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: 7
Grade code: 1.2.1.LI.3
Strand code: 2
Sub-strand code: 1
Content standard code: 1.2.1.CS.2
Indicator code: 1.2.1.LI.3
Theme: PROCESSES FOR LIVING
Subtheme: ESSENTIALS FOR SURVIVAL
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.
This lesson moves beyond the basic biology of reproduction to address the real-life challenges and responsibilities that come with it, especially during adolescence. In Ghana, issues like teenage pregnancy and Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) are not just health problems; they affect education, family life, and future opportunities. Understanding these issues is an essential part of survival and thriving as a young adult. This lesson will equip learners with the knowledge and skills to make informed decisions, promote healthy behaviours, and support their peers responsibly. We will focus on practical application and problem-solving, rather than just memorising facts.
This section provides the core content needed for the lesson. It should be delivered using interactive methods like question-and-answer, short discussions, and visual aids (charts, videos if available). A. What is Adolescent Reproductive Health (ARH)? Definition: Adolescent Reproductive Health is not just about avoiding disease or pregnancy. It is a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being in all matters relating to the reproductive system. For adolescents (typically ages 10-19), this means: Having accurate information about their bodies, puberty, and reproduction. Being able to protect themselves from unwanted pregnancy and STIs. Having access to safe and supportive health services. Living in an environment that allows them to make responsible decisions without fear or stigma. B. Key Challenge 1: Teenage (Adolescent) Pregnancy Definition: Teenage pregnancy refers to pregnancy in a female under the age of 20. Causes in the Ghanaian Context: This is a complex issue with multiple interconnected causes. Lack of Comprehensive Knowledge: Relying on friends or social media for information can lead to myths and misinformation about contraception and fertility. Peer Pressure: The desire to fit in or pressure from a partner can lead to risky sexual behaviour. Poverty and Economic Hardship: Some adolescents may engage in transactional sex for basic needs ("sika duro"). Social and Cultural Norms: In some communities, early marriage is still practised. Also, there is often a lack of open communication about sex between parents and children. Lack of Access to Contraceptives: Even when they have information, young people may feel too shy or afraid to seek family planning services. Consequences: Health Risks: The bodies of young teenagers are not fully developed for childbirth, leading to higher risks of complications like fistula, anaemia, and maternal mortality. The babies are often premature or have low birth weight. Educational Disruption: Teenage mothers are very likely to drop out of school, limiting their future career and economic prospects. This is a major challenge to the goals of Free SHS. Social Stigma and Isolation: Young mothers often face rejection from family, friends, and their community, leading to mental health challenges like depression. Economic Hardship: Raising a child is expensive. A young parent who has dropped out of school will find it difficult to provide for themselves and their child, perpetuating a cycle of poverty. C. Key Challenge 2: Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) Definition: STIs are infections passed from one person to another through sexual contact (vaginal, anal, or oral sex). Some can also be transmitted through infected blood or from mother to child during birth. Common Examples in Ghana: HIV/AIDS: A viral infection that attacks the immune system. While manageable with medication (antiretrovirals), there is no cure. Gonorrhoea & Chlamydia: Bacterial infections that can cause discharge, pain during urination, and if untreated, can lead to infertility in both males and females. Syphilis: A bacterial infection that can cause sores and rashes, and can damage the brain, nerves, and other organs if left untreated for years. Human Papillomavirus (HPV): A very common virus. Some strains can cause genital warts, while others can lead to cancers, most notably cervical cancer in women. Prevention - The ABC Method: This is the standard public health message. A - Abstinence: The only 100% effective way to prevent STIs and pregnancy is to abstain from sexual intercourse. B - Be Faithful: For those who are sexually active, being in a long-term, mutually monogamous relationship with a partner who has been tested and is uninfected reduces risk. C - Condomise: Correct and consistent use of condoms significantly reduces the risk of transmitting most STIs, including HIV. D. Key Challenge 3: Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM) Definition: MHM means that females are able to use clean menstrual management materials (like sanitary pads or clean cloths) to absorb or collect blood, that can be changed in privacy as often as necessary for the duration of menstruation, using soap and water for washing the body as required, and having access to facilities to dispose of used materials. Challenges Faced by School Girls: Period Poverty: The high cost of sanitary pads means many girls cannot afford them, forcing them to use unhygienic materials (e.g., old rags, paper) or miss school during their period. Lack of Facilities: Many schools lack clean, private toilets with water and bins for disposal, making it difficult for girls to manage their periods hygienically and with dignity. Stigma and Taboos: Menstruation is often seen as "unclean" or something to be hidden. This shame prevents girls from asking for help and makes them feel embarrassed. Boys sometimes tease girls, worsening the situation. The Role of Everyone, Especially Males (As per NaCCA Exemplar): Empathy and Support: Understand that menstruation is a normal biological process, not a weakness or sickness. Avoid teasing or shaming. Advocacy: Boys can be powerful allies. They can speak up against teasing, advocate for better toilet facilities in the school, and support fundraising efforts for sanitary pads for girls in need. Shared Responsibility: A school environment that is safe and supportive for menstruating girls is a better environment for *all* students. When girls don't have to miss school, everyone benefits. Participating in events like Menstrual Hygiene Day (May 28th) is a responsibility for all genders.
Guided Practice (With Solutions)
These scenarios are designed for a "Talk for Learning" approach. Present them to the class or small groups and facilitate a discussion before revealing the solution.
Question 1: Scenario Analysis Your close friend, Ama, who is also in SHS 1, has missed her period for the second month in a row. She looks worried all the time and her grades are dropping. She confides in you that she might be pregnant but is too scared to tell anyone. What are three responsible steps you can take to help her?