Lesson 20: Cover Letter
About This Lesson: This lesson introduces students to the job application process by focusing on how to write an effective cover letter and understand the role of a resume. Students learn that while networking can open opportunities, a strong cover letter is essential for convincing hiring managers to consider them for a position. The lesson breaks down the structure of a professional cover letter, including how to introduce oneself, highlight relevant skills and experiences, and close with a clear and confident message. Students also explore how to use “power phrases” and tailor their writing to specific jobs, even if they have limited work experience. Overall, the lesson emphasizes professional communication, self-presentation, and the importance of building experience early to support future career goals.
Lesson Plan & Other Important Documents
Prompt: Imagine you are applying for your first job.
Students write 3–4 sentences and share with a partner.
- What would you say to convince an employer to hire you?
- What skills or qualities would you highlight?
Students write 3–4 sentences and share with a partner.
Step 1: Download This Document First Or Sign In To Canva
Directions (Mr. Kazanjian's Template): You may use my template (the word document in the box below), or you could choose to use a template on Canva.
Directions For Canva: Sign in to Clever and then click the Canva button.After that, do a search for a cover letter template. Please note that if you use Canva, you must use my format. (See the section below titled "Parts Of The Cover Letter That You Must Have"
Step 2: Watch The Video
Directions: Watch the video and download the documents in English or Spanish. Watch the video and create a cover letter for a job that you are interested in applying for. I want you to ideally apply for a job that fits what you researched in the career clusters assignments. But, if you are still unsure, search for a job in Hempstead (below) and create a cover letter.
Task: Create a cover letter for a job that you are interested in. Or if you prefer, you can create a cover letter for a job that is currently available in Hempstead.
Step 3: Utilize The Following Resources
Power Phrases
Power Phrases are phrases that are convincing. You may cut and paste some in the body of your Cover Letter
| power-phrases.pdf |
| power-phrases__spanish_.pdf |
A Model Cover Letter That Mr. K. Wrote
Here is a sample cover letter that I wrote.
| model_cover_letter.docx |
| model_cover_letter__spanish_.docx |
Parts Of The Cover Letter That You Must Have
- Header (Video 4:45)
- Greeting To Address Hiring Manager (Video 4:52)
- Opening Paragraph: (Video 5:00)
- Middle Paragraph: (Video 5:19)
- Last Paragraph: (Video 5:42)
- Signed (Your Name)
After You Finish
After you finish your cover letter, attach it to lesson 20 on Schoology.