Key Messages

  • We all change and develop during puberty.
  • All bodies are different and will experience changes differently.
  • There are many myths and misunderstandings about puberty. It’s good to have an adult to ask about this.

Learning Intention

Students will: Revise the changes that happen when young people go through puberty by using an interactive elimination game.

Time

10 minutes
Alternative: 20 minutes

Required Resources

  • “Puberty Statements” teacher reference sheet.
  • One set of Puberty statement cards per small group (optional).
Download Required Resources

Teaching Notes

Students love this fun activity as it provides them with the opportunity to learn and share knowledge. Congratulate students for providing correct answers and provide feedback on incorrect responses. Alternatively, you could ask students to explain why they chose a certain response (the students may have been confused or felt under pressure). This activity can be conducted either individually or in small groups providing plenty of opportunity for discussion.

Please Note: It is important to note that all bodies are different. This can include differences in how someone's body looks or how someone feels about their gender. When we discuss bodies, we often separate them into two categories – typical male and female. People who are intersex, transgender, or non-binary may not fit exactly into either of these categories. Because of this, where possible, the word ‘typically’ is used when referring to specific sexes or genders. Students should be encouraged to apply the information that is fitting for them and their individual body.

Procedure

  1. Individually: Students to stand behind their chair on commencing this activity.
  2. Read out a puberty statement.
  3. If a student agrees with the statement, they place their hands behind their back. If the student disagrees with a statement, they place their hands above their head.
  4. Ask students to perform the action that matches the statement. Students demonstrating the correct answer are then asked to stay standing. Those whose response is incorrect are asked to sit down, they can however still test their knowledge by continuing to play while seated.
  5. The last student standing is the winner.
  6. Group: Alternatively, divide the class into four groups and provide them with a set of Puberty statement cards to sort under the headings of ‘Agree', ‘Disagree' and ‘Not sure'. Discuss all ‘Not sure' cards as a class and briefly discuss the correct answers.

Questioning

  1. What is puberty and why do people go through it?
  2. Does everyone experience puberty the same as each other? Explain
  3. What people or sources of information can an individual access if they have any further questions?

Curriculum Information