The Australian Dictionary of Invisible Culture for Teachers
how to make a big request
norm: when it is like this, it is good to do some things (see more)
At some times, it can be like this: Someone (e.g. Michael) wants someone else (e.g. John) to do something good (for this person (i.e. Michael)). This something is big.
When it is like this, Michael thinks something like this: John doesn’t want to do it. It will be bad for me if John doesn’t do this something. Maybe if he knows this, he will do it.
It is good if Michael says something like this to James “I want you to do this something good for me. It is something big. It will be bad for me if you don’t do it. You can say ‘I don’t want to do it.’ I think you won’t do it. If you do it, I will feel something very good towards you.”
"I know this is a long shot, but is there any chance you're driving to Sydney this weekend and could give me a lift? I really need to get to a funeral, and I can't afford the trip on my own."
"This is a massive ask, but can you help me do my shopping? I can't walk, and I need help reaching the shelves."
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