Email etiquette for high school students is an important lesson that goes beyond hitting the obvious literacy standards. It really is more than just spelling and grammar. Students need to understand the need for email etiquette in schools because it will translate to business and life beyond high school. Read on to find ideas on how to teach your students professional email etiquette.
Tip #1: Teach Students WHEN to Write a Professional Email
We’ve all been to meetings that could have been an email, but students need to understand that emails have a place and a purpose. Emails are handy to keep requests in writing, like a specific question that can’t wait for an in-person meet up. I’ve also used emails many times in the professional world to find resources I need for a job or assignment. I’ve emailed mentors, and requested links to specific files. There are plenty of good reasons to send an email, but there are also plenty of reasons not to.
Tip #2: Teach Students the Mechanics of a Professional Email
Give students the expectations of a professional email. Seeing good examples is important, so have past examples of exemplary emails on hand. Find examples that show a clear subject line and good format (with a greeting, body, and a closure). That’s usually the most obvious thing, but students often don’t think about things like their email address. If they’re applying to colleges or jobs with “soccergirrrrl2013” they may need to consider a more professional address. They also should double check any attached images that are connected. A meme might be really funny, but it doesn’t need to catch a ride on the signature line that automatically sends with your time off request or grade check.
And, I can’t stress this enough, proofread. Then proofread again. Because you will always find the most obvious mistakes after you hit send. It’s a paradox of the universe.
Tip #3: Provide PLENTY of Non-Examples
Honestly, I find that my students learn best from seeing what not to do. Some faux pas are just so hilarious that it sticks out in their heads far better than seeing a lot of boring professional emails. So, show them the rude emails. The ones that are completely unforgiving to the humanity of the people they’re contacting. We’re all human, mistakes happen and can be addressed politely. No emojis and no slang terms. Aside from not being part of the standard for professionalism, I’m getting too old to guess what the latest terminology means. My eyes are also too old to look at a ton of different fonts, so point out to students the most common fonts that are usually pretty standard when they open an email (like Times or Calibri).
It’s also good to point out to students the appropriate timeframe for responses. Students shouldn’t repeatedly email over and over. A 1-2 day response time is fairly standard, but remind them that weekends don’t count.
Tip #4: Practice, practice, practice!
A great way to practice is by giving students an opportunity to practice something they probably have already done – email the teacher. Creating a mock email provides a perfect space for students and is applicable in real life. Everything they learn from conducting themselves professionally with a teacher can be used in college and careers, or anytime they need to contact someone through email (hello customer service!).
Email Etiquette for Students Mini-Lesson
Looking for a done-for-you mini-lesson to guide your students through proper email etiquette? I have just the resource for you! My Email Etiquette Mini-Lesson includes a full slideshow with tips, examples, non-examples, and a practice worksheet so students can show you what they know. The resource was created with flexible digital and printable options so you can use it in the way that makes the most sense for your classroom. Find it right here.
Do your students struggle with email etiquette? Are there some doozies you’ve received? How do you teach professionalism to your students? Share your best examples and teaching tips in the comments below or find me on Facebook and Instagram.
Happy teaching!
