Sexual Maturity - Dealing with Physical Changes

Part 2 - Activities & teaching resources Sexual Maturity - Dealing with Physical Changes Subject Area Curriculum Focus Unit Year Level Time Requirement Topics Covered Objectives Activities Health and Physical Education See curriculum focus tables Puberty Year 7 2 x 50 minute sessions Names and functions of the sexual organs Menstruation Erections & Ejaculation Hygiene Attitudes to sex - choosing an opinion To enable students to: identify the sexual organs and understand their functions understand the processes of menstruation and ejaculation anticipate the impact of these changes and how to manage them recognise the increased need for regular hygiene practices during puberty become familiar with basic hygiene strategies analyse reasons for different ways of thinking about sex identify and examine their own point of view share and compare their point of view with others 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. The Inside Story - Labelling the sexual organs That time of the month - Menstruation student worksheet The Amazing Willy - Erections & Ejaculation student worksheet Keep it Clean, it s Hygiene - Student Worksheet What s your point of view? - Discussion questions for groups Year 7 Page 1

Part 2 - Activity 1 The Inside Story Blackline masters are provided for all asterixed requirements * Outline Students label diagrams of the sexual organs with the correct term from a list of names and functions provided. Objectives To identify the sexual organs and understand their functions Resources Class set Male and Female Inside Story Student worksheets* Male and Female Inside Story - Answers* to be used either as a class set or as an overhead transparency Overhead projector (optional) Activity Provide each student with a copy of the Male and Female Inside Story student worksheet* Ask students to read the list of terms and their explanations and see if they can put the right label to the right part Read through the explanations of the terms and explain the correct placement of the labels and get students to correct their work Show overheads or give out class room sets of the Male and Female Inside Story - Answers* for assistance Year 7 Page 2

Part 2 - Activity 1 The inside story for girls Label this diagram with the correct terms for different parts of the reproductive system using the list below. back front Uterus Anus Vagina Ovary Bladder Urethra pear-shaped organ with thick muscular walls. This is where a baby grows solid waste from the bowel exits through this opening stretchy tube from the uterus to the outside of the body where the ova (eggs) are stored organ that stores urine urine exits the body through this tube Year 7 Page 3 Worksheet

Part 2 - Activity 1 The inside story for girls Label this diagram with the correct terms for different parts of the reproductive system using the list below. front back Labia Vaginal opening Mons Urinary opening Hymen Clitoris two thick folds of skin on either side of the vaginal opening (majora) and two thinner, more delicate folds of skin within these (minora) external opening to the vagina pad of fat over the pubic bone that gets fleshier during puberty end of the urethra where urine exits the body thin flexible membrane that partially covers the vaginal opening a small organ with many sensitive nerve endings that plays an important role in sexual excitement Year 7 Page 4 Worksheet

Part 2 - Activity 1 The inside story for girls Label this diagram with the correct terms for different parts of the reproductive system using the list below. Fallopian tube Cervix Labia Uterus Ovary Vagina Hymen the ovum (egg) travels from the ovaries to the uterus along these tubes where the uterus connects with the vagina (also called the neck of the uterus) two thick folds of skin on either side of the vaginal opening (majora) and two thinner, more delicate folds of skin within these (minora) pear-shaped organ with thick muscular walls. This is where a baby grows where the ova (eggs) are stored stretchy tube from the uterus to the outside of the body thin flexible membrane that partially covers the vaginal opening Year 7 Page 5 Worksheet

Part 2 - Activity 1 The inside story for guys Label this diagram with the correct terms for different parts of the reproductive system using the list below. back front Urethra Scrotum Vas deferens Penis Anus Testicle Bladder sperm and urine exit the body through this tube in the penis a pouch of skin that contains the testes tubes that carry sperm from the testes to the urethra organ through which urine and sperm pass out of the body solid waste from the bowel exits through this opening organ that produces sperm organ that stores urine Year 7 Page 6 Worksheet

Part 2 - Activity 1 The inside story for girls Answers back front uterus ovary anus bladder vagina urethra Uterus Anus Vagina Ovary Bladder Urethra pear-shaped organ with thick muscular walls. This is where a baby grows solid waste from the bowel exits through this opening stretchy tube from the uterus to the outside of the body where the ova (eggs) are stored organ that stores urine urine exits the body through this tube Year 7 Page 7 Overhead

