1. Essay on 'Congratulatory and Inquiring Letters' #4
I - ESSENTIAL KNOWLEDGE TO MASTER
1. Situations that require writing congratulatory and inquiry letters:
a) A congratulatory letter (or email) is written when the recipient experiences joyful events, such as receiving awards, honors, or prestigious titles, earning advanced academic degrees, achieving new milestones in science and technology, or obtaining high-ranking political positions...
b) An inquiry letter (or email) is written when the recipient faces unfortunate situations, such as illness, the loss of a loved one, or damages from natural disasters like storms, floods, etc...
2. How to write congratulatory and inquiry letters:
Read the texts in the textbook and answer the questions.
- Both congratulatory and inquiry letters share similar structures but differ in content (refer to point 1).
- These letters aim to be concise, yet ensure the message is conveyed thoroughly and effectively.
- The tone should be sincere in both congratulatory and inquiry letters.
- The language used in these letters should be brief, complete, and precise.
3. Main content of a congratulatory letter: The purpose is to express joy over the recipient's achievements or happiness. In contrast, an inquiry letter conveys sympathy and support for the recipient’s losses or difficulties.
Both types of letters should express genuine emotions using clear and concise language.
II - PRACTICE GUIDELINES
1. Fill in the details (for each letter provided) in the template as shown in the textbook.
2. In the given situations:
- (a), (b): Congratulatory letter.
- (d), (e): Congratulatory letter.
- (c): Inquiry letter.
3. Based on the sample congratulatory letter in the textbook, complete the following scenarios:
- Your uncle has just been promoted to Associate Professor.
- Your friend's family has been severely affected by a tsunami.

2. Lesson Plan "Congratulatory and Inquiry Letters" No. 5
I. Situations That Require Writing Congratulatory and Inquiry Letters
1. Several situations in which a congratulatory or inquiry letter should be written
2. Answering questions
a. Congratulatory letters are sent when happy events occur, while inquiry letters are sent when unfortunate circumstances happen.
b. For example:
- If a relative far away cannot attend a celebration, you would send a congratulatory letter.
- If a friend in another city is ill, you would send a letter or message to inquire about their health.
c. Congratulatory or inquiry letters are used to express congratulations or sympathy for someone far away, showing care and support.
II. How to Write Congratulatory and Inquiry Letters
1. Read and respond to the questions
a. Similarities and differences
- Similarities: They both include the recipient's name and address, and the content contains reasons for congratulations or inquiries with wishes for the recipient's well-being.
- Differences: The content varies in detail depending on whether it's for congratulation or inquiry.
b. Letter length
- Congratulatory and inquiry letters are typically short and concise.
c. The tone of congratulatory and inquiry letters is always sincere.
d. The writing style is short, clear, and to the point.
2. Expressing ideas with varied phrasing (examples)
- Hearing that a friend is ill
- I feel very worried.
- I wish you a speedy recovery and good health.
- Wishing you a prosperous year ahead, with happiness and many blessings.
3. Content and expression
- Congratulatory and inquiry letters must clearly express the reason for the letter, as well as the message of congratulations or sympathy, with wishes for the recipient's well-being.
- These letters should be written briefly and concisely, with a sincere tone.
III. Exercises
1. Complete the congratulatory letter
a. VIETNAM POST AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION TELEGRAM
Recipient's name and address: All teachers and staff at THCS ...
Message: On the occasion of the Lunar New Year, I wish you and your family good health, success, and much joy.
Sender's name and address: Student ... Class ... THCS ...
b. VIETNAM POST AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION TELEGRAM
Recipient's name and address: Friend ... Class 9 ... THCS ...
Message: Upon hearing that you won a gold medal in the high jump at the Phu Dong Sports Festival, our class is so proud and impressed. Congratulations and we wish you continued success and good health!
Sender's name and address: Your friend - ... Class 9 ... THCS ...
c. VIETNAM POST AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION TELEGRAM
Recipient's name and address: Friend ..., village ..., commune ..., district ..., province ...
