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Body Talk: See More, Be More?

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Be Cañada Real

Tier 1
For Schools

Lesson Plan

Body Talk Lesson Plan

Students will be able to understand and discuss the concepts of body positivity and body obsession, improve English listening comprehension, and express their opinions on self-image and media influence.

This lesson is crucial for helping students navigate societal pressures related to appearance, develop critical thinking skills, and foster a respectful and inclusive environment regarding body image.

Audience

16-year-old English as a Foreign Language (EFL) students

Time

50 minutes

Approach

Interactive discussion, vocabulary building, TED Talk viewing, and guided reflection.

Materials

Google Slides or Projector, Body Talk Slide Deck, Body Talk Worksheet, Body Talk Answer Key, Body Talk Project Guide, and TED Talk Video: Body Positivity or Body Obsession? How to See More and Be More (Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k0e_j16C1m4)

Prep

Teacher Preparation

15 minutes

  • Review the Body Talk Lesson Plan, Body Talk Slide Deck, Body Talk Worksheet, and Body Talk Answer Key.
  • Ensure projector/screen and speakers are working for the TED Talk.
  • Copy the link to the TED Talk (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k0e_j16C1m4) for easy access.
  • Print or prepare digital copies of the Body Talk Worksheet for each student.

Step 1

Warm-up: What is 'Body Image'?

5 minutes

  • Display Slide 2 from the Body Talk Slide Deck.
  • Ask students: "What comes to mind when you hear 'body image'?" (Elicit responses and write key words on the board).
  • Introduce the concept of body image and its importance in our lives.
  • Introduce key vocabulary for the lesson.

Step 2

Pre-Watching: Vocabulary & Context

10 minutes

  • Display Slide 3 from the Body Talk Slide Deck with key vocabulary terms (e.g., 'body positivity,' 'body obsession,' 'self-esteem,' 'media influence,' 'perception,' 'diversity,' 'acceptance').
  • Briefly explain each term, providing simple definitions and examples relevant to EFL students.
  • Distribute the Body Talk Worksheet and instruct students to complete the "Before You Watch" section individually or in pairs. Discuss their predictions briefly.

Step 3

Watch the TED Talk

15 minutes

  • Display Slide 4 from the Body Talk Slide Deck and play the TED Talk: "Body Positivity or Body Obsession? How to See More and Be More" (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k0e_j16C1m4).
  • Instruct students to listen carefully and answer the questions in the "While You Watch" section of their Body Talk Worksheet.

Step 4

Post-Watching Discussion & Worksheet Review

10 minutes

  • Display Slide 5 from the Body Talk Slide Deck.
  • In small groups or as a class, discuss the "After You Watch" questions from the Body Talk Worksheet.
  • Encourage students to share their opinions and reflect on the speaker's message.
  • Review answers using the Body Talk Answer Key, facilitating a respectful conversation about diverse perspectives and promoting acceptance.

Step 5

Project Introduction: My Body, My Story

5 minutes

  • Display Slide 6 from the Body Talk Slide Deck.
  • Introduce the "My Body, My Story" project as outlined in the Body Talk Project Guide.
  • Explain that this project encourages creative expression and deeper reflection on body image and self-acceptance.
  • Briefly go over the project goals and deliverables, emphasizing collaboration and respect.

Step 6

Cool Down: One Word Reflection

5 minutes

  • Display Slide 7 from the Body Talk Slide Deck.
  • Ask students to write down one word that describes their main takeaway or feeling after the lesson.
  • Have a few students share their words and briefly explain why. This can also be collected as an exit ticket if preferred. Refer to the Body Talk Cool Down for the prompt.
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Slide Deck

Body Talk: See More, Be More?

Exploring Body Positivity vs. Body Obsession


Lesson Goal: To understand and discuss body image, self-perception, and media influence, while improving English listening and speaking skills.

Welcome students and introduce the lesson's main topic. Ask students what the title makes them think about.

What is 'Body Image'?

Think about these questions:

  • What comes to mind when you hear 'body image'?
  • How do people in our society talk about bodies?
  • Is body image important to you? Why or why not?

Prompt students to think about the phrase 'body image.' What does it mean to them? What are some feelings or ideas associated with it? Encourage open sharing and write down key words on the board.

