Title: Finding a Job

Topic: Reading the classified ads and letter writing

Level: Novice

Focus Age Group: 15 - 17 year

National Standards Goals:

Communication   Culture   Connections   Comparisons   Communities

Communicative Mode:

Interpersonal   Interpretive   Presentational

N.J. Cumulative Progress Indicators:

• 7.1.5   Provide and obtain information on familiar topics
• 7.1.12  Express details of everyday life and of past experiences
• 7.1.15  Explore employment opportunities where languages are advantageous

Time Frame: One 45-minute class time

Description of Task:
While spending a semester abroad, you realize that you need some spending money and should find a part-time job. Find the classified section of a Spanish-language newspaper, read the selections and select a job that you might find interesting.

After determining that you have the appropriate qualifications for the job, write a simple letter inquiring about the position. Be sure to use formal forms of address, list your qualifications, and address and close the letter in a culturally appropriate manner.

Materials Needed: Spanish-language newspaper or access to one on the Internet

Teacher Notes:
Prior to using this activity, students should be provided with sample job application letters.

Scoring Criteria:
Scoring will be based on the correct form of the formal letter which must include a greeting and a closing.

The student is to be rated in each category below with the scores for each category added together to make the total score.

Adaptations:
This activity may be expanded into an oral interview. Students should prepare a series of possible questions that they might be asked during an interview and prepare answers.

Diana Chase
Howell High School
405 Squankum-Yellowbrook Road
Farmingdale, NJ 07727
732.919.2131