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GCSEEnglish LanguageAQARevision NotesPaper 2Question 5How to Write a Letter for GCSE

How to Write a Letter for GCSE (AQA GCSE English Language) : Revision Note

Nick Redgrove

Written by: Nick Redgrove

Reviewed by: Deb Orrock

Updated on

Writing a letter is a common task which could appear in Paper 2, Section B of your AQA GCSE English Language exam. It is therefore important that you understand both how to structure your letter and how to shape your argument effectively.

The following guide to writing a letter in your AQA English Language GCSE exam includes:

  • Conventions of a formal letter

  • Structuring your letter

  • Letter sample questions

Conventions of a formal letter

  • A formal letter is typically written to someone in a position of responsibility, for example a headteacher, a local MP, or a business leader

  • You will usually be giving your opinion on a topic, but it might also be to inform, advise, argue or persuade

  • To show the examiner that you understand how to write a formal letter, include the key conventions, but be careful not to spend too much time on its format

  • A few simple features will show you know the form. For example:

    • The date

    • A correct salutation (greeting)

    • An appropriate sign-off

Formal letter

In a formal letter you should:

  • Include a date

  • Use the correct salutation (greeting):

    • If you do not know the recipient’s name: use “Dear Sir/Madam”

    • If responding to a newspaper article: use “Dear Editor”

  • Use the appropriate sign-off:

    • If you do not know their name: sign off with “Yours faithfully,”

    • If you are given a name: sign off with “Yours sincerely,”

  • Introduce your letter clearly:

    • State what you are writing about, why, and what your viewpoint is

    • Avoid using “I am writing because...” – instead, match your wording to the task

    • For example: “I am writing to express my views on…”

  • Organise your writing into logical paragraphs with clear, connected ideas

  • Use topic sentences at the start of each paragraph to guide the reader

  • Keep to one argument or point per paragraph — do not mix contrasting ideas within a paragraph

Examiner Tips and Tricks

Always keep your audience in mind when you write.


Tailor your tone, content and language to suit the person you are writing to. Refer to them directly, consider their specific concerns and use techniques that will specifically convince them.

Structuring your letter

A formal letter layout should follow this general structure:

Guide on structuring a formal letter, including date, salutation, introduction, paragraphs with arguments, conclusion, and sign-off tips.
GCSE English letter layout

Note that it is not necessary to include addresses in a letter written in exam conditions. This just wastes time and does not contribute to your marks.

Once you are confident about the format, it is time to focus on your content:

  • For AQA Paper 2, Question 5, you will need to express your viewpoint clearly and convincingly

  • The task will present you with a statement or issue

  • You can choose to agree, disagree or consider both sides, as long as your argument is well thought-out and clearly communicated

Writing an effective letter

  • Plan your points:

    • Quickly jot down your key ideas by using a mind map or bullet points

    • Number your points in the order you want to present them

  • Paragraph structure:

    • Your letter should contain 3–4 well-developed main paragraphs

    • Do not worry about making each paragraph the same length — strong responses often vary paragraph length for impact

    • Focus on developing a different point or idea in each paragraph

Paragraph structure for a letter

Introduction

  • Briefly explain what the letter is about and state your overall opinion

  • Address your reader directly to engage them

  • Use inclusive pronouns like “you” or “we” to create a connection

Paragraph 1

  • Begin with a strong topic sentence

  • Include a fact or “expert” opinion (can be invented) to support your point:

    • This will strengthen your argument

Paragraph 2

  • Use connectives and another topic sentence

  • Add a personal anecdote or specific example to make your point relatable

Paragraph 3

  • Introduce another topic sentence and a counter-argument (if relevant) 

  • Then explain why that view is flawed or less convincing:

    • This shows an awareness of opposing views

Paragraph 4

  • Deliver a final, impactful point

  • Use further evidence,  such as a statistic, a quote, or a testimonial

  • Ensure this paragraph strongly supports your stance

Conclusion 

  • End with a clear call to action, solution, or emotional appeal

  • Using a rhetorical question or a triplet can be very effective

Examiner Tips and Tricks

Do not worry about how much you know about the topic. The examiner is not testing your knowledge of specific facts, but assessing how clearly and effectively you can present your argument. 

A well-argued response with a clear introduction, developed points and a strong conclusion will earn more marks than one filled with facts but poorly organised content.

Letter sample questions

Here are some examples of the type of question you might be asked:

Flowchart of letter writing prompts on topics like youth stereotypes, celebrity pay, exam assessment, and creative subjects in education.
Letter sample questions

Key features the examiner Is looking for

  • Correct layout and formatting:

    • Include the date

    • Use the appropriate salutation (greeting)

    • End with the correct sign-off

  • Clear and engaging introduction:

    • Grab the reader’s attention straight away

    • Make it clear why you are writing, what the issue is and where you stand

  • Well organised argument:

    • Begin each paragraph with a clear topic sentence

  • Link your ideas fluently throughout

  • Use a variety of persuasive devices to strengthen your argument

  • Give a counter-argument to show balance and knowledge

  • Powerful conclusion:

    • Bring your points together effectively

    • Leave your reader with a strong final message that reinforces your opinion

Please see our GCSE Letter: Model Answer revision note page for an example of a full-mark AQA GCSE letter.

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    Author
    Reviewer
    Nick Redgrove

    Author: Nick Redgrove

    Expertise: English Senior Content Creator

    Nick is a graduate of the University of Cambridge and King’s College London. He started his career in journalism and publishing, working as an editor on a political magazine and a number of books, before training as an English teacher. After nearly 10 years working in London schools, where he held leadership positions in English departments and within a Sixth Form, he moved on to become an examiner and education consultant. With more than a decade of experience as a tutor, Nick specialises in English, but has also taught Politics, Classical Civilisation and Religious Studies.

    Deb Orrock

    Reviewer: Deb Orrock

    Expertise: English Content Creator

    Deb is a graduate of Lancaster University and The University of Wolverhampton. After some time travelling and a successful career in the travel industry, she re-trained in education, specialising in literacy. She has over 16 years’ experience of working in education, teaching English Literature, English Language, Functional Skills English, ESOL and on Access to HE courses. She has also held curriculum and quality manager roles, and worked with organisations on embedding literacy and numeracy into vocational curriculums. She most recently managed a post-16 English curriculum as well as writing educational content and resources.