Answer:
Throwing the paper was a provocation.
Explanation:
Provocation is defined in the dictionary as: an action intended to cause a reaction, especially anger or annoyance.
Frank's behaviour reveals that he wanted attention, he knew he would gain it by making people laugh , he also knew that flinging the paper airplane would be a very provocative act as Mr. Curtis wouldn't tolerate it, so the whole act of flinging the paper was a provocation because he wanted to infurate the teacher to make people laugh and ultimately gaining attention.