Official letter writing

APPLICATION FOR THE POST OF A PROOF READER.
In response to your advertisement in the Daily Sun Newspaper of 4^th August, 2016, I wish to apply for the post of a Proof Reader in your publishing company.
42
I hold a B.A (Hons.) degree in English Language (Second Class Upper Division) of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. While in the University, I edited the students’ departmental magazine, The Muse, and also did my Industrial attachment with The Guardian Newspapers, Lagos.
If I am given the opportunity, I shall do my best to contribute in maintaining the high standard and reputation which your newspaper has established. Attached are photocopies of my credentials and curriculum vitae for your perusal and consideration.
I look forward to positive consideration of my application.
Yours faithfully, (signature) Dennis Ibe.
4.2.1 SEMI-FORMAL LETTER
The weight of language of a semi-formal letter gravitates between the formal letter and the informal. While familiarity and condescending tones (as in informal letter) are absent, mood control, politeness, courtesy, and deference to the recipient (as in formal letter) are expected. A letter on personal subjects to an uncle, your former school principal, your lecturer, an individual of good standing in your community are examples of semi-formal letter.
43
4.2.2 FEATURES OF A SEMI-FORMAL LETTER.

1. 
   The writer’s address at the right hand corner.
   
2. 
   The date at the end of the writers address.
   
3. 
   Salutation.
   
4. 
   The body.
   
5. 
   The Conclusion.
   
6. 
   The complimentary Close.
   

A Sample of a Semi-formal Letter
Department of English Language, Faculty of Arts,
University of Benin,
P.M.B 1234,
Benin, Edo State.
4^th April, 2
Dear Mr. Abu,
My name is Ngozika Eze, the class prefect you personally appointed in our final year in 2004. I gained admission into the University of Benin where I am currently pursuing a degree course in English Language.
I write this letter to express my profound gratitude for the counseling which we received from you, which also contributed to my securing university admission immediately after our secondary school education. I am also aware that you would be fascinated by my choice of a course which you exhibited so much passion in teaching. You really motivated us, and I remain indebted to you for all these. Kindly relay my appreciation to other
44
teachers in our great school. I eagerly look forward to a day I would visit the school. May you remain blessed.
Thanks.
Yours sincerely, Ngozi Eze
Note that this letter has both the tone and language features of a formal letter. However, it cannot be said to be formal because it has only one address (the writer’s address), there is no subject heading, and no provision for signature.