KS3: Sexually Transmitted Infections
In this lesson plan, a classroom-based activity is used to demonstrate how easily STIs can be transmitted. Using chlamydia as an example, this lesson helps students to understand how quickly STIs can spread and the potential consequences of infection.
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Learning objectives
- Understand how sexually transmitted infections (STIs) spread, the importance of protection, the risks of asymptomatic infections, and the role of effective communication in safer sexual health practices.
Background Information
STIs are infections contracted by having close sexual contact with someone who is already infected. Some STIs can be treated and cured with antibiotic medicine whereas others cannot. Many symptoms of incurable STIs can be treated to make them easier to live with. There are over 25 different STIs.
Anyone can contract an STI. Most people who contract an STI do not know that the person they had sexual contact with was infected. When discussing sexual health with students, it is important everyone feels comfortable, safe, and heard. Suggested ground rules are provided in the teacher guidance accompanying the key stage 3 pack.
In this lesson plan, students explore how quickly sexually transmitted infections spread and how this can be prevented through the use of condoms. By looking at chlamydia, students discuss how the infection works, what the symptoms can be, and how the infection can be prevented.
Activities
Main activity:- Spreading Infections Test Tube Experiment
- If Chlamydia Could Talk Group Work
- Guest Speaker
- STI Quiz
Curriculum links
Curriculum Key Elements
- Personal Health and Moral Character
Curriculum Skills
- Communication
- Managing Information
- Thinking
- Problem Solving and Decision-Making
- Working with others
Curriculum Areas of Learning
- Learning for Life and Work (Personal Development: Personal Health and Relationships)
- Science and Technology (Science: Organisms and Health)