When covering important topics, it is essential for all students to understand common terminology so that everyone is on the same page with content. When students define words in their own terms using visuals, it helps students get their perspectives across and retain information better. It is very possible to create visuals without depicting the act of purging itself. Creating educational scenes rather than inappropriate, triggering scenes is important for maintaining a safe environment for all students.
Have the students choose five of the terms below. Students will create a spider map defining and illustrating vocabulary words for disordered eating.. Usually students will pick the most popular three (anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating) because they are familiar with these terms and it may be easier for them to visualize. Asking them to pick five will force them to learn through discovery.
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Student Instructions
Demonstrate your understanding of eating disorder terminology by creating a visual vocabulary board.
Start by setting clear ground rules and expectations for respectful, supportive conversations. Creating a safe space encourages students to share and learn without fear of judgment or discomfort.
Provide a way for students to ask questions anonymously, like a question box or digital form. This approach allows students to express concerns or confusion without embarrassment or stigma.
Present age-appropriate, hypothetical situations related to disordered eating vocabulary. Encourage students to apply new terms in context, deepening understanding and making learning practical.
Ask students to write a brief reflection on what they learned and how it affects their perspective. Journaling helps connect vocabulary to personal growth and empathy for others.
Share information about trusted school counselors or hotlines related to disordered eating. Making support visible normalizes seeking help and shows care for student well-being.
A visual vocabulary board for disordered eating terms is an educational tool where students define key vocabulary using images and their own words. This helps students understand and remember important concepts related to eating disorders in a safe, engaging way.
To teach eating disorder vocabulary safely, focus on educational scenes rather than graphic or triggering images. Encourage students to use symbols, positive visuals, or abstract representations to define terms, ensuring a supportive and respectful classroom environment.
Key vocabulary words for eating disorders include anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, body dysmorphia, diabulimia, orthorexia, pica, body image, self esteem, and coping. These terms help students build a comprehensive understanding of the topic.
The best way for students to illustrate eating disorder vocabulary is to use appropriate visuals such as symbols, positive scenes, or photos that convey the meaning without being explicit or triggering. Tools like Photos for Class or drawing abstract representations work well.
Having students define vocabulary in their own words helps them internalize terms, express their understanding, and retain information better. It also promotes active learning and allows teachers to assess student comprehension effectively.