Key Vocabulary

  • Body Positivity: A movement that encourages people to love and accept their bodies, regardless of size, shape, or appearance.
  • Body Obsession: An unhealthy preoccupation with one's physical appearance, often leading to negative self-perception and behaviors.
  • Self-esteem: Confidence in one's own worth or abilities; self-respect.
  • Media Influence: The impact that media (social media, TV, magazines) has on our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
  • Perception: The way in which something is regarded, understood, or interpreted.
  • Diversity: The practice or quality of including or involving people from a range of different social and ethnic backgrounds and of different sexes, sexual orientations, etc.
  • Acceptance: The action of consenting to receive or undertake something offered.

Introduce the key vocabulary words. Provide simple definitions and examples. Ensure students understand these terms as they will hear them in the TED Talk and use them in discussions. Distribute the Body Talk Worksheet and have them complete the 'Before You Watch' section.

Watch the TED Talk by Jessi Jean. As you watch, think about her main ideas and arguments. Pay attention to any new vocabulary.

Body Positivity or Body Obsession? How to See More and Be More

Explain that students will watch a TED Talk. Provide the link and ask them to focus on the speaker's main message and examples. Remind them to fill out the 'While You Watch' section of their Body Talk Worksheet.

After the Talk: Discuss & Reflect

Let's discuss the TED Talk.

  • What was the most surprising thing you heard?
  • What does Jessi Jean mean by 'seeing more and being more'?
  • How can we practice body acceptance in our daily lives?
  • How does this talk relate to your own experiences or observations?

Facilitate a class or small group discussion using the questions. Encourage students to share their thoughts and opinions. Guide them to discuss different perspectives respectfully. Use the Body Talk Answer Key to review worksheet answers.

Project: My Body, My Story

Now it's your turn to create!

Goal: To promote body acceptance and positive self-perception within our school or community.

Work with your classmates to design and develop a project that expresses your understanding of body image and celebrates diversity. Refer to the Body Talk Project Guide for more details!

Introduce the project. Explain that this is an opportunity for them to apply what they've learned creatively and collaboratively. Briefly explain the goals and expectations from the Body Talk Project Guide.

One Word Reflection

What is one word that describes your main takeaway or feeling after today's lesson on body image?


For the cool-down, ask students to reflect on the lesson with one word. Encourage a few to share their word and a brief reason why. This serves as a quick check for understanding and emotional reflection.

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Worksheet

Body Talk Worksheet: See More, Be More?

Name: ____________________________
Date: ____________________________

Part 1: Before You Watch

  1. What does the phrase "body image" mean to you? Write down three words or phrases that come to mind.


  2. What is "body positivity"? Have you heard this term before?


  3. What do you think "body obsession" might mean? How is it different from body positivity?


  4. Before watching the TED Talk, what do you hope to learn about body image and self-acceptance?


Part 2: While You Watch (TED Talk: Body Positivity or Body Obsession? How to See More and Be More by Jessi Jean)

Listen carefully and answer the following questions as you watch the video.

  1. What is one of the main problems Jessi Jean identifies with how society often talks about bodies?


  2. What is the difference between "seeing more" and "being more" according to Jessi Jean?


  3. Jessi Jean mentions a "thought diet." What does she mean by this, and why does she suggest it?


  4. What examples does Jessi Jean give of how media influences our body image?


  5. What is one practical step Jessi Jean suggests for improving our relationship with our bodies?


Part 3: After You Watch

  1. What was the most surprising or impactful idea from Jessi Jean's TED Talk for you? Why?





  2. How can the concepts of "body positivity" and "body obsession" impact a person's mental and emotional health?





  3. Do you think the messages in the TED Talk are relevant to people in your country or culture? Explain.





  4. How can we, as individuals and as a community, promote a more respectful and accepting attitude towards diverse body types?





  5. What is one personal action you could take to practice more self-acceptance or encourage it in others?





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lenny

Answer Key

Body Talk Answer Key: See More, Be More?

This answer key provides suggested responses for the Body Talk Worksheet. For open-ended questions, student answers may vary but should demonstrate understanding of the lesson's core concepts.

