Instructions: Letter of Complaint

Objective: Write a formal letter of complaint using the correct structure, useful phrases, and connectors.

Steps to follow:

1. Greeting (saludo):
   • If you don’t know the person: Dear Sir/Madam,
   • If you know the name: Dear Mr… / Dear Mrs… / Dear Ms…
2. Introduction (introducción):
   • State the reason for writing, e.g.:
     • I am writing to complain about…
     • I wish to complain in the strongest terms about…
3. Body (cuerpo de la carta):
   • Explain your complaint clearly and formally.
   • Use at least 3 useful phrases (e.g. I am really dissatisfied with… / I would suggest that… / I hope you will take into consideration…).
   • Use at least 3 connectors (and, or, but, so, because, although).
   • Be polite but firm.
4. Ending (cierre):
   • State what you expect (a refund, an explanation, compensation, etc.).
   • Example: I look forward to hearing from you as soon as possible.
5. Final remarks (despedida):
   • If you know the name: Yours sincerely,
   • If you don’t know the name: Yours faithfully,
   • Add your full name at the end.

⚠️ Important:

• Use formal language.
• Finish today in class (responsibility).
• Minimum: 120 words.

✅ Rubric – Letter of Complaint

Standard 1: Organization (Structure of the letter)

• 5 pts: All parts included (Greeting, Introduction, Body, Ending, Final remarks) and in correct order.
• 3 pts: Most parts included but with some mistakes in order or missing one.
• 1 pt: Poor structure, several missing parts, disorganized.

Standard 2: Use of Language (Grammar & Vocabulary)

• 5 pts: No grammar mistakes, wide use of formal vocabulary.
• 3 pts: 1–3 minor mistakes, acceptable vocabulary.
• 1 pt: More than 3 mistakes, vocabulary too basic/informal.

Standard 3: Use of Connectors

• 5 pts: Uses at least 3 connectors (and, or, but, so, because, although) correctly.
• 3 pts: Uses 2 connectors or with some mistakes.
• 1 pt: Only 1 or none, incorrect usage.

Standard 4: Use of Useful Phrases

• 5 pts: Uses 3 or more useful complaint expressions correctly.
• 3 pts: Uses 2 useful phrases.
• 1 pt: Only 1 or none, or used incorrectly.

Standard 5: Responsibility (Completion on time)

• 5 pts: Finished today, neat and complete.
• 3 pts: Finished today but incomplete or messy.
• 1 pt: Did not finish in class.