March 2026 · Writing & Comm
Understanding register — when to use formal vs. informal English — is crucial for effective communication. Many ESL students default to one register, sounding either too stiff or too casual. This guide helps you teach register awareness and style shifting.
| Register | Context | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Frozen | Legal documents, prayers | "Wherefore art thou..." |
| Formal | Business letters, academic papers | "I would like to request..." |
| Consultative | Professional conversation | "Could you tell me about...?" |
| Casual | Friends, family | "What's up?" |
| Intimate | Close relationships | Personal language, nicknames |
| Formal | Informal |
|---|---|
| purchase | buy |
| commence | start |
| enquire | ask |
| sufficient | enough |
| approximately | about |
Give students mixed sentences and ask them to sort into formal/informal columns.
Students rewrite the same message for different audiences: boss, friend, colleague.
Introduce the concept at B1 when students have enough language to see differences. At B2+, teach explicit register shifting. Even at A2, you can point out "this is formal" vs "this is friendly" in context.