Topic: Understanding the Impact of Words
Reading Level: High school
Learning Goals:
- Understand why some words can be hurtful or outdated
- Learn respectful alternatives to describe people with disabilities
- Practice reading comprehension, vocabulary, and self-expression
🧠 Part 1: Warm-Up Discussion (Optional – with teacher or parent)
Question:
Have you ever heard someone use a word that made someone else feel bad—even if they didn’t mean to be mean?
- How did it feel?
- Why do you think words matter?
📖 Part 2: Reading (Excerpted and Simplified)
Read the short version of the blog post below. You can read it by yourself or with help:
When Words Hurt: Why “Invalid” is Not a Good Word
Words are powerful. They can make people feel good—or bad. A long time ago, people used the word “invalid” to describe someone who was very sick or disabled. But now we know this word is not okay to use.
The word “invalid” sounds like “not valid” or “not worthy.” That’s not true about people who are sick or disabled. Everyone is valuable, no matter what.
Instead of saying “invalid,” we should use kind, respectful words like:
- “A person who is bedridden”
- “A person with a disability”
- “A person who needs help because of health problems”
It’s important to use language that shows respect. Even if someone used this word in the past, we can learn to do better today.
📝 Part 3: Vocabulary Match
Match the words with their meanings:
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| 1. Powerful | A. Fair and caring toward others |
| 2. Invalid | B. Old and not used anymore |
| 3. Respectful | C. Strong or important |
| 4. Outdated | D. A word that can mean “not worthy” |
| 5. Disability | E. A condition that makes it harder to do some things |
🧩 Part 4: Comprehension Questions
Answer in 1–2 complete sentences or talk about it with someone.
- Why is the word “invalid” hurtful to people who are sick or disabled?
- What are some better words to use instead of “invalid”?
- Do you think it’s important to change the words we use if they hurt someone? Why or why not?
✏️ Part 5: Express Yourself – Writing Prompt
Choose one:
- Option A: Write about a time when you heard someone use a hurtful word. What happened? How did it make you feel? What would you say to that person now?
- Option B: Imagine you are talking to someone who doesn’t know “invalid” is a hurtful word. How would you explain it to them in a kind way?
🎨 Part 6: Creative Extension (Optional)
Activity: Design a small poster with the message:
“Words Matter. Use Respectful Language.”
Include one of the good examples from the reading and draw a picture if you like.
🧩 Support Tips for Educators or Parents:
- Allow breaks and provide a quiet space if needed.
- Encourage use of assistive tools like text-to-speech or visual cues.
- Let the student write answers or say them out loud—whatever works best for their learning style.
- Celebrate effort, not just “right” answers.
Burns Tutoring 
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