Part 2 - Activity 1 The inside story for girls Answers clitoris front mons labia urinary opening vaginal opening hymen back Labia Vaginal opening Mons Urinary opening Hymen Clitoris two thick folds of skin on either side of the vaginal opening (majora) and two thinner, more delicate folds of skin within these (minora) external opening to the vagina pad of fat over the pubic bone that gets fleshier during puberty end of the urethra where urine exits the body thin flexible membrane that partially covers the vaginal opening a small organ with many sensitive nerve endings that plays an important role in sexual excitement Year 7 Page 8 Overhead

Part 2 - Activity 1 The inside story for girls Answers fallopian tube uterus cervix labia ovary vagina hymen Fallopian tube Cervix Labia Uterus Ovary Vagina Hymen the ovum (egg) travels from the ovaries to the uterus along these tubes where the uterus connects with the vagina (also called the neck of the uterus) two thick folds of skin on either side of the vaginal opening (majora) and two thinner, more delicate folds of skin within these (minora) pear-shaped organ with thick muscular walls. This is where a baby grows where the ova (eggs) are stored stretchy tube from the uterus to the outside of the body thin flexible membrane that partially covers the vaginal opening Year 7 Page 9 Overhead

Part 2 - Activity 1 The inside story for guys Answers back front bladder anus vans deferens urethra testicle penis scrotum Urethra Scrotum Vas deferens Penis Anus Testicle Bladder sperm and urine exit the body through this tube in the penis a pouch of skin that contains the testes tubes that carry sperm from the testes to the urethra organ through which urine and sperm pass out of the body solid waste from the bowel exits through this opening organ that produces sperm organ that stores urine Year 7 Page 10 Overhead

Part 2 - Activity 2 That time of the month Blackline masters are provided for all asterixed requirements* Outline Students fill in a worksheet using the handout information on menstruation provided. Objectives To understand the process of menstruation. To anticipate the impact of this change and how to manage it. Resources Class set That time of the month handout*, student worksheet* and answers* (optional) Activity Provide each student with a copy of the That time of the month handout* and student worksheet* Read through the information handout and ask students to fill in the student worksheet* Go through the answers* and get students to correct their work. If students are storing their work in a folder or workbook a copy of the answers could be provided for revision purposes. Year 7 Page 11

Part 2 - Activity 2 That time of the month What is menstruation? Part of puberty for girls is getting a period. This means menstrual fluids coming out of the vagina. This happens at regular intervals as the uterus sheds its bloodrich lining. It shows that their bodies are maturing and becoming capable of reproduction. How long does it last? A period lasts for 2-7 days. The average menstrual cycle is 28 days but anytime between 21-35 days is normal. It can take quite a while for a girl s cycle to become regular. The days of a cycle are counted from the first day of menstrual flow until the first day menstrual flow begins again. Keeping a calendar can show what a girl s personal cycle is like and help keep track of when the next period might be due. In this example, a girl who usually has a 28 day cycle uses a calendar to mark the days of her period. She then counts forward to work out that her next period will probably start on Tuesday July the 30th. JULY S M T W T F S 1 2 period starts day 1 3 day 2 4 day 3 5 day 4 6 period ends day 5 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 day 6 day 7 day 8 day 9 day 10 day 11 day 12 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 day 13 day 14 day 15 day 16 day 17 day 18 day 19 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 day 20 day 21 day 22 day 23 day 24 day 25 day 26 28 day 27 29 day 28 30 next period might start 31 Year 7 Page 12

