Polite Language
Getting Ready
In groups, read the following mystery quotation. Discuss and answer the questions that follow.
“The true test of a good citizen is how they behave when no one is watching.”
Discussion questions
- What does the mystery quotation mean to you?
- Do you agree with the quotation? Why or why not?
- Can you provide an example of a time when you demonstrated good citizenship even when no one was watching?
- Why is it important to be a good citizen even when no one is watching?
- How can you encourage others to be good citizens even when no one is watching?
- Share your ideas in class
Activity 1
In pairs, read the following poem and answer the questions that follow.
Polite Words
In the field of etiquette,
Politeness is a lovely set,
Of words and phrases so refined,
Used by those with manners kind.
“Please” and “thank you” are polite,
When asking for something right,
“Excuse me” when you need to pass,
And “pardon me” when you’re in a mass.
“Greetings” when you meet someone new,
And “farewell” when you say adieu,
“May I” before you make a request,
And “I’m sorry” when you’ve caused unrest.
Politeness is a way to show,
That you respect and care, you know,
It’s not just words, but also deeds,
That make others feel good indeed.
So let’s use polite words each day,
In all we do and all we say,
For kindness and respect will grow,
And make the world a better show.
Discussion questions
- What are some examples of polite words used in the poem?
- Why is it important to use polite words?
- Can you think of a time when someone used polite words with you? How did it make you feel?
- How can using polite words improve our relationships with others?
- What are some other ways we can show respect and good manners besides using polite words?
Activity 2
In groups, role-play the following conversation.
Teacher: | Good morning, class. Today, we’re going to talk about euphemisms. Can anyone tell me what a euphemism is? |
Kavogoi: | Is it like when you use a better word to replace a harsh one? |
Teacher: | Yes, that’s right. A euphemism is a polite or indirect word or expression used to replace one considered to be too harsh or blunt. Can you give me an example? |
Mutua: | Instead of saying someone died, you say they passed away. |
Teacher: | Excellent example. Now, let’s look at some other words and phrases that are used as euphemisms. |
Teacher: | Yes, Onyango? |
Onyango: | Is “restroom” a euphemism for “toilet”? |
Teacher: | Yes, it is. Other examples include “powder room” and “washroom.” Can anyone think of other euphemisms for “toilet”? |
Teacher: | Yes, Muriithi? |
Muriithi: | “Bathroom” and “lavatory.” |
Teacher: | Very good. |
Teacher: | Yes, Mbithe? |
Mbithe: | Do you think euphemisms can be misleading sometimes? |
Teacher: | That’s an interesting point. Euphemisms can sometimes be used to hide the true meaning of something or make it sound less serious than it really is. It’s important to be aware of this when we use them. |
Teacher: | Yes, Katani? |
Katani: | Can you give us an example of a euphemism that’s used in the media? |
Teacher: | Sure. Instead of saying someone was fired, the media might say they were “let go” or “released.” This makes it sound less harsh and avoids negative connotations. That concludes our lesson on euphemisms for today. Remember to be mindful of the words you use and how they might affect others. |
Questions
- Why do you think people use euphemisms?
- Can you think of any situations where it might be appropriate to use one?
- How do euphemisms affect the way we communicate with each other?
- Share your answers in class.
Activity 3
In groups, role-play the following conversation.
Teacher: | Good morning, class! Today, we will be discussing how euphemisms can be used to show politeness in communication. Now, let’s practise using euphemisms in a dialogue. Let’s say you need to tell your friend that their breath smells bad. How can you use a euphemism to say it politely? |
Mary: | Maybe you could say something like, “Hey, have you tried chewing gum lately?” |
Teacher: | Great example! Instead of saying “Your breath stinks,” you used a euphemism to suggest a solution without being too direct. Can anyone think of another example? |
Alex: | If your friend is wearing clothes that don’t look good on them, you could say something like, “I think you would look better in something else.” |
Teacher: | Perfect! By using a euphemism, you are able to convey your message without hurting your friend’s feelings. Now, let’s have a conversation using euphemisms. |
Mugo: | Hey, did you hear about Mr Kibet’s retirement? |
Mary: | Oh yes, I heard he’s going to be spending more time with his family. |
Alex: | I think he’s becoming a senior citizen. |
Teacher: | Excellent use of euphemisms! |
Questions
- How do euphemisms help us communicate politely?
- Can you think of any situations where euphemisms are necessary? How can you use euphemisms effectively without being too vague?
- Present a skit in class about COVID 19 and the role of the citizens in curbing its spread. Ensure you use euphemistic words and expressions.
- Share your points in class.
Activity 4
- As a class, agree on a motion on citizenship for a debate.
- Make the rules to guide how the debate will be conducted.
- Decide on the proposers and opposers of the motion. Some of the rules should be about time for every speaker, use of Polite Language, respect for each other and good turn-taking, among others.
- Conduct the debate. Remember to use euphemism
Activity 5
- In groups, watch a video clip or listen to a recording of a parliamentary debate.
- Identify the euphemism used during the debate.
- Compare your points with those of your classmates.
Activity 6
In groups, study the scenario below then answer the questions that follow.
It is the first day of class and Ms. Kabuga, the English teacher, is introducing herself to her Grade 9 learners. She walks into the classroom with a big smile on her face and greets everyone warmly. However, some of the learners do not respond and continue to chat amongst themselves. Ms. Kabuga notices this and decides to address the issue.
“Good morning, everyone! My name is Ms. Kabuga and I will be your teacher of English this year. I am really excited to get to know all of you and help you improve your language skills. However, I noticed that some of you did not respond when I greeted you earlier. Is there a reason for that?”
Discussion questions
- Why is it important to be polite when communicating with others?
- How do you feel when someone ignores you or does not respond to your greetings?
- Have you ever been in a situation where you did not respond to someone’s greeting? Why?
- What are some ways to show politeness in communication?
- How can being polite improve your relationships with others?
Activity 7
- In groups, compile a list of euphemistic words and expressions.
- Create posters with the compiled list of euphemistic words and expressions.
- Display them on your school’s noticeboards. You can also share them on social media platforms.
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