Health & Welfare Reading
Unit 6 – Tronc Commun Science
Introduction to Health Literacy
Reading about health requires understanding medical terminology, preventive measures, and healthcare systems. This unit develops skills to interpret health-related texts including:
Text Types
• Medical brochures
• Research abstracts
• Health advisories
Skills
• Scanning for key info
• Understanding charts
• Critical evaluation
Vocabulary
• Symptoms
• Treatments
• Prevention
1. Reading Passage: “The Importance of Vaccination”
Understanding Immunization
Vaccination is one of modern medicine’s greatest achievements. By introducing weakened or inactive parts of a disease-causing organism into the body, vaccines train the immune system to recognize and combat pathogens.
Key Benefits:
- Prevents 2-3 million deaths/year (WHO)
- Controls outbreaks (polio, measles)
- Reduces antibiotic resistance
Common Vaccines:
- MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
- Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
- COVID-19 vaccines
Vaccination Schedule Example
| Age | Vaccine | Doses |
|---|---|---|
| Birth | Hepatitis B | 1st dose |
| 2 months | DTaP, Polio | 1st dose |
| 12-15 months | MMR | 1st dose |
Reading Comprehension Questions
- What is the primary function of vaccines?
- List two benefits of vaccination mentioned in the text:
1.
2. - Which vaccine is given at birth according to the schedule?
2. Infographic: “Hand Hygiene Saves Lives”
Proper Handwashing Steps
Wet hands with clean water
Apply soap
Scrub for 20 seconds
Rinse thoroughly
Dry with clean towel
Key Statistics:
- Reduces diarrheal diseases by 40%
- Cuts respiratory infections by 20%
- Prevents 1 million deaths/year
Infographic Analysis Questions
1. What is the recommended duration for scrubbing hands? seconds
2. List two infections reduced by proper hand hygiene:
3. In what situation should you definitely wash your hands?
3. Authentic Material: Medicine Label
PAIN RELIEF TABLETS
Active Ingredient: Ibuprofen 200mg
Uses: Reduces fever and relieves minor aches/pains
Directions:
- Adults: 1-2 tablets every 4-6 hours
- Do not exceed 6 tablets in 24 hours
- Take with food or milk
Warnings:
- Do not use if allergic to ibuprofen
- Consult doctor if pregnant
- May cause stomach bleeding
KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN
Label Interpretation
1. What is the maximum daily dose? tablets
2. When should you avoid this medicine?
3. How can you reduce stomach irritation?
4. Who should consult a doctor before use?
4. Health Vocabulary Builder
Symptoms
- Fever: High body temperature
- Cough: Expelling air suddenly
- Rash: Skin irritation
- Fatigue: Extreme tiredness
Treatments
- Vaccine: Disease prevention
- Antibiotic: Kills bacteria
- Therapy: Treatment program
- Surgery: Medical operation
Professionals
- Physician: Medical doctor
- Surgeon: Performs operations
- Pharmacist: Medication expert
- Dentist: Oral health
Vocabulary Practice
Match each term with its definition:
