Please

High school (ages 12+)
People & Society

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/please

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is the modulation factors?Effectiveness is influenced by intonation, context, relationship between speakers, and cultural norms
2. What does the word "please" mean?It comes from Old French "plaisir," which means to be pleasing or agreeable. Saying "please" shows that you want to be polite when you ask for something.
3. Why do we say "please" when we ask for something?Saying "please" helps keep the other person happy and shows respect. It makes it easier for them to help you.

Pragmatics: The study of how context influences the interpretation of language and meaning.
Face-Threat: An action or statement that challenges or offends a person's sense of self-worth or public image.
Linguistic Compression: The process where words or phrases become shorter over time while retaining their original meaning.
Politeness Theory: A framework explaining how people use language to manage social relationships and avoid causing offense.