Student Worksheet

Healthwashing And Weasel Words - Activity Instructions

Ever heard someone say “they weaselled out of that cleverly”? Weasels may be getting a bad wrap here, but in this activity, you’ll work out how the experts cleverly use ‘weasel words’ to get themselves out of trouble. Then you’ll get to try it. Just don’t get caught!

Part A: What Are ‘Weasel Words?’

Step 1.

Do you know what it means to ‘weasel out’ of something? It means to avoid doing something in a dishonest way, or by cleverly persuading/manipulating someone. With that in mind, what do you think weasel words might mean? Write your ideas below.

Step 2.

Weasel words are often used by politicians and advertisers. Look at the paragraphs below and underline some examples where the speaker/writer is saying things that they don’t really have to back up with evidence. The first is underlined for you.

Need some help? Look for:

Words that aren’t measurable (for example, ‘better’ - how much better is not said)
Talk about the best case scenario (can, have been known to, as many as)

Example	Why are those words ‘weasel words’?
This shampoo will fight dandruff!	‘fight’ sounds like a strong claim, but it really isn’t. The shampoo might make a very small impact, but could still be considered to be ‘fighting’ it.
This scooter is very efficient and better for the environment than a skateboard.
I promise to fight poverty in our state.
I have lots of friends who are teachers and I know that many of them agree with me.

Step 3.

Go back to the table and explain why the words are ‘weasel words’.

Part B: How Weasel-y Can You Be?

Step 1.

Read the article: ‘Healthwashing – 6 weasel words food companies use to fool you’ and take notes on the six examples of weasel words described.

Step 2.

Pick one of these unhealthy/treat foods and write an advertisement that ‘healthwashes’ it by using weasel words. If you want to see an example, read the one below.

Banana cake
Pizza
Chocolate cake

Example: This all natural, organic burger is high in nutrients, antioxidants and fibre. Think calcium-rich sauce, organic beef patties and nutritious lettuce. Your family will love this burger - and it is healthy as can be!

Your turn:

Taking It Further

Go look in your pantry or at any junk mail you have received (or you could try watching the news!). Look for examples of weasel words.

Healthwashing And Weasel Words (home learning)

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