Part 2 - Activity 2 What is the menstrual fluid like? On some days the flow may be heavier and bright red and on other days it might be just a brown trickle. Less than half a cup of fluid is lost in total. What does a girl do about it? There are many different products available to absorb menstrual fluid. They come in different sizes depending on how heavy the flow is. Pads Pads and liners are designed to be worn outside the body and have an adhesive strip which helps them to stick to underwear. Pads come in many sizes. The size relates to length, rather than the thickness. There are regular, super, light and overnight pads. Super pads are longer than regular pads, while overnight pads are extra long for protection when lying down and super absorbent. Pads are also available with or without wings. The wings help to hold the pad in place. Overnight it is best to wear a pad because tampons should be changed frequently. Liners Liners provide the ideal way to feel secure and fresh every day. They are incredibly thin so they can be worn anytime or if a period is expected to start soon. Liners can be worn at the start and end of a period when only a small amount of protection is needed. Liners are also available in different lengths and shapes. Tampons Tampons are designed to be worn inside the vagina and are held in place by the vaginal muscles. They can be very handy for activities like swimming. Menstrual fluid passes through an opening in the hymen that is usually large enough to admit a tampon. As the vagina has the ability to stretch and regain its shape most girls can learn to insert a tampon. Year 7 Page 13

Part 2 - Activity 2 Tampons are available in different absorbencies - super, regular and mini. It is best to use the lightest absorbency to suit a flow. Tampons are also available in slim which have the same absorbency as other tampons, but are easier to insert and withdraw. Tampons should be changed every 3-4 hours and should not be worn overnight. Toxic Shock Syndrome It is important to wash your hands before and after inserting a tampon. Change them every 3-4 hours or more often if the flow is heavy. They should not be left in for more than 8 hours and it is best to use a pad overnight. Taking these precautions should reduce the risk of a very rare but serious disease called Toxic Shock Syndrome. It s hard to tell when the first period might start so it s a good idea to be prepared just in case. A clean pair of undies and some pads can be kept in a make-up bag but if a period starts unexpectedly just ask a friend or adult at school for help. Why does it happen? During a menstrual cycle one of the ovaries releases an egg (ovum) into the Fallopian tube. If a sperm fertilises the egg it will implant into the lining of the uterus which has thickened for this purpose and grow into a baby. If the egg is not fertilised the lining of the uterus isn t needed and comes away as menstrual fluid. A new egg then starts to mature and the lining builds up again as the uterus prepares for the next possibility of fertilisation. How does having a period affect a girl s life? When you have a period you can do all of the things you normally do. For many girls, dealing with a period simply means being prepared with a suitable sanitary product to absorb the fluid. Unfortunately, sometimes having a period also means coping with other symptoms. Some girls may get cramps - pain in the abdomen which can vary from a mild ache to severe discomfort causing nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, headache, Year 7 Page 14

Part 2 - Activity 2 dizziness and nervousness. This can vary from cycle to cycle. This will only affect some girls and you may want to talk to your doctor about it. Sometimes girls can also get PMT (pre-menstrual tension) which may occur up to a week before the period starts. It includes symptoms such as irritability, depression, tiredness, constipation or diarrhoea, weight gain, pimples and tender breasts. There are a number of useful treatments and medications available to help with period problems. It s a good idea to consult a doctor for advice. Year 7 Page 15

Part 2 - Activity 2 That time of the month Answer the following questions. 1. 2. Sally has started having periods. What does this mean? Sally s period started on September 3rd and lasted for 5 days. Sally s period started again on September 27th. How long is her menstrual cycle? Is this normal? 3. 4. If Sally s next menstrual cycle is the same, when might her next period start? Sally s period started unexpectedly at school, what could she do? 5. Sally has never had sex. Can she use a tampon? 6. Sally has been training for Sports Day but she s got her period. Can she still compete? Why/Why not? 7. Why might Sally need a little more consideration from her friends and family when she s getting her period? Year 7 Page 16 Worksheet

Part 2 - Activity 2 That time of the month Answers 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Menstrual fluids coming out of her vagina when the uterus sheds its lining. 25 days. Yes, a normal cycle can be between 21-35 days. October 21st. Ask a friend or adult for help. Yes, a girl can use tampons once her periods start regardless of whether or not she has had sex as the opening in the hymen is usually large enough to insert a tampon and the vagina is able to stretch and regain its shape. 6. Yes, having a period doesn t need to stop her competing unless she is also feeling unwell. 7. She might be feeling a bit depressed or irritable. Year 7 Page 17 Handout

