Lesson Notes By Weeks and Term v4 - SHS 1
ESSENTIALS FOR SURVIVAL
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ESSENTIALS FOR SURVIVAL
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Subject: General Science
Class: SHS 1
Term: 1st Term
Week: 5
Grade code: 1.2.1.LI.2
Strand code: 2
Sub-strand code: 1
Content standard code: 1.2.1.CS.2
Indicator code: 1.2.1.LI.2
Theme: PROCESSES FOR LIVING
Subtheme: ESSENTIALS FOR SURVIVAL
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The menstrual cycle is a natural and vital process in the life of a female, marking the reproductive years. In Ghana, there are many myths and a lot of misinformation surrounding menstruation, which can lead to stigma, poor hygiene, and health complications. This lesson will demystify the menstrual cycle by explaining its scientific basis. By understanding this process, both male and female learners will be empowered to make informed decisions about their reproductive health, practice good hygiene, and support others in their community. This knowledge is essential for personal health, family planning, and fostering a respectful and knowledgeable society.
A. What is the Menstrual Cycle?
The menstrual cycle is the monthly series of changes a woman's body goes through in preparation for the possibility of pregnancy. It is a vital sign of reproductive health. Menstruation (or a "period") is the shedding of the lining of the uterus (womb). This is the most visible part of the cycle. The length of a menstrual cycle is counted from the first day of one period to the first day of the next period. The average cycle length is 28 days, but it is normal for it to range from 21 to 35 days. B. Key Organs and Hormones Involved Organs: Ovaries: Two small organs that store and release eggs (ova). They also produce the main female hormones. Uterus (Womb): A muscular organ where a fertilised egg implants and grows into a baby. Its lining, the endometrium, thickens and sheds during the cycle. Fallopian Tubes: Tubes that connect the ovaries to the uterus. Fertilisation usually happens here. Hormones (Chemical Messengers): Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH): Produced by the pituitary gland in the brain. It tells the ovaries to prepare an egg for release. Luteinizing Hormone (LH): Also from the pituitary gland. A sudden surge in LH triggers the release of the egg from the ovary (ovulation). Oestrogen: Produced by the ovaries. It causes the lining of the uterus to thicken and prepare for a potential pregnancy. Progesterone: Also produced by the ovaries (after ovulation). It helps to maintain the thickened uterine lining. C. The Four Phases of the Menstrual Cycle (Based on a 28-day model)
Phase 1: Menstruation Phase (Day 1-5) What happens? The cycle begins on the first day of bleeding. The thickened lining of the uterus (endometrium) breaks down and is discharged through the vagina. This is the period. Why? Levels of oestrogen and progesterone are very low. Common Experience: Menstrual cramps, which are caused by the uterus contracting to shed its lining.
Phase 2: Follicular Phase (Day 1-13) What happens? This phase overlaps with menstruation and continues until ovulation. The pituitary gland releases FSH. FSH stimulates a follicle (a small sac containing an egg) in one of the ovaries to grow and mature. The growing follicle produces oestrogen, which causes the uterine lining (endometrium) to start rebuilding and thickening. Goal: To mature an egg and prepare the uterus.