Life Begins – 5th Grade (go back)
Synopsis
The miracle of life
and the functions of the reproductive anatomy are important topics for
pre-adolescents. As physical and developmental changes occur, they need to be
equipped with the facts about their reproductive organs and the creation of
human life.
Students review the body systems and are introduced to the
reproductive system as a unique system that does not function until the onset of
puberty. The male and female reproductive systems are discussed in depth. Male
and female reproductive anatomy are discussed, as well as the process of
menstruation.
Fertilization, implantation, and embryology are discussed
with state of the art photos. We follow the development of the fetus throughout
pregnancy until birth. During each stage of development of the fetus, students
identify physical growth that is unique to that stage. Labor and delivery are
briefly discussed.
Program Goals:
GOAL #1:
Students increase knowledge about human anatomy, the changes which occur
during puberty, and the reasons for these changes, and the significant events of
pregnancy.
GOAL #2:
Students will develop the attitude that the changes of puberty are a
normal part of human development, and pregnancy and prenatal development are a
normal part of the human life cycle.
GOAL #3: Students will feel
comfortable discussing the topics of human development, pregnancy, and prenatal
development with trusted adults.
State learning standards addressed:
22.A.3a Identify and describe ways to reduce health risks common to
adolescents
22.A.3b Identify how positive health practices and relevant health care can
help reduce health risk
23.A.3 Explain how body systems interact with each other
23.B.3 Explain the effects of health-related actions upon body systems
23.C.3 Describe the relationships among physical, mental and social health
factors during adolescence
23.C.2a
Identify physical, mental, social and cultural factors affecting growth and
development of children (e.g., nutrition, self-esteem, family and illness).
23.C.2b
Identify stages in
growth and development (e.g., stages in the life cycle from infancy to old age).
12.A.2a Describe simple life cycles of plants and animals and the
similarities and differences in their offspring
12.A.3a
Explain how cells function as “building blocks” of organisms and describe the
requirements for cells to live.
12.A.2b
Categorize features as either inherited or learned (e.g., flower color or eye
color is inherited; language is learned).
12.A.4b
Describe the structures and organization of cells and tissues that underlie
basic life functions including nutrition, respiration, cellular transport,
biosynthesis and reproduction.
12.A.3c
Compare and contrast how different forms and structures reflect different
functions.