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I. Developing Scientific Literacy

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IV. Developing Scientific Problem Solving

V. Developing Scientific Research Skills

VI. Resources for Teaching Science

Health Science Standards

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Standard 8

Standard 8 The student will understand his or her developing sexuality, the benefits of abstinence from sexual activity, and how to be respectful of the sexuality of others. Although this standard is targeted for grades six through twelve, individual districts may choose to implement this standard earlier in accord with community needs and values.

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Middle School

Students in middle school who meet this standard will be able to:

  • Understand personal responsibility and the consequences of sexual activity.
  • Identify appropriate ways to show affection.
  • Recognize that abstinence from sexual activity is the healthiest choice for young people.
  • Recognize situations that place them at risk of participating in sexual activity.
  • Identify methods of contraception.
  • Understand how to be respectful of the sexuality of others, including the personal and social characteristics of sexual harassment.

The following tasks and assignments might be used to determine whether the student is meeting the standard:

  • Students will demonstrate responsibility and caretaking by participating in a flour sack activity or an egg baby activity.
  • Students will participate in a presentation by teen parents and analyze what they have heard. Health Education Standards
  • Students will role-play simulations to demonstrate responses to and skills to avoid negative social influences and peer pressure situations to become sexually active.
  • Students will develop a risk continuum from low to high risk to recognize potential risk situations dealing with sexuality.
  • Students will identify and evaluate potential situations involving sexual harassment, recognizing the potentially diverse interpretations of actions.

High School

Students in high school who meet this standard will be able to:

  • Students in high school who meet this standard will be able to:
  • Recognize that abstinence is the only totally effective method of contraception.
  • Analyze other methods of contraception.
  • Explain human sexuality and analyze the effects of social and cultural influences.
  • Identify influences and pressures to become sexually active.
  • Apply communication/refusal skills as they relate to responsible decision making.
  • Understand how to be respectful of the sexuality of others, including personal and social characteristics of sexual harassment.

The following tasks and assignments might be used to determine whether the student is meeting the standard:

  • Students will list the advantages and disadvantages of each type of birth control, recognizing that abstinence is the only totally effective method of contraception.
  • Students will role-play assertive refusal skills.
  • Students will analyze unhealthy relationships/situations as they relate to sexual activity, abuse, harassment, and violence.
  • Students will research community agencies and hotlines that can be utilized in case of need.
  • Students will evaluate situations involving sexual harassment and recognize the broad interpretations of actions.