Content Area: Health and Physical Education

 

Index: 2.1A Grade 8 CPI 2

 

Standard: 2.1 - Wellness

 

Strand: A - Personal Health

 

Cumulative Progress Indicator: 2 -  The student will evaluate the impact of health behaviors and choices on personal and family wellness.

 

Grade: 8

 

Sample Activities:

 

·        WATCHING WHAT YOU EAT - Ask students: “Could you tell if a friend had an eating disorder? How would you know? If you suspected that this friend had such a problem, what would you do?” Explain that eating disorders have received a lot of publicity because so many famous people have come forward with the problem. Explain that not only the rich and famous suffer from these problems. Put two headings on the chalkboard: “Normal Eating Behavior” and “Eating Disorder Behavior.” Brainstorm ideas for both categories and discuss them. Show pictures of models and celebrities that have come forward with the disease. Divide the class into small groups and give each group a case study where the individual may be exhibiting signs of an eating disorder or unhealthy eating pattern (see samples below). Each group discusses the situation, lists the possible symptoms and contributing factors, and offers resources for assistance. Groups share with the entire class.

 

      SAMPLE CASE STUDIES
Case Study #1: Dale
Dale has gained 20 pounds in the last 18 months but has also grown 4 inches. Dale feels fat and is constantly trying to lose weight. Dale skips breakfast and lunch and only eats salad for dinner.

Case study #2: Pat
Pat can’t get enough exercise. Pat works out 4-5 hours every day and judges success by the scale. Pat is trying to maintain 110 pounds. Each time the scale shows more, Pat adds more exercise to the daily routine.

Case Study #3: Sean
Sean doesn’t eat meat, milk products, or eggs. Sean eats mostly fresh vegetables and fruits.

Case Study #4: Leslie
Leslie won’t eat very much for days and then “pigs out” on junk food. Leslie has been seen vomiting in the school lavatory. When questioned, Leslie says, “I’m fine.”

Variation: Students investigate national organizations, agencies, and other resources for information on eating disorders. Students contact the agencies for information on treatment programs and compile information for a resource guide or poster.

Variation: Invite a panel consisting of two or three individuals with an eating disorder, a psychologist, and a nutrition specialist to discuss issues regarding the increased incidence of eating disorders and how to develop a positive body image.

Variation: Students write a story about a young person with an eating disorder. Include in the conclusion ways the young person should deal with the issues that contributed to the condition.

Variation: Students investigate the potential long-term health effects of unhealthy adolescent eating patterns (e.g., osteoporosis, cancer, obesity).