Unit 2 section 4: Writing a note

This is the fourth part in the series with Laura. In this unit, you will develop your note writing skills. You will practise rewriting sentences, identify paragraphs and then write your own note.

If you want to find out a bit more about being self-employed in the UK, go to unit 1 ‘An introduction to self-employment.’ Please read ‘Before you listen!’ first.

Instructions and downloads

You can download a paper version of these activities and the answers.

Printable Version

Answers

Task 1 - rearrange a text message

When Laura is at her cleaning job, she gets a text from her friend, Magda. Magda asks her what she is doing? Laura replies to Magda. Please rearrange the words into the correct order.

Remember! Texts are written quickly and some words are missing. This is OK for a text. Important words are used so that the message is quick to write and easy to understand.

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Task 2 - paragraphs

Paragraphs

A paragraph is a group of sentences about the same idea. you start a new paragraph when you want to talk about a new idea. In this activity, read the note and identify the start of each new paragraph (there are five paragraphs).

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Task 3 - planning and writing a note

Laura has problems with the jet washer and runs out of time and cannot finish cleaning the patio. Write a note (as Laura) to her clients, telling them what the problem is. Apologise for not being able to finish the work.

You may find a mind map (worksheet 2l) useful for planning your note. Don’t write in sentences or worry about grammar or spelling. Do write your ideas and useful words.

When you have finished the plan, decide the order that you are going to write the note in and put a number next to each idea.

You could post your email on the NEXUS ESOL website or you could download the paper version of the activities in this section.

Discussion

You now know Laura’s story so far. Since completing the activities for the British Council, we have asked Laura for her comments. Please see what she says below.

You can also give your opinions and chat to people about self employment in the UK.

How do you feel about self-employment?

Perhaps you are planning to become self-employed?

We look forward to your comments!

Laura's comments:

I am very happy with my jobs. I like to be self-employed. I got my first job from my ESOL teacher. She looked for a cleaner and I say ‘I can do it!’ Then my other jobs from recommendations. This was good but it was slow. If I knew about the websites with jobs for self-employed domestic cleaners, maybe I can have more jobs more quickly. I did not know that you can find self-employed jobs on the internet. But I am OK. I have lots of work. I want to be a business and employ cleaners. But not now. Maybe later.

Thank you.

Laura.