Content Area: Health and Physical Education

 

Index: 2.4B Grade 6 CPI 4

 

Standard: 2.4 - Human Relationships & Sexuality

 

Strand: B - Sexuality

 

Cumulative Progress Indicator:  4 - The student will describe behaviors that place one at risk for HIV/AIDS, STDs, or unintended pregnancy.

 

Grade: 6

 

Sample Activities:

 

·        REDUCING THE RISK OF HIV - In small groups, students brainstorm ways that HIV can be transmitted and create a chart or web. For each method of transmission, students list three ways to reduce one’s risk of exposure to HIV. A sample chart appears below. Groups share their charts/webs and discuss.

 

 

·        YOU CAN'T JUDGE A BOOK BY ITS COVER - For this activity, you need two apples: one fresh and bright red, and one several days old and shriveled. Before class begins, inject the shiny, red apple with red food coloring. Begin by asking the students: “How can you tell if a person is infected with a disease like HIV or hepatitis? Can you tell from their eyes? Their skin? Their walk or strength?” After fielding numerous answers, ask the students
to observe the shiny new apple you just bought for your lunch. Show the apple you had around for a few days that is shriveled and bruised. Ask the students which apple looks healthy (obviously, they will answer the one that is shiny and red). Cut open the apple to show the red food coloring. Explain that appearances don’t always speak the truth. Explain that many diseases are silent—that is symptoms don’t always show up right away or are not obvious. Review the spread of HIV and hepatitis B via needle transmission. Students research and write a brief report on diseases commonly spread by injecting drug use.

Variation: Correlate this lesson with a lesson on simple first aid techniques. Emphasize universal precautions while allowing students to practice simple first aid (e.g., stopping bleeding). Students research why healthcare workers wear personal protective equipment, such as gloves and masks.