Part 2 - Activity 3 The Amazing Willy - Erections and Ejaculations Blackline masters are provided for all asterixed requirements * Outline Students fill in a worksheet using the handout information on erections and ejaculation provided. Objectives To understand the process of ejaculation. To anticipate the impact of this change and how to manage it. Resources Class set The Amazing Willy handout*, student worksheet* and answers* (optional). Activity Provide each student with a copy of the The Amazing Willy handout* and student worksheet* Read through the handout and ask students to fill in the worksheet. Go through the answers and get students to correct their work. If students are storing their work in a folder or workbook a copy of the answers could be provided for revision purposes. Year 7 Page 18

Part 2 - Activity 3 The Amazing Willy - Erections and Ejaculation Part of puberty for a boy is the growth and development of their penis and testicles and the beginning of sperm production. Once sperm are being produced they can be released from the body during an ejaculation. What is an erection? An erection happens when more blood than usual flows into the spongy tissue around the penis. The muscles at the base of the penis tighten and stop the extra blood from flowing out. The penis gets bigger and stiffer and sticks out from the body. Erections happen throughout a boy s life but during puberty they can start to happen more often and last longer. Sometimes erections develop slowly and sometimes a penis can get quite hard in just a few seconds. When do they happen? Erections can happen for all sorts of reasons. Stroking or touching the penis can cause an erection, or the friction of clothes rubbing on the penis. Thinking sexy thoughts, feeling good, feeling excited or feeling nervous can also cause an erection. Erections can also happen for no particular reason and at any time. These are called spontaneous erections which can sometimes be embarrassing. If this happens it can help to concentrate on something really boring. How do they stop? Eventually the penis will go soft and floppy again. This can happen by itself in a few seconds or take a number of minutes. Ejaculating and/or having an orgasm will also cause the penis to relax. What is ejaculation? This happens when muscles in the genital area contract and semen is pumped out of the body through the opening in the tip of the penis. This happens for the first time during puberty once sperm are being produced. Ejaculation can happen when the penis is being Year 7 Page 19

Part 2 - Activity 3 stimulated through masturbation or sexual intercourse. Ejaculation can also happen when a boy is asleep which is called having a wet dream. Not all boys have wet dreams, though many do. What is masturbation? Masturbation means touching or rubbing the sexual organs for sexual pleasure. Masturbation is not harmful. Some people, both male and female masturbate and some do not - either is normal. What is semen? About a teaspoonful or two of white, creamy fluid called semen comes out of the penis during an ejaculation. It is made up of sperm and fluids released by the prostate gland and the seminal vesicles. What are sperm? Sperm are microscopic cells that have rounded bodies and tiny tails and look a bit like tadpoles. Millions of sperm are made in the testicles each day. Babies are made when a sperm fertilises a female s egg. Year 7 Page 20 Handout

Part 2 - Activity 3 The Amazing Willy - Erections and Ejaculation Answer True or False. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. Erections happen for the first time during puberty. Erections only happen if the penis is touched. An erection never happens unless a boy wants it to. An erection can go down without ejaculation. Ejaculation happens for the first time during puberty. Not all boys will have wet dreams. 1/2 a cup of fluid is released during ejaculation. Semen contains urine. Year 7 Page 21 Worksheet

Part 2 - Activity 3 The Amazing Willy - Erections & Ejaculations Answers 1. 2. False. Boys and men have erections throughout their lives, even as small babies. False. Erections can also happen because of thoughts and feelings and sometimes they just happen for no reason in particular. 3. False. Spontaneous erections can happen by themselves at any time which can be embarrassing sometimes. 4. True. Eventually an erection will go away by itself though it can take a while before it is completely soft again. 5. 6. True. Ejaculations don t start until the body starts producing sperm during puberty. True. Every boy is different. Some boys never have a wet dream, some may only ever have a couple, some might have them a few times a week. A boy may have his first ejaculation during a wet dream or it may happen during masturbation. Either way the first time can be a bit of a surprise. 7. 8. False. About a teaspoonful or two comes out during ejaculation False. When a male is about to ejaculate a valve at the bottom of the bladder closes so that urine can t get into the urethra. Year 7 Page 22 Handout