Part 1: Before You Watch

  1. What does the phrase "body image" mean to you? Write down three words or phrases that come to mind.

    • Thought Process: Students should reflect on their personal understanding. Look for words related to appearance, self-perception, how one sees their body, feelings about one's physical self.
    • Sample Answer: Appearance, how I feel about my body, confidence, comparison to others.

  2. What is "body positivity"? Have you heard this term before?

    • Thought Process: Students should define the term based on prior knowledge or the vocabulary introduced.
    • Sample Answer: Body positivity is about accepting and loving your body no matter its shape, size, or appearance. Yes, I have seen it on social media.

  3. What do you think "body obsession" might mean? How is it different from body positivity?

    • Thought Process: Students should contrast it with body positivity. Focus on the 'unhealthy preoccupation' aspect.
    • Sample Answer: Body obsession is when someone thinks too much about their appearance in a negative or unhealthy way, like always wanting to change something. Body positivity is about acceptance, while obsession is about constantly trying to achieve an 'ideal.'

  4. Before watching the TED Talk, what do you hope to learn about body image and self-acceptance?

    • Thought Process: This question encourages students to set a purpose for watching. Answers will vary.
    • Sample Answer: I hope to learn how to feel better about myself and how to stop comparing myself to others. I also want to understand how media affects us.

Part 2: While You Watch (TED Talk: Body Positivity or Body Obsession? How to See More and Be More by Jessi Jean)

  1. What is one of the main problems Jessi Jean identifies with how society often talks about bodies?

    • Thought Process: Jessi Jean highlights the constant focus on what bodies look like, rather than what they do or who the person is.
    • Correct Answer: Society often focuses only on the external appearance of bodies and tries to fix them, rather than appreciating them for what they can do or the person inside.

  2. What is the difference between "seeing more" and "being more" according to Jessi Jean?

    • Thought Process: She emphasizes shifting from external validation to internal worth.
    • Correct Answer: "Seeing more" refers to focusing on external flaws and constantly striving for a perceived ideal body. "Being more" is about recognizing your inherent worth, embracing who you are beyond your appearance, and living a fuller life.

  3. Jessi Jean mentions a "thought diet." What does she mean by this, and why does she suggest it?

    • Thought Process: This refers to controlling negative self-talk.
    • Correct Answer: A "thought diet" means intentionally choosing positive thoughts about your body and self, and stopping negative self-talk. She suggests it because our thoughts significantly impact how we feel about ourselves and our bodies.

  4. What examples does Jessi Jean give of how media influences our body image?

    • Thought Process: She talks about idealized images and the constant stream of comparisons.
    • Correct Answer: She discusses how social media, advertisements, and traditional media often present unrealistic body ideals, leading to constant comparison and feelings of inadequacy.

  5. What is one practical step Jessi Jean suggests for improving our relationship with our bodies?

    • Thought Process: She provides several, such as practicing gratitude for what the body does, unfollowing accounts that make you feel bad, and focusing on internal worth.
    • Correct Answer: (Any of the following or similar): Unfollowing social media accounts that make you feel bad about yourself; focusing on gratitude for what your body can do; consciously choosing thoughts that serve you; celebrating your unique strengths.

Part 3: After You Watch

  1. What was the most surprising or impactful idea from Jessi Jean's TED Talk for you? Why?

    • Thought Process: Student answers will be personal. Encourage them to articulate why a particular idea resonated.
    • Sample Answer: The idea of a "thought diet" was surprising because I never thought about controlling my thoughts about my body in the same way I think about food. It made me realize how much negative self-talk I have.

  2. How can the concepts of "body positivity" and "body obsession" impact a person's mental and emotional health?

    • Thought Process: Students should connect these concepts to mental well-being (e.g., confidence, anxiety, self-worth).
    • Sample Answer: Body positivity can improve mental health by increasing self-esteem, reducing anxiety about appearance, and fostering a healthier relationship with oneself. Body obsession, however, can lead to anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and constant dissatisfaction because the ideal is often unattainable.

  3. Do you think the messages in the TED Talk are relevant to people in your country or culture? Explain.

    • Thought Process: This prompts cultural connection. Students should consider how global media and local cultural norms interact.
    • Sample Answer: Yes, I think they are very relevant. Even in my country, social media shows many perfect bodies, and there's pressure to look a certain way. This can make people feel bad about their own bodies.