Message: I just saw on the news about the devastation caused by the recent storm in your hometown, and I am deeply concerned. I am sending my heartfelt sympathy to you and your family. I hope you will quickly overcome the difficulties and restore normal life.
Sender's name and address: Your friend - ..., Ward ..., District ..., City ...
2. Writing a congratulatory or inquiry letter for the given situation
- Congratulatory letter: (a); (b); (d); (e)
- Inquiry letter: (c);
3. Complete a letter (telegram) with a self-proposed situation
d. VIETNAM POST AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION TELEGRAM
Recipient's name and address: Friend ..., village ..., commune ..., district ..., province ...
Message: I just heard that you have dengue fever, and I am really worried. I wish you a speedy recovery and hope you take good care of your health.
Sender's name and address: Your friend - ..., Ward ..., District ..., City ...

3. Lesson Plan "Congratulatory and Inquiry Letters" No. 6
I. Situations That Require Writing Congratulatory and Inquiry Letters
Question 1:
A situation where an inquiry letter is needed:
+ When the recipient faces sad or difficult times and requires comfort, encouragement, or empathy, such as being ill, in an accident, or experiencing a loss.
A situation where a congratulatory letter is needed:
+ When the recipient has a joyful event: achieving high academic results, celebrating a birthday, etc.
Question 2:
Other situations, such as events, illness, or long-distance communication, also require contact.
Question 3:
Congratulatory letters: praise, encouragement
Inquiry letters: sharing, comforting
II. How to Write Congratulatory and Inquiry Letters
Question 1:
The main content of a congratulatory or inquiry letter is to express the reason, offer congratulations or inquire about the recipient, and wish them well. The language should be brief, concise, and convey sincere feelings.
The language in both types of letters is casual, friendly, and doesn't need to adhere to strict formalities.
The tone of both congratulatory and inquiry letters is gentle and emotional.
Question 2:
Examples of specific phrases could be:
On the occasion of October 20th, we write to inquire about your health and send our congratulations.
I'm so happy that you have been accepted into the university of your choice.
We wish you success in achieving your dreams.
Our condolences to you and your family.
Question 3:
The main purpose of these letters is to send good wishes and inquiries.
They are mostly expressed in a gentle and emotional manner.
III. Exercises
Question 1:
Recipient's name and address: Le Thi Van
Message: Congratulations on your outstanding results in the Hanoi City student competition. We look forward to seeing you this summer.
Sender's name and address: Le Van Bach, Hong Bang, Hai Phong
Question 2:
- Situations that require a congratulatory letter: a, b, d, e
- Situations that require an inquiry letter: c

4. Lesson Plan "Congratulatory and Inquiry Letters" No. 1
I. Situations Requiring Congratulatory and Inquiry Letters
- Situations where a congratulatory letter should be sent:
+ When the recipient is celebrating an event or achievement such as receiving an award, earning a high academic degree, or achieving success in studies or work...
+ When the writer is unable to visit the recipient directly to express congratulations due to distance or other circumstances.
- Situations requiring an inquiry letter:
+ When the recipient is going through difficult or tragic events such as illness, the loss of a loved one, or natural disasters...
+ When the writer, due to any reason, cannot visit to offer sympathy or support.
How to write congratulatory and inquiry letters:
- Similarities: Both letters have the same format and express the writer's emotions.
- Differences: The purpose of each letter differs.
+ Inquiry letter: expresses sympathy, comfort, and encouragement.
+ Congratulatory letter: offers praise and motivation.
Exercises
Exercise 1 (Page 204 of 9th Grade Literature Textbook, Volume 2)
VIETNAM POST AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION
TELEGRAM
Recipient's name and address: Nguyen Van A
Address: 4, Alley 175, Xuan Thuy, Cau Giay District, Hanoi
Message: On the occasion of the Lunar New Year, I wish you and your family health, happiness, and success. On the third day of Tet, I would like to bring my family to visit you.
