Speech, Article and Email Writing: Class 8 Study Guide
The audience and purpose decide the tone and layout of a piece of writing.
A speech is written to be heard. It begins with a greeting (Respected Principal, teachers and dear friends), states the topic, develops two or three points with examples, and ends with a thank-you or a call to action. It uses direct address, rhetorical questions and shorter sentences.
An article has a catchy title, a byline (the writer's name), an engaging opening, well-organised paragraphs and a strong ending. A formal email has a clear subject line, a greeting, a brief body, a polite closing and the sender's name and contact details.
Comparing the formats
| Format | Opening | Body | Closing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speech | greeting and topic | 2 or 3 points with examples | thank you, call to action |
| Article | title, byline, hook | paragraphs with facts and views | a thought or recommendation |
| Formal email | subject line, Dear Sir/Madam | purpose, details, request | Yours faithfully, name |
Writing a speech
Topic: 'Why we should read more.' Start with a question: 'When did you last lose yourself in a book?' Give three points: reading builds vocabulary, reading builds imagination and reading builds calm. Use an anecdote or statistic. End: 'So let us pick up a book tonight. Thank you.' Practise aloud and watch your timing (about 120 words a minute).
Formal and warm.
In one line.
With examples.
Call to action.
Writing an article and an email
For an article on 'Plastic-free school', make the title catchy, the opening interesting (a surprising fact), the paragraphs short and the conclusion hopeful. For an email: subject line 'Request for library timing extension'; greeting 'Dear Madam'; body in three short paragraphs (reason, request, thanks); close with 'Yours sincerely, Name, Class 8B'. Keep the language polite and avoid text-speak.
Worked example and common mistakes
Example subject lines: 'Complaint about damaged textbook' is clear, while 'Hello' is not. Common mistakes: writing an essay instead of a speech, forgetting the byline in an article, using casual language in a formal email and not proofreading. Read your writing aloud before sending.
Check your understanding: model answers
1. With a subject line and a greeting such as 'Dear Sir/Madam'. 2. For example, a rhetorical question. 3. The writer's name printed under the title.
✨ Key Takeaways
- Know the audience and purpose.
- A speech uses direct address.
- An article needs a title and byline.
- A formal email needs a clear subject line.
💬 Questions for Discussion & Reflection
- How should a formal email begin?
- Name one device used in speeches.
- What is a byline?
Print lined paper for writing →