## Lesson Plan: Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
### Biology – Senior Secondary 1
#### Lesson Duration:
- 60 minutes
#### Learning Objectives:
By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:
1. Define what Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) are.
2. Identify common types of STIs and their symptoms.
3. Understand the modes of transmission for STIs.
4. Discuss preventive measures for STIs.
5. Recognize the importance of early detection and treatment of STIs.
6. Appreciate the social and health impacts of STIs.
#### Required Materials:
- Whiteboard and markers
- Projector and laptop (for visuals and videos)
- Handouts with key information on STIs
- Charts/Diagrams of the human reproductive system
- A short, educational video on STIs (5-10 minutes)
- Worksheets for group activities
#### Lesson Outline:
1. **Introduction (10 minutes)**
- Greet the students and take attendance.
- Briefly introduce the day's topic: Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs).
- Ask students what they know about STIs to gauge pre-existing knowledge.
- Write down key points on the whiteboard as students share their thoughts.
2. **Presentation/Instruction (20 minutes)**
- **Definition of STIs:**
- Explain what STIs are, emphasizing that they are infections passed from one person to another through sexual contact.
- Discuss why it's important to be informed about STIs.
- **Common Types of STIs and Their Symptoms:**
- Use a PowerPoint presentation or handouts to introduce various types of STIs (e.g., Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Syphilis, HIV/AIDS, Herpes, HPV).
- Highlight the symptoms of each infection.
- **Modes of Transmission:**
- Explain how STIs are spread – through vaginal, anal, and oral sex, and in some cases, through skin-to-skin contact.
- Discuss that some STIs can also be transmitted from mother to child during childbirth or breastfeeding.
3. **Interactive Activity (15 minutes)**
- Divide the class into small groups and provide them with scenarios related to STIs.
- Each group will discuss their scenario and come up with solutions or preventive strategies.
- Reconvene as a class and have each group share their findings.
4. **Preventive Measures (10 minutes)**
- Discuss different ways to prevent STIs:
- Abstinence
- Condom use
- Regular STI screenings
- Mutual monogamy
- Vaccinations (e.g., HPV vaccine)
- Emphasize the importance of communication and education about STIs.
5. **Short Educational Video (5 minutes)**
- Show a brief, informative video on STIs to reinforce the discussed topics.
6. **Q&A and Summary (5 minutes)**
- Allow time for students to ask questions and provide clear, concise answers.
- Summarize the key points of the lesson.
- Hand out worksheets with a summary of the lesson and additional resources.
7. **Homework Assignment**
- Assign students a brief research project on one specific STI. They should prepare a one-page report detailing:
- The STI’s symptoms, causes, and effects.
- Methods of prevention and treatment.
- Social and health impacts on individuals and communities.
#### Evaluation:
- Participation in group activities.
- Quality of answers during the Q&A session.
- Completion and understanding demonstrated in the homework assignment.
#### Notes for Teacher:
- Approaching the topic with sensitivity and care is crucial given its personal nature.
- Encourage an open, judgment-free environment to ensure students feel comfortable discussing the topic.
- Be prepared to offer additional support or resources for students who might have personal concerns or questions.