Sender's name and address: Tran Kim B, Xom 4, Binh Minh Village, Kim Son District, Ninh Binh
Exercise 2 (Page 204 of 9th Grade Literature Textbook, Volume 2)
Situations requiring a telegram:
- Congratulatory telegram
- Inquiry telegram
- Congratulatory letter
- Inquiry letter
Exercise 3 (Page 204 of 9th Grade Literature Textbook, Volume 2)
Common situations requiring telegrams: birthday greetings, New Year wishes, congratulations for friends achieving success in exams...

5. Lesson "Congratulatory and Inquiry Letters (Electronic)" No. 2
Part I: SITUATIONS REQUIRING CONGRATULATORY AND INQUIRY LETTERS (ELECTRONIC)
Question (page 202, Literature 9, Volume 2):
Answer:
a.
- Situations requiring congratulatory letters (electronic): a, b
- Situations requiring inquiry letters (electronic): c, d
b.
- Situations for sending congratulatory letters (electronic): On occasions such as birthdays, holidays, etc.
- Situations for sending inquiry letters (electronic): When relatives are sick or facing health issues.
c. Purpose
- Congratulatory letters (electronic): To praise and encourage the recipient’s achievements.
- Inquiry letters (electronic): To offer support and comfort in overcoming challenges.
Part II: HOW TO WRITE CONGRATULATORY AND INQUIRY LETTERS (ELECTRONIC)
Question 1 (page 203, Literature 9, Volume 2):
a.
- Similarities: Both share a formal structure and convey the writer’s emotions.
- Differences in purpose:
+ Congratulatory letters (electronic): To celebrate and encourage the recipient's success.
+ Inquiry letters (electronic): To comfort and encourage the recipient to overcome difficulties.
b. Length of the letter (electronic): It should be brief and concise.
c. The tone of the letter (electronic) should be sincere and heartfelt.
d. The language should be clear and concise.
Question 2 (page 203, Literature 9, Volume 2):
- On the occasion of Vietnamese Teachers' Day (November 20), I wish my teachers good health, happiness, and success in their teaching careers.
- I am deeply grateful for the guidance and education my teachers have provided.
- I hope my teachers will always be an inspiration and a safe harbor for us.
Question 3 (page 203, Literature 9, Volume 2):
- The main content of a congratulatory letter (electronic) is to encourage and praise the recipient's achievements. In contrast, the main purpose of an inquiry letter (electronic) is to offer comfort and encouragement to help the recipient overcome challenges.
- Expression style: Clear, concise, and to the point.
Part III: EXERCISES
Answer to Question 1 (page 204, Literature 9, Volume 2):
- Recipient's name and address: Nguyen Van A, 5D Ham Long, Hanoi.
- Content: On your birthday, I wish you good health, happiness, and success in your studies.
- Sender's name and address: Nguyen Thi B, 7 Tay Son, Hanoi.
Answer to Question 2 (page 204, Literature 9, Volume 2):
- Inquiry letter (electronic): c
- Congratulatory letter (electronic): a, b, d, e
Answer to Question 3 (page 204, Literature 9, Volume 2):
- Recipient’s name and address: Pham Van C, Quang Trung Secondary School, Dong Da, Hanoi.
- Content: Congratulations on your outstanding performance in the city-level academic competition.
- Sender’s name and address: Nguyen Van D, Giang Vo Secondary School, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi.

6. Lesson "Congratulatory and Inquiry Letters (Electronic)" No. 3
A. GUIDELINES FOR STUDYING THE LESSON
I. Situations Requiring Congratulatory and Inquiry Letters (Electronic)
Congratulatory or inquiry letters (electronic) are messages expressing congratulations or sympathy from the sender to the recipient.
