Every written message has a form or structure. This means it follows a certain pattern or layout. Most messages in English have three main parts:

• Greeting – The way we address the person (for example: "Dear Betty," or "Dear Dad,")
• Body – The main message or wish we want to share
• Closing – The sign-off with the writer's name (for example: "Chakupewa" or "Anthony")

Here is an example showing the form of a birthday wish:

Dear Betty,

As you turn 9 today, I wish you every success in life. Happy birthday, Betty! Chakupewa

Notice how the message starts with a greeting, has the wish in the middle, and ends with the sender's name.

The content of a message is what the message is about – the purpose or meaning behind the words. Different types of wishes have different content:

Look at this message and identify its form and content:

Dear Dad, I know you have been promoted to a senior position at work. Congratulations! I hope you will enjoy more promotions in the future. Doris

Form:

• Greeting: "Dear Dad,"
• Body: The main message about the promotion and congratulations
• Closing: "Doris" (the sender's name)

Content:

• The purpose is to congratulate the father on his work promotion. It is a congratulatory message that celebrates achievement and wishes him well for the future.

When you read a message, ask yourself two questions:

1. What is the form? – Look for the greeting, the main body, and who wrote it.
2. What is the content? – Think about why the message is being sent. Is it for a birthday? To say thank you? To wish someone well?

Read each message carefully. First, find the three parts (greeting, body, closing). Then, decide what kind of wish it is by looking at the words used. The words will tell you if it is a birthday wish, a get-well wish, a congratulatory message, or an appreciation message.

In Tanzania, people often send wishes and messages during special occasions. For example, when a friend in your village passes their examinations or gets a job, you might write them a congratulatory card. Similarly, when a family member is sick, you can send a get-well-soon message to show you care. These messages help people feel loved and supported in their daily lives.