Lesson Plan
Language and Body Image
Empower 8th graders to explore and understand the impact of language on body image, equipping them with tools to use words positively.
This lesson helps students realize how language shapes self-perception and promotes a supportive environment, while enhancing self-esteem and communication skills.
Audience
8th Grade Class
Time
50 minutes
Approach
Interactive discussion, group activities, and reflective practice.
Prep
Preparation
10 minutes
- Review the Language and Body Image lesson plan for background understanding.
- Ensure that the Power of Words Presentation, Positive Language Practice, and Impact of Words Discussion materials are ready and accessible.
- Familiarize yourself with discussion prompts and group activity instructions to facilitate smooth transitions.
Step 1
Introduction and Context Setting
10 minutes
- Welcome students and introduce the lesson’s focus on how language influences body image.
- Define key terms such as 'body image', 'self-perception', and 'language impact'.
- Present an overview using the Power of Words Presentation.
Step 2
Interactive Group Activity
25 minutes
- Divide students into small groups and assign them the Positive Language Practice activity.
- Ask each group to generate positive language examples and uplifting phrases.
- Facilitate a class discussion, prompting students to share their reflections using the Impact of Words Discussion.
- Encourage peer feedback and collaborative reflection on the importance of positive language.
Step 3
Conclusion and Reflection
5 minutes
- Summarize the key takeaways regarding the influence of language on self-image.
- Ask students for final reflections on how they can apply positive language in their daily interactions.
- Reinforce the idea of empowering themselves and others through thoughtful words.
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Slide Deck
The Power of Words
Welcome to our lesson on how language influences body image and self-perception.
Introduce the lesson by welcoming students and explaining the overall aim of the session. Emphasize that the power of words significantly shapes our body image and self-perception.
Defining Key Terms
• Body Image: How we perceive our physical appearance.
• Self-Perception: The view we hold of ourselves.
• Language Impact: How words can influence our thoughts and feelings.
Define key terms to ensure all students understand the concepts involved. Highlight the definitions and provide simple examples.
Impact of Language
Positive language uplifts and encourages. Negative language can hurt self-esteem and distort body image.
Discuss with the class how language can be positive or negative and share everyday examples. Ask students to think about a time when words made a difference.
Examples & Prompts
Examples:
- 'You are amazing!'
- 'Your uniqueness makes you special.'
Discussion Prompt: Share a time when someone's words made you feel better or worse.
Use this slide to engage students by sharing examples and prompting them to think of their own. Encourage them to reflect on personal experiences.
Group Activity Instructions
Divide into small groups. Use the prompt: 'What are some words or phrases that make you feel empowered?' and compile your list. Prepare to share your findings with the class.
Provide clear instructions for the group activity. Remind students to compile a list of positive phrases and discuss their impact.
Conclusion & Reflection
Key Takeaways:
• Language shapes self-image.
• Positive words foster a supportive environment.
Reflection: How can you use positive language in daily life?
Summarize the key takeaways and re-emphasize the importance of using thoughtful, positive language. Invite final reflections from the students.
Activity
Positive Language Practice Activity
Overview
In this activity, you'll work with a group to generate examples of positive language that help uplift individuals and promote self-confidence. This exercise encourages you to think critically about how the words we choose can make a big impact on our self-image and the way we treat others.
Instructions
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Form Small Groups: Divide into groups of 3-4 students.
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Brainstorm Session: In your group, discuss and jot down words and phrases that you believe convey encouragement, kindness, and empowerment. Think about phrases you use or have heard that made you or someone else feel really good.
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Compile a List: Create a list of at least 10 positive phrases or words as a team. Examples could include phrases like "You are capable," "Believe in yourself," or "Your uniqueness is your strength."
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Discussion: Each group will choose their top 5 positive phrases, share them with the class, and explain why they feel these words are impactful.
Reflection Questions
- How did it feel to focus on positive language?
- Were there any surprises in the phrases that resonated most with you?
- How can you incorporate these words into your daily life to create a more supportive environment?
Group Reflection: After everyone has shared, discuss as a class how positive language can create a more encouraging environment for everyone.
Write down your group's top positive words on a sheet of paper and be ready to present them.
Teacher Tip: Encourage students to think about moments when positive words made a difference in their lives or the lives of others. This reflection can lead to a very enriching discussion about empathy and self-esteem.
Discussion
Impact of Words Discussion
Overview
In this discussion, you will have the opportunity to share your thoughts, experiences, and reflections on how language influences your self-image and the environment around you. Consider real-life examples and personal stories as you explore the impact of both positive and negative words.
Discussion Guidelines
- Be Respectful: Listen to others and share your thoughts kindly.
- Speak Honestly: Reflect on your personal experiences with language and body image.
- Provide Examples: When possible, share specific instances where words have had a profound effect on you or someone you know.
Discussion Prompts
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Personal Experience Sharing:
- Think about a time when someone’s words made you feel truly empowered or, conversely, when negative language affected your self-esteem. What happened, and how did it impact you?
- Think about a time when someone’s words made you feel truly empowered or, conversely, when negative language affected your self-esteem. What happened, and how did it impact you?
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Understanding Language Impact:
- How do you think language shapes the way you see yourself? Can you give examples of words or phrases that have influenced your self-image?
- How do you think language shapes the way you see yourself? Can you give examples of words or phrases that have influenced your self-image?
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Creating a Positive Environment:
- In what ways can you and your peers help create a supportive and positive environment through your everyday language?
- In what ways can you and your peers help create a supportive and positive environment through your everyday language?
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Reflection on the Activity:
- After participating in the Positive Language Practice activity, how do you feel about the power of words now? Has your perspective changed?
- After participating in the Positive Language Practice activity, how do you feel about the power of words now? Has your perspective changed?
Follow-Up Points
- Group Reflection: Consider summarizing the key points from your discussion as a group. What common themes did you notice in each other’s experiences?
- Personal Commitment: Think about one way you can apply the lessons learned from this discussion to promote positivity in your life.
- Future Dialogue: How might this discussion influence the way you communicate about body image and self-perception in the future?
Let’s take some time to reflect and share openly. Your insights are valuable in creating a supportive classroom community.