  4. How can we, as individuals and as a community, promote a more respectful and accepting attitude towards diverse body types?

    • Thought Process: Students should brainstorm actionable strategies at both personal and community levels.
    • Sample Answer: As individuals, we can stop making critical comments about others' bodies and our own. As a community, we can promote diverse body types in media, educate people about body acceptance, and create safe spaces for all body shapes and sizes.

  5. What is one personal action you could take to practice more self-acceptance or encourage it in others?

    • Thought Process: This is a call to personal action.
    • Sample Answer: I could try to focus on what my body allows me to do, like playing sports or walking, instead of just how it looks. I can also try to tell my friends that they are beautiful just the way they are.
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lenny

Project Guide

Project Guide: My Body, My Story

Project Title: My Body, My Story: A Celebration of Self

Objective: To creatively express your understanding of body positivity, challenge body obsession, and promote self-acceptance and respect for diverse body images within our school or community.

Materials:

  • Poster board, large paper, or digital presentation tools (e.g., Google Slides, Canva)
  • Art supplies (markers, colored pencils, magazines for collage, paint, etc.)
  • Access to computers/internet for research (optional)
  • Your personal reflections from the Body Talk Worksheet

Timeline: (This project can be adapted for 1-3 class sessions or as a take-home assignment)

  • Day 1 (In-class introduction - 5 minutes): Understand the project. (Covered in today's lesson)
  • Day 2 (Planning & Brainstorming - 20-30 minutes): Work in groups to brainstorm ideas, assign roles, and outline your project.
  • Day 3+ (Creation & Development): Dedicated time in class or at home to create the project.

Instructions:

  1. Form Groups: Work in groups of 3-4 students.
  2. Brainstorm: As a group, discuss what body positivity and body obsession mean to you now. How can you share a positive message about body image with others? What kind of project would be impactful for your peers?
  3. Choose Your Format: Decide on one of the following project formats (or suggest another creative idea to your teacher):
    • "Body Positive Campaign" Poster Series: Design a series of 2-3 posters that visually convey messages of self-acceptance, diversity, and challenging beauty standards. Include short, powerful slogans and images.
    • "Beyond the Surface" Short Video/PSA: Create a short public service announcement (1-2 minutes) or video that explores the themes of the TED Talk. This could include interviews, short skits, or a powerful narrative.
    • "Mirror, Mirror: A Journal of Self-Love" Booklet: Design a small booklet with prompts, affirmations, and short articles that encourage healthy self-reflection and appreciation of one's body and inner qualities.
    • "Diversity in Art" Photo Collage/Digital Art Piece: Create a visual art piece that celebrates the diversity of human bodies, using images, drawings, or digital tools. Include captions or short texts explaining the message.
  4. Develop Content: Based on your chosen format, create content that:
    • Reflects key ideas from Jessi Jean's TED Talk.
    • Promotes respect and acceptance for all body types.
    • Challenges unrealistic beauty standards.
    • Encourages healthy self-esteem and self-perception.
    • Uses clear and appropriate English.
  5. Refine and Present: Ensure your project is well-organized, creative, and clearly communicates your message. Be prepared to briefly present your project to the class.

Deliverables:

  • A completed group project in your chosen format (poster series, video, booklet, or art piece).
  • A short (3-5 minute) presentation to the class explaining your project, its message, and how it addresses the themes of body image and self-acceptance.
  • Each student should contribute actively to the group effort.

Success Criteria:

Your project will be evaluated on:

  • Clarity of message in promoting body positivity and challenging body obsession.
  • Creativity and originality of your chosen format and content.
  • Demonstration of understanding of the TED Talk's themes.
  • Effective use of English to convey ideas.
  • Collaboration and teamwork within your group.
  • Overall impact and presentation quality.
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Cool Down

Body Talk Cool Down: One Word Reflection

Instructions: Think about today's lesson, the TED Talk, and our discussion on body positivity and body obsession.

In one word, what is your main takeaway, feeling, or a word that summarizes your learning from today's class?







Bonus: Briefly explain why you chose that word. (Optional)







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