Smile

High school (ages 12+)
Human Body

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/smile

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 evolutionary function?Likely evolved as a non-threatening signal for affiliation and appeasement
2. What is the psychological impact?Can trigger endorphin release, improving mood and reducing stress (facial feedback hypothesis)
3. What is a smile and what muscles make it happen?A smile is when the corners of the mouth lift and the eyes crinkle. The zygomaticus major muscles lift the mouth, and the orbicularis oculi muscles move the eyes. These muscles work together to show happiness.
4. How can I tell if someone is really happy when they smile?A real, or Duchenne, smile has a tiny crinkle around the eyes that happens on its own. It shows that the person is truly happy. A social smile is made on purpose and only lifts the mouth.

Zygomaticus Major: A facial muscle responsible for lifting the corners of the mouth during a smile.
Orbicularis Oculi: Muscles surrounding the eyes, whose contraction contributes to a genuine Duchenne smile.
Duchenne Smile: A genuine smile characterized by the involuntary contraction of muscles around the eyes, indicating authentic positive emotion.
Facial Feedback Hypothesis: The theory that facial expressions can influence emotional experience.