ADVOCATES FOR YOUTH

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Lesson Plan from Guide to Implementing TAP (Teens for AIDS Prevention): A Peer Education Program to Prevent HIV/STD Infection

Introduction to Sexuality

Purpose: To introduce the concept of sexuality and provide an opportunity to identify messages about sexuality

For: Students in grades 7 through 12

Materials: Blackboard, chalk, newsprint, and markers

Time: 15 to 20 minutes

Planning Notes: Expect some nervous laughter when you introduce the topic of sexuality. Some young people may not be used to discussing sexuality in a structured setting. Review the Leader's Resource, Recommended Ground Rules.

Procedure:

1. Explain that the group will explore definitions of and messages about sexuality. Acknowledge that it is normal for some teens to feel a little embarrassed or uncomfortable. Point out that in our society, although we hear about sexuality all the time in music, television programs, and movies, people often do not have serious discussions about the subject.
2. Write the word "Sexuality" on the board or newsprint. Ask for definitions and write the responses on the board or newsprint. Avoid clarifying what sexuality is or is not.
3. Tell the teens they will work in groups to spend a few minutes thinking about what they have heard about sexuality.
4. Give the following instructions:

You will be divided into three groups. Each group will have a different assignment. Group One will list what their parents have said about sexuality. Group Two will list what their friends have said about sexuality. Group Three will list what they have seen or heard about sexuality through the entertainment media—movies, music, magazines, and television.

5. Clarify that it is okay to list whatever they have heard or seen. There are no right or wrong answers in this activity.
6. Have the teens count off by three. Form groups in three different areas of the room.
7. Give each group a marker and newsprint. Assign "parents," "friends," or "media" to each group. Tell teens they have five minutes to brainstorm, as discussed above.
8. Circulate and give suggestions to help groups start. (For example, friends might say, "Everyone is having sex." Parents may have said, "Sex should wait for marriage." A common media message is "You'll be attractive to guys/girls if you use our product."
9. After five minutes, ask each group to post the newsprint and share its list of messages.
10. Conclude the activity using the Discussion Points below.

Discussion Points:

1. How are the messages from parents, friends and the media similar? Different? Why do you think that is so?
2. Which messages do you agree with? Disagree with?
3. Can you think of any sexuality messages you have heard from other sources, such as religious teaching, romantic partners or health teachers?
4. If you were a parent, what is the most important sexuality message you would give your child?
5. Which of these messages might make a person feel uncomfortable talking or reaming about sexuality?
6. Are there messages you think are incorrect and that you want more information about?

Adapted from Life Planning Education, a comprehensive sex education curriculum.  Washington, DC: Advocates for Youth, in press.