AALL Internet Lesson: Preparing Resumes and Cover Letters

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Learning Level: Upper level ABE
Arizona Standards/Indicators
Writing
Indicator A: Applies correct spelling, punctuation, capitalization, grammar and usage rules to complete a variety of writing tasks

Indicator B: Applies the writing process to complete a variety of writing tasks

Student Outcome Objectives:
1. Use Internet search engines to locate at least 4 different sources for both sample resumes and cover letters
2. Review and compare different styles of cover letters/resumes; select appropriate format for position desired
3. Complete one cover letter
4. Complete one resume
5. Submit at least one resume electronically for review/feedback

Learning Context: Adult student as a worker

Lesson Overview:
Preparing a resume and cover letter to send to potential employers is a skill in itself. Frequently particular career fields have specific guidelines for resume content and format. Today's electronic networks also open the door for submitting resumes electronically. This format often requires a variation of the traditional resume submitted on high quality paper.

This Internet-based lesson will require students to use their technology skills as well as their writing skills to develop both a resume and cover letter. The Internet is a rich source of information and people to consult with on virtually any topic. There are many websites offering suggestions on form, format, and substance for preparing a resume and cover letter. These sites are designed by high schools colleges, libraries, state and federal agencies, and "For Profit'' groups and individuals.

In this lesson students will use Internet search engines and referenced websites to locate and examine sample resumes and cover letters, determine formats most appropriate for their career field, and create both a cover letter and resume. After proof reading and using peer review, students will prepare a final copy on quality stock paper. An additional activity will include submitting the resume electronically.

Warm-up:
1. Ask students how many of them have prepared a resume and cover letter for employment.

2. Ask students to identify the format, tone, and items that should be included in a quality resume. Discuss how resumes might vary depending on your job experience, the type of job you are seeking, and certain expectations or protocol within the career field. (Discuss what might be expected in the following industries-- Fast food, fine dining restaurants, retail positions, trade positions, professional positions).

3. Ask students to describe a cover letter and the points that should be included in a cover letter. Discuss how business letters differ from "friendly" or personal letters, and that letter format is just as important as content.

4. Ask students to work in small groups to brainstorm and answer the first six questions see  Student Activity Sheet

Student Activity:
1. Have students browse the two Internet sites on cover letters and resumes to compare their answers for the first six questions (on the Student Activity Sheet) to recommendations from "experts" on the Web.

Resume Writing 
JobStar: Resumes

Writing a Great Cover Letter
Key Points Columbia

1. Why is your resume important?
2. What is the difference between Chronological, Functional, and a Combination resume?
3. What items should you always include in a resume?
4. What items should you never include in a resume?
5. Why is it important to write a cover letter to send with your resume?
6. What are the goals of your cover letter?

2. After most students have completed the answers to the above questions, discuss findings and key points to remember when preparing a cover letter and resume.

3. Review the web addresses of several search engines.
http://www.altavista.com

http://www.excite.com

http://www.yahoo.com

4. Working with the students, develop the criteria for evaluating the final cover letter and resume using the Arizona Adult Education standards and criteria for developing a good cover letter and resume.

Arizona Adult Education Writing Standards:
Indicator A: Applies correct spelling, punctuation, capitalization, grammar and usage rules to complete a variety of writing tasks

Spells words commonly used at this level
Punctuates using commas and quotation marks
Applies rules of capitalization in quotes and letters
Applies standard grammar and usage.
Identifies basic parts of speech: verbs, nouns, pronouns, adjectives, adverbs, c conjunctions, prepositions, interjections

Indicator B: Applies the writing process to complete a variety of writing tasks

Writes a business letter using an appropriate format
Develops a simple personal résumé

Discuss/develop a set of criteria for a cover letter and resume.

Consider using the following criteria:
For the cover letter:
Three to four paragraphs
Include a summary of skills
Follow the conventions of English grammar and usage

For the resume:
Contact information
Educational background
Work experience

5. Give students their assignments:
-Working in pairs on a computer, use search engine(s) and referenced web sites to learn more about preparing a cover letter and resume.

-Develop a list of skills, interests, accomplishments, experiences, and qualifications to include in the resume. Discuss with your partner, compare notes, and get suggestions.

-Use the suggestions from the online "experts" and your partner and incorporate those ideas with your list to begin a draft resume.

-Develop a three or four paragraph cover letter to get the prospective employer interested in you, briefly outline your skills related to the job opening, and show you are dependable and anxious to work for them.

-Complete a grammar and spell check on your work; do a peer review with your partner, keeping in mind the Standards and criteria outlined in above.

-After peer review and final edits, print both cover letter and resume on good quality paper.

-Interested students complete the Virtualville Interactive Resume form online and print results.

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