Part 2 - Activity 4 Keep it Clean, it s Hygiene Blackline masters are provided for all asterixed requirements * Outline Students fill in a worksheet using the handout information on hygiene provided. Objectives To recognise the increased need for regular hygiene practices during puberty. To become familiar with basic hygiene strategies. Resources Class set Keep it Clean, it s Hygiene handout*, student worksheet* and answers* (optional) Activity Provide each student with a copy of the Keep it Clean, it s Hygiene handout* and student worksheet*. Read through the handout and ask students to fill in the worksheet. Go through the answers and get students to correct their work. If students are storing their work in a folder or workbook a copy of the answers could be provided for revision purposes. Ask students to think about and record a response to the following questions: What have you learnt about the physical changes of puberty and how to deal with them? What information did you find most useful or interesting? Why? How do you feel about the changes happening to your body? How could you use the knowledge you have gained to support other students (including those of the opposite sex) as they deal with the changes of puberty? Year 7 Page 23

Keep it Clean it s Hygiene Part 2 - Activity 4 During puberty the sweat and oil glands respond to the new hormone levels and become more active. This means you will need to start being more careful about keeping clean. Sweat glands There are two types of sweat glands. Eccrine sweat glands exist all over your body and produce sweat to cool you down by evaporation. As these become more active you might notice that your feet and palms sweat more. Apocrine sweat glands are found in the groin and under the arms and only start working during puberty. The sweat they release has a musky smell. Oil glands Oil glands exist all over the body but are especially numerous on the face neck, shoulders, upper chest and back. They start to release greater amounts of an oily substance called sebum onto the surface of the skin. Sebum keeps the skin soft and pliable. Dealing with sweat Once sweat from the apocrine glands is exposed to air bacteria that live on the skin begin to breed causing body odour (B.O). Regular washing with water and a mild soap will keep this under control. If you like you can also use products designed to help. Antiperspirants reduce the amount of sweat produced by the body. Deodorants are designed to cover the odour with a perfume. As long as you wash regularly it isn t necessary to use these products unless the odour or amount of perspiration bothers you. Genital hygiene for girls The vagina is self-cleaning and it is not necessary to clean inside. The folds of skin around the external genitals need to be washed regularly with water. A mild soap can be used but this can sometimes irritate sensitive skin and it is best not to use deodorants in this area. It is normal to have some discharge or wetness from the vagina as long as it Year 7 Page 24

Part 2 - Activity 4 isn t smelly or itchy. After going to the toilet it s a good idea to always wipe from front to back to stop germs from the anus getting into the vagina. Genital hygiene for boys The genital area should be washed regularly with water. A mild soap can be used but this can sometimes irritate sensitive skin and it is best not to use deodorants in this area. A white substance called smegma is secreted from glands around the head of the penis which needs to be washed away so that it does not become smelly or cause an irritation. Not circumcised boys will need to gently draw back the foreskin to wash around this area. Dealing with oil Skin An oily substance called sebum travels out from ducts in the oil glands and exits onto the surface of the skin through tiny openings called pores. During puberty the oil glands start producing a lot of sebum and the pores can get blocked causing pimples, blackheads and whiteheads. These spots are called acne. It helps to keep the skin clean by washing once or twice a day with a mild soap or cleanser. This helps break down and remove the excess sebum, dirt and dead skin cells. It s best not to pick at spots as they can get infected and cause scarring. Most teenagers will get pimples at some stage during puberty. Mild cases of acne can usually be cleared up by daily washing and using medicated acne lotions or creams. In cases where acne is more severe it can be useful to see a doctor who can prescribe other treatments that can help. Hair Extra oil is also secreted in the skin on your head. This means the hair needs washing more often as dust and dead skin cells combine with the oil and stick to the hair making it look greasy. Washing the hair with soap or shampoo breaks down the oil and dirt which can then be rinsed away. Many people also use a conditioner after shampooing to help settle the hair and control tangles. Year 7 Page 25 Handout

Part 2 - Activity 4 Keep it Clean, it s Hygiene Questions 1. Why do the sweat and oil glands get more active during puberty? 2. In what areas might you notice a new smell during puberty? 3. What is the substance released by the oil glands called? What is it for? 4. 5. 6. 7. What causes B.O? What is acne? What makes hair greasy? What can you do to keep the extra sweat and oil your body makes during puberty under control? Year 7 Page 26 Worksheet

