Students in Grade 6 receive approximately 270-280 minutes of instruction divided over three 90-minute lessons (elementary) or four 70-minute lessons (middle). Information is presented using a combination of class discussion, scientific diagrams, written information, interactive activities, and short video clips. If a student misses any lessons or parents/caregivers have opted to deliver the content through alternative means, please see the Parent Information Letter and the At-Home Learning Document linked below.
Grade 6 Parent Information Letter
Grade 6 At-Home Learning Document
Lesson 1:
Puberty and hygiene: Students review puberty and personal hygiene. The social and emotional changes of puberty are discussed, including: how relationships with friends can change, increased conflict with caregivers or siblings, the desire for more independence and privacy, self-consciousness, experiencing crushes, desire to fit in with peers, and increased mood swings.
Biologically male reproductive systems: Discussion includes testosterone production, sperm production, circumcised/intact foreskin, erections, and ejaculations/wet dreams. Internal and external reproductive parts and their function are discussed.
Lesson 2:
Biologically female reproductive systems: Internal and external reproductive parts and their functions are discussed. Discussion includes details about ovaries, the process of ovulation, and estrogen production and its effects on the body. Students are provided a detailed explanation of menstruation, including why periods happen, how often they happen, cramps, period tracking, what to expect, and how to prepare. Suggestions are given on how to create a period kit. Instructors demonstrate how to use pantyliners, pads, tampons, and period underwear.
Lesson 3:
Pregnancy: Students learn about fertilization, conception, implantation, and the stages of pregnancy. Discussions include the ways a person can become a parent through sexual intercourse, adoption, and fertility methods. Students learn about the first, second, and third trimester as well as the general process of childbirth (natural delivery vs. Caesarean section).
Consent and personal safety: Sexual activity is described as a grown-up activity that requires specific consent. Possible positive/negative outcomes of sexual relationships are discussed such as emotional connection, pleasure, STIs, and pregnancy. Condoms are discussed as a method that grown-ups might use to prevent pregnancy and/or STIs. Pictures of condoms are shown to promote recognition of a poorly disposed condom (ex. on ground). Condoms are not demonstrated at this grade level. We discuss what students should do if they were to see a condom or needle left in public places.
Anonymous questions: Students ask questions about topics they are still unclear about or curious about. Students do not need to ask questions but can make a comment instead. The teacher uses their professional experience to answer questions in an age-appropriate manner from a health based and safety perspective. Students are encouraged to continue these conversations at home with caregivers.