Requirements for the content and format of congratulatory or inquiry letters (electronic):
Content: The letter should state the reason for writing, the congratulatory message or inquiry, and wish the recipient well. It should convey the sender’s sincere feelings.
Format: The message should be brief and to the point.
1. Some situations where congratulatory or inquiry letters (electronic) are needed (SGK, page 202).
2. Answer to the question:
a. Congratulatory letters (electronic) are written when the recipient has significant joyous events, such as receiving awards or honors, earning academic degrees, or achieving remarkable success in science or technology.
Inquiry letters (electronic) are written when the recipient faces unfortunate situations, such as illness, the loss of a loved one, or damages caused by natural disasters.
b. Some specific cases requiring congratulatory or inquiry letters (electronic).
I sent a congratulatory letter (electronic) to my friend for winning second place in the National Literary Olympiad.
My friend’s family experienced an unfortunate event, so I sent an inquiry letter (electronic).
My friend did not pass the entrance exam to the province's specialized school, and I sent an inquiry letter (electronic).
c. The purpose and impact of congratulatory and inquiry letters (electronic) are as follows: Congratulatory letters (electronic) express joy and celebration with the recipient during happy events, while inquiry letters (electronic) show sympathy and support in difficult times.
II. How to Write Congratulatory and Inquiry Letters (Electronic)
Question 1. Read the texts and answer the questions.
The content of congratulatory and inquiry letters (electronic) is similar yet different as follows:
Similarities: The content usually includes:
+ The reason for congratulating or inquiring.
+ Expressing the sender’s thoughts and emotions upon hearing good or bad news about the recipient.
+ A message of congratulations or inquiry, sympathy, or condolences.
Differences:
+ Congratulatory letters (electronic) convey the sender’s joy.
+ Inquiry letters (electronic) express the sender’s sadness.
Regarding the length of the congratulatory and inquiry letters (electronic): These letters are often sent through postal services, so they tend to be concise and straightforward.
The tone of both types of letters should be sincere and from the heart.
The language used in both types is generally brief and direct.
Question 2. Reword the following topics in different ways:
The reason for writing a congratulatory or inquiry letter.
→ The reason why one should write a congratulatory or inquiry letter.
+ On International Women's Day, March 8.
+ Upon learning that your family has completed building a new house.
+ Upon hearing that you did not win in the academic competition.
The sender's thoughts and feelings towards the recipient’s joy or misfortune.
—> The thoughts and emotions of the writer.
+ I am happy to send my congratulations to my mother.
+ I am very pleased.
+ I deeply regret.
The wishes or condolences of the sender.
+ Wishing you good health and happiness.
+ Wishing your family unity and happiness in your new home.
+ Hoping that you quickly overcome this sorrow and focus on your upcoming exams.
Question 3. The main content of a congratulatory or inquiry letter (electronic) should state the reason for writing, the message of congratulations or inquiry, and express the sender’s good wishes for the recipient’s well-being.
The expression in these letters should be brief, clear, and heartfelt.
B. GUIDELINES FOR PRACTICE
1. This exercise requires you to complete three sample letters in section II as per the model in SGK, page 204.
VIETNAM POST AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS GROUP
TELEGRAM
Recipient's name and address: Le Ngoc Long.
Address: 172, Alley 25, Quan Hoa Ward, Cau Giay District, Hanoi.
Message: On the occasion of the Lunar New Year (Year of the Dog), I wish you and your entire family good health, success, and much joy.
Sender’s name and address (only necessary if required for delivery):
Phung Mai Hoa, Group 7, Duoc Ha Hamlet, Tien Duoc Commune, Soc Son District, Hanoi.
Sender's name and address (This part is not transmitted and is free of charge, but the sender must fill it in fully and clearly for postal services to contact in case of delivery difficulties. The post office is not responsible if the customer does not provide complete information as required.)
Phung Mai Hoa, Group 7, Duoc Ha Hamlet, Tien Duoc Commune, Soc Son District, Hanoi.