Part 2 - Activity 4 Keep it Clean, it s Hygiene Answers 1. 2. They become more active in response to the new hormone levels of puberty. In the groin and under the arms (because of the apocrine glands that don t become active until puberty). 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Sebum. It keeps the skin soft and pliable. Bacteria that breed when sweat from the apocrine glands is exposed to air. Spots that occur when the pores in the skin get blocked. Oil secreted by the oil glands which mixes with dust and dead skin cells. Wash regularly with soap and water. Year 7 Page 27 Handout

Part 2 - Activity 5 What s your point of view? Blackline masters are provided for all asterixed requirements* Outline In small groups students discuss statements and questions provided examining different attitudes to sex. Objective To analyse reasons for different ways of thinking about sex. To identify and examine their own point of view. To share and compare their point of view with others. Resources Class set What s your point of view? handout* Pre-prepared materials for forming random groupings using icebreaker activities* Butcher s paper (or students can use a workbook) Textas (or students can use their own pens, pencils etc) Whiteboard and whiteboard markers or blackboard and chalk Activity Get students into random groups of 3-4 using icebreaker activities*. Provide each group with a copy of the What s your point of view?* discussion questions, butchers paper and textas. Ask students to allocate a scribe and a reporter and then discuss whether they agree or disagree with the statements provided and identify as many answers as they can think of to the questions. All members of a group don t have to agree but should discuss and record reasons for their different points of view. Get reporters from various groups to present some of their responses to the rest of the class. Ask students to consider whether most students agreed/disagreed with the same statements. What did groups actually think? Was it the same as what they anticipated other students would think? Having heard answers from all the groups did the groups end up being right about what most students think? Year 7 Page 28

Part 2 - Activity 5 Ask students to think about and record a response to the following questions: How much do you think you are influenced by the values and attitudes of: a) films and T.V b) your friends c) your family d) your own personal views? Do you always know when you are being influenced? Do you think these are good sources of influence? Why/ Why not? Do you feel comfortable having a different point of view from others? Why/Why not? If you felt pressured to do something that didn t feel right to you, what might help you stand up for yourself? How could you make sure you don t pressure others to make decisions that don t support their own values? Year 7 Page 29

Part 2 - Activity 5 What s your point of view? In groups discuss the following statements. Choose a scribe to jot down whether people in your group agree or disagree with them and why, your group s answers to the questions and any other ideas your group comes up with. Choose a reporter to present some of your ideas to the class. The Media and Sex T.V, films & music videos make it seem like everyone s having sex and you should too. T.V, films & music videos support the idea that you shouldn t rush into having sex. Which statement is most accurate? Can you think of examples? Why do you think the media uses sexy images? How much do you think the media influence young people s attitudes? Year 7 Page 30 Handout

Part 2 - Activity 5 Other Students Which statements seem like the ones most students would agree with? Which statements do people in your group agree with? You should experiment with sex because everyone else is. You haven t really grown up until you ve experienced sex. There s something wrong with you if you haven t had sex. It s good to take your time and wait until you really feel ready. You shouldn t have sex unless you re really in love. You shouldn t have sex until you ve known each other for a while Do you think what students say and do depends on what they think other people s attitudes are? Why do people care so much what other people think? Do you think it s hard to stick to your own point of view, even if it seems like no one else agrees with you? Year 7 Page 31 Handout

Part 2 - Activity 5 Your Group What do people in your group think about the following statements - you don t have to agree, just jot down the reasons people give for different points of view. Nowadays nobody waits until they re married to have sex. Adults don t understand that things are different now to when they were young so there s no point going to a grown-up for advice. Getting an STD or getting pregnant is unlikely when you first start having sex. Only girls need to worry about pregnancy. It doesn t matter if two people are having sex for different reasons - no one ever died of a broken heart. Once you ve got someone really excited it s not fair to say you want to stop. Once a male is really excited it s bad for their health if they don t get to go all the way. Assignment and homework suggestions Design an ad to sell a hygiene product to teenagers Research changing attitudes to menstruation (The Museum of Menstruation website is very handy at www.mum.org/director.htm) Year 7 Page 32 Handout