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Grade 9 Starter Lesson: Letter to Your Future Self

By Newsela Staff
Last updated 2 months ago
8 Questions
Note from the author:
In this lesson, you will learn about the qualities of an effective letter and write a letter of your own.

Essential Question: What makes a strong letter?
In this lesson, you will learn about the qualities of an effective letter and write a letter of your own.

Essential Question: What makes a strong letter?
Required
1.

If you could go back in time, what advice would you give yourself at the beginning of middle school? Why?

Required
2.

Think ahead to the end of high school-- what questions would you like to ask that version of yourself? Write at least 3 questions for your future self.

Required
4.

Match each component of the letter to the appropriate description.

Informs the recipient of when the letter was written
Establishes the purpose of the letter
Contains relevant details, descriptions, and/or questions for the recipient
Includes a call to action for the recipient of the letter
Sometimes includes "Dear" or "To Whom It May Concern"
Often includes "Sincerely," or "Regards," as well as the sender's name and signature
Required
5.
Introductory Paragraph- Complete the following sentence:
The purpose of writing this letter to my future self is to _______ , _______ , and _______ .
Required
6.

Draft your Body Paragraph(s).

In the body of your letter, be sure to:
  • introduce relevant details about who you are now
  • ask your future self questions
  • share hopes and dreams for your future self

Required
7.

Draft your Closing Paragraph.

In this paragraph, be sure to:
  • include calls to action for your future self

Required
8.

Your final letter should include:
  • Date
  • Greeting
  • Introductory paragraph
  • Body paragraph(s)
  • Closing paragraph
  • Closing
  • Your name + signature