Letter Writing (LA) MCQs Quiz | Class 10

This quiz is designed for **Class X** students, focusing on the **TAMANG (Code 133)** subject, specifically from **SECTION D: Writing**. The topic is **Letter Writing (LA)**, which is a significant component covering various letter types, carries **5 marks**, and typically offers **choice in topics** within the **8 periods** allocated for this section. Test your knowledge of letter writing formats and principles. Submit your answers at the end and download a PDF of your results.

Mastering Letter Writing: A Comprehensive Guide

Letter writing is an essential skill that serves various purposes, from formal communication in professional settings to personal exchanges with friends and family. For Class X students studying Tamang (Code 133), particularly in SECTION D: Writing, mastering letter writing is crucial as it carries 5 marks and often includes choices in topics, making it a valuable section to score well in.

Key Aspects of Letter Writing for Exams

To excel in the letter writing section, keep the following points in mind:

  • Understand the Purpose: Identify whether the letter needs to be formal or informal, as this dictates the tone, language, and format.
  • Adhere to Format: Strict adherence to the prescribed format (sender’s address, date, receiver’s address, salutation, subject, body, complimentary close, signature) is paramount for formal letters. Informal letters have a more relaxed structure but still follow general conventions.
  • Clarity and Conciseness: Your message should be clear, to the point, and easy to understand. Avoid unnecessary jargon or overly complex sentences.
  • Grammar and Spelling: Flawless grammar, correct spelling, and appropriate punctuation are critical for conveying professionalism and clarity. Errors can lead to loss of marks.
  • Content Relevance: Ensure the content directly addresses the prompt. Stay on topic and provide all necessary information without extraneous details.
  • Word Limit: Be mindful of any specified word limits. Writing too little may make the content insufficient, while writing too much can dilute the message and lead to deductions.

Types of Letters

Broadly, letters are categorized into two main types:

  1. Formal Letters: These are official letters used for professional or public communication. Examples include letters to the editor, principal, business letters, job applications, complaint letters, and letters of inquiry. They maintain a serious and respectful tone.
  2. Informal Letters: These are personal letters written to friends, family members, or close acquaintances. They feature a friendly, conversational tone and are less rigid in their format.

Formal Letter Format at a Glance

A typical formal letter follows a structured format to ensure all necessary information is presented clearly:

Element Placement Details
Sender’s Address Top Left Your full address, typically 3 lines.
Date Below Sender’s Address e.g., July 20, 2024 or 20 July, 2024.
Receiver’s Address Below Date Designation/Name, Organization Name, Full Address.
Salutation Below Receiver’s Address Sir/Madam, Dear Mr./Ms. [Last Name].
Subject Below Salutation A concise, clear statement of the letter’s purpose, often underlined.
Body Main Content Usually 3-5 paragraphs: Introduction (purpose), Details (main message), Conclusion (desired action/summary).
Complimentary Close Below Body Yours faithfully (if recipient is unknown), Yours sincerely (if recipient is known).
Signature Below Close Your handwritten signature.
Name (Block Letters) Below Signature Your full name in capital letters.

Scoring Tips for 5-Mark Letter Writing Questions

Examiners typically assess letter writing based on several criteria:

  • Format (2 Marks): Correct layout, placement of addresses, date, salutation, subject, and closing.
  • Content and Ideas (2 Marks): Relevance to the topic, logical flow of ideas, inclusion of necessary details, and impact of the message.
  • Grammar and Expression (1 Mark): Accuracy in grammar, spelling, punctuation, appropriate vocabulary, and sentence structure.

Quick Revision Checklist

  • Sender’s Address -> Date -> Receiver’s Address -> Salutation -> Subject -> Body -> Complimentary Close -> Signature -> Name.
  • Formal letters demand an official tone and structured format.
  • Informal letters allow a personal tone and more flexible structure.
  • A clear subject line is vital for formal letters.
  • Use “Yours faithfully” when you don’t know the recipient’s name, “Yours sincerely” when you do.
  • Always proofread for clarity, conciseness, and correctness before finalizing.

Practice Questions

To further enhance your letter writing skills, try practicing these questions:

  1. Write a letter to the editor of a local newspaper expressing your concern about the increasing problem of plastic waste in your locality and suggest possible solutions.
  2. Imagine you are the cultural secretary of your school. Write a letter to the Principal seeking permission to organize an inter-school cultural festival.
  3. You have recently returned from a summer camp. Write a letter to your younger cousin describing your experiences and encouraging them to join such camps in the future.
  4. Write a letter to the manager of a bank requesting a new chequebook, stating your account number and reason for the request.
  5. You bought a new electronic gadget online, but it arrived damaged. Write a complaint letter to the customer service department of the e-commerce website, requesting a replacement or refund.