Core Skills Analysis
English
- Develops reading comprehension by interpreting informational texts on eating disorders and media influence.
- Expands academic vocabulary related to health, psychology, and digital culture (e.g., "body dysmorphia," "algorithm," "stigma").
- Enhances critical thinking by evaluating the credibility of website sources and identifying bias in social‑media messaging.
- Practices written expression through quiz responses, summarising key points and forming personal reflections.
Health
- Builds knowledge of nutrition, mental health, and the physiological signs of eating disorders.
- Raises awareness of how social‑media trends can affect self‑image and eating behaviours.
- Encourages health literacy by interpreting quiz feedback and linking it to real‑world prevention strategies.
- Fosters personal responsibility by planning healthy online habits and supportive peer communication.
Tips
To deepen learning, have students create a short podcast episode interviewing a peer about how Instagram filters influence body image, then compare findings with the website data. Follow up with a classroom debate on regulation of beauty‑related advertising aimed at teens, using evidence gathered from the quizzes. Incorporate a reflective journal where each student tracks one week of their own social‑media use and notes any mood or food‑choice changes, linking observations back to the health content. Finally, design a poster campaign that promotes digital‑wellness tips, applying persuasive language techniques practiced in English.
Book Recommendations
- The Body Image Workbook for Teens by Julia V. L. G. O'Reilly: A guided journal that combines science‑based information on eating disorders with activities to boost self‑esteem and media literacy.
- You Are What You Post: A Social Media Survival Guide for Teens by Emily Mackintosh: Explores the psychological impact of online platforms and offers practical strategies for healthy digital habits.
- Girl, Stop Apologizing! by Rachel Hollis: Encourages young readers to reject unrealistic beauty standards and pursue authentic self‑confidence.
Learning Standards
- English – ACELA1665: Analysing how language choices create meaning in informational texts.
- English – ACELY1705: Using comprehension strategies to interpret and evaluate health‑related content.
- Health and Physical Education – ACHASSK108: Understanding factors influencing personal health, including media and body image.
- Health and Physical Education – ACHASSK109: Evaluating strategies for mental‑health promotion and prevention of eating disorders.
Try This Next
- Worksheet: Compare three social‑media posts (one edited, one authentic, one promotional) and label persuasive techniques and potential health impacts.
- Quiz creation: Students design a 10‑question Kahoot! on eating‑disorder myths vs. facts, then host a class challenge.