<p>Title's pretty self explanatory.</p>
<p>"Hi Mr ___,</p>
<p>This is _<em>__, and I was wondering if you would be able to write me a recommendation letter for (whatever you’re applying to). The due date is </em>.</p>
<p>Thanks!"</p>
<p>Anyway, I emailed a teacher with this but it’s because I knew him pretty well, I think if you feel comfortable with him then you can ask in whatever way.</p>
<p>I would always ask in person, just because you can explain more. In addition, in my emails, or when you’re talking to him, I would add</p>
<p>*what the program is (or college(s)) and why you’d like to go there
*why you’re asking them; letters of rec, ideally, should include concrete examples/stories/anecdotes featuring you-- remind her of one or two or a time/unit/project you did really well on</p>