the email), tell me what you should do (and where you should look) if you are absent from class.

Make sure your email is formatted according to the guidelines and includes BOTH pieces of information.

You do NOT need to submit this assignment anywhere other than the email. You should send this email by 11:59 PM today.