Grammar and Language Workbook

338 Grammar and Language Workbook, Grade 6

Copyright © by Glencoe/McGraw-Hill

Composition

Another common type of business letter is the letter of complaint. A letter of

complaint informs someone about a problem and usually requests some type of

action. In your letter state the problem and how it has affected you. Use

supporting details to explain the problem. End your letter by stating what you

want done. Be firm but polite. If you let your anger burst out, you are less likely

to get help in solving the problem.

Exercise 3 Read the following letter of complaint. List three weak points of the letter

below.

Dear Sir or Madam:

The other day I decided I finally needed a new daypack, so I went to three

different stores at the mall. Then I saw your daypacks and bought one. Your

daypacks are really crummy. I bought the daypack two weeks ago and the back

pocket is already coming off! I use the pocket to hold little things like my eraser

and pencil sharpener and house key. Yesterday my key fell out because of the

hole in the seam of the pocket! I shouldn’t have to mend a new pack. I demand

a full refund of my money!

The money or else...

Inez Garcia

1.The letter has an angry tone.

2.The letter is not brief and to the point.

3.The letter does not have an appropriate closing.

Exercise 4 Rewrite the letter of complaint above to make it more effective.

Letters should be concise and state the problem at the beginning of the letter. The tone should be firm

but polite. An acceptable business closing, such as “Sincerely,” should be used. A heading and an inside

address should be included.