(For some reason the address and date don’t sit where they should in this example on my WordPress blog. So imagine that they’re there please- in spirit! The letter is not a particular reflection of my own views. I wrote it as if in an ‘exam’ and tried to show certain persuasive techniques, as well as demonstrating a clear acknowledgement of ‘Tom’s’ choice of chemistry as a ‘shortage’ teaching subject. I also attempted to establish my ‘authority’ on the question of teaching as a year 11 student. The ‘tone’ is informal though I am trying to persuade my reader using certain techniques. This may render the letter a ‘hybrid’ cross over – being informally formal! )
Dear Tom,
Many thanks for your postcard from Barcelona! I reread the card three times as I was so surprised about your career choice. Obviously, I respect your decision to train as a Chemistry teacher in September, but as your youngest cousin (who is still in school!) I did feel compelled to reply to your news.
All our family know your love of Chemistry Tom. In fact one of my earliest memories is of one of your ‘experiments’ in Uncle Jake’s kitchen. I think you were pleased with the purple explosion, but I do remember there were others who seemed less thrilled! I would hate you to lose your passion for Chemistry and I am afraid becoming a secondary school teacher may destroy every particle of your enthusiasm by your first Xmas. I joke NOT!
I appreciate that as a trainee Chemistry teacher you would be offered a ‘welcome package’. Chemistry is a shortage subject and my school always seems to be relying on supply teachers for science. Naturally, the welcome package may seem enticing-particularly if you are a bit hard up at the moment. But do consider the consequences Tom. The package is nothing short of danger money-blood money no less! It is like being enlisted as mercenary soldier in a war torn country, where there is very little chance of peace!
I am in year 11 now, so my experience of school is still ongoing. In fact, truth be told, I am writing to you as an insider or ‘mole’ from the danger zone! Please reconsider your decision. Think about your sanity Tom. Think about your health. Think about your freedom. Travel the world. Go to see Aunt Emily in Australia. Do postgraduate study perhaps-you’ve always loved research!
Last year I had a wonderful science teacher. This year he is off on long term sick leave. Mr Soames now looks like a pensioner and he’s only 28! Verbal abuse, endless bureaucracy and the mind numbing grind of daily meetings ate away at his enthusiasm for Chemistry. My year all think he’s turned into broken man. He looks like he’s escaped from a sanatorium! Don’t let that happen to you Tom.
I know you are tough and stoical Tom, but surely your talents will flourish more happily, in environments where your daily diet is not one of disillusion and disappointment? Find a happier challenge. Don’t sell your soul for the short term solutions of a ‘welcome pack’!
Every day I rush off to lessons and everyday my friends and I remark upon the grey resignation on the faces of so many teachers. Please keep your sanity Tom and avoid the heavy ‘mind forg’d manacles’ of teaching- see I did listen in English!
Very best and see you at the next family wedding,
Your concerned younger cousin Sam!
