Lesson Notes By Weeks and Term v4 - Basic 5

Lesson Video

This page supports the lesson note with a companion video and a short classroom-ready summary.

For class groups and homework, share this lesson page so learners also get the summary, objectives, and full lesson context.

Performance objectives

• Explain what the environment is
• Describe how human activities impact the environment
• Identify ways to protect the environment
• Discuss the importance of sustainable practices

Lesson summary

This lesson introduces learners to common diseases found in our communities in Ghana. We will explore what makes us sick and learn about specific illnesses like Malaria, Cholera, and the Common Cold. Understanding how these diseases are caused, what their signs are, and how to prevent them is very important. It helps us to stay healthy, strong, and active so we don't miss school or playing with our friends. By taking simple steps, we can protect ourselves, our families, and our friends from getting sick.

Lesson notes

What is a Disease? A disease is a sickness or illness that affects the body and prevents it from working properly. When you have a disease, you feel unwell and cannot do your usual activities like playing, learning, or eating properly. What Causes Diseases? (Introducing Germs) Many common diseases are caused by tiny living things called germs (or microorganisms). These germs are so small that we cannot see them with our eyes alone; we would need a microscope. They can enter our bodies through the air we breathe, the food we eat, the water we drink, or through bites from insects like mosquitoes.

The main types of germs that cause diseases are: Bacteria: Tiny organisms that can cause diseases like Cholera and Typhoid. Viruses: Even smaller than bacteria, they cause diseases like the Common Cold, Flu, and Measles. Parasites: Living things that live on or inside another living thing (a host). The parasite that causes Malaria is an example.

Let's look at three common diseases in Ghana in detail.

Disease 1: Malaria