In the year 2000, The Healthy Sexuality Program at the Region of Peel partnered with the Peel District School Board (PDSB) to improve the health of its schools. Superintendents and administrators were asked to identify health issues that were most important in their schools. Their thoughts were published in the Survey Report entitled, “Creating a Comprehensive School Health Partnership” (2001).
Since the new Ontario Curriculum Guidelines have been implemented, Healthy Sexuality has become a mandatory part of the Physical and Health Education Program. Classroom teachers expressed frustration with the lack of quality educational resources available to them. In response to these concerns, Peel Health developed a unit of study related to the subject of puberty.
The “Changes In Me” resource is designed to simplify the task of teaching grade 4, 5 and 6 students about puberty. Research on the physical, emotional and social changes associated with puberty has been completed for you. The lessons include detailed plans, student handouts, visual-aids, student-centred activities, evaluation tools, a video, overheads and further resources.
The 4MAT curriculum development model was used in creating this teaching unit to ensure that the resource accommodates all students and will complement initiatives on differentiated learning.
The 4MAT model consists of teaching strategies that address the ranges of learning modes including concrete experience, reflective observation, abstract conceptualisation and active experimentation.
The “Changes In Me” educational unit offers an integrated approach to sexuality; one that places priority on accurate information concerning puberty, and also encourages students to form healthy relationships and to hone their decision-making skills.
Should you wish to provide feedback about your experiences in using this teaching unit, or if you require further information, please feel free to contact Peel Health at 905-799-7700. Any suggestions that would assist in future unit creation would be greatly appreciated.
