Chapter 3: Post-Secondary Learning
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Email has become one of the most common ways we communicate with others. This makes it even more important to do it well. Have you ever sent an email or text that was completely misunderstood? When we write, we lose the non-linguistic elements of communication. Things like body language, tone of voice, and expression are all lost in writing. It is very important to keep that in mind when writing.
Activity: Writing an Email to a Professor
In the text box write an email to a professor asking a question about an upcoming assignment. Then compare your email to the sample.
SAMPLE Extension Request Email Template:
Hello [insert professor’s name],
I am writing to request an extension on [add name of assignment] assignment. As you may recall, I receive extensions as part of my accommodation plan. Can I please have an additional [add number of days] days to complete [add name of assignment]? I have copied my accessibility counsellor on this message in case you have any questions regarding my accommodations.
Thank you,
Your name
Your student number
Your course code and section code
What do you notice about the sample? What did you forget in your email?
List: Academic Email Checklist
Here is a list of things to remember when sending an email:
- used my school-issued ID
- spelled the email address correctly
- concise and applicable subject
- greeting (hello, hi, etc.)
- used the person’s name
- explained how I know them
- student number
- polite and professional
- referred to any attachments
- included any attachments
- closing (bests, thanks, etc.)
- my first and last name
- spelling and grammar check
Another good rule to follow is to allow for 24 hours before you send an email if you are feeling mad, frustrated, sad, disappointed, etc. Quite often, after a student receives a poor grade, the first thing they want to do is shoot off a “what are you thinking?” email to their prof. This isn’t going to help anyone. Wait 24 hours and then compose a more appropriate message.
You will be expected to check your school email every day to ensure you are up to date on announcements, changes to your schedule, working within groups, aware of holidays and school events, etc. Most school-issued addresses can be synced to your mobile device, which may make it easier to check them.
Ensure you respond to emails within 24-48 hours. Treat your emails as though this is your job, and be sure to reply to any emails that require a response in a timely fashion. Avoid replying when you don’t have the time to adequately compose an appropriate message.
