S3-5 Contraception Teacher Notes
Introduction
This section covers several aspects of Contraception which is often reviewed as a non-examined topic within the Science (Biology) syllabuses. The intention is to provide online content and activities for pupils, along with additional teacher support in the form of suggestions and ideas for classroom work and downloadable activity sheets. These materials can be used to support teachers as part of the new framework in Scotland concerning Sex Education.
The pupil content begins with an introduction on the basic facts about what contraception is. This leads the student to consider how the different techniques work, in relation to their knowledge of the male and female reproductive systems and the fusion of the egg and sperm - conception.
Curriculum references
Standard Grade References
Biology Topic 3
Sub topic b Reproduction
Classroom Applications
Introduction to contraception
This section provides a guide telling students how to use the site and reminds them of the high risk of the possibility of fertilisation even if only ONE sperm is present!
The concept of contraception is put into context of it being a decision which must be taken by two people.
Barrier methods
A review of the methodology, effectiveness, pros and cons of CONDOMS, DIAPHRAGMS/CAPS and the FEMIDOM is covered quite thoroughly. Emphasis is placed on the added protection provided by condoms against STDs.
Hormonal methods
Some knowledge of the function of female sex hormones here is useful but not essential. This section looks at the COMBINED PILL, MINI PILL and INJECTABLE CONTRACEPTIVES. Their mode of action, effectiveness and advantages/disadvantages are detailed.
Natural methods
Some understanding of the Menstrual cycle is useful to understand the RHYTHM METHOD, WITHDRAWAL and PERSONA. The first two show a reliance on understanding ovulation and the idea of a fertile period, whilst it is helpful to know the roles of the sex hormones to appreciate the function of Persona . Their mode of action, effectiveness and advantages/disadvantages are detailed.
Permanent methods
This section emphasises that these methods are usually only available to adults who have a good reason for not wanting any/any more children. As the name suggests, VASECTOMY and STERILISATION should be regarded as being permanent. Their mode of action, effectiveness and advantages/disadvantages are detailed.
Intra-uterine devices
This section does state that IUD's work not by preventing conception but by preventing implantation and development. Teachers should be aware that for some people/religions this, like other forms of contraception mentioned, is not acceptable and that all points of view should be valued.
Their mode of action, effectiveness and advantages/disadvantages are detailed.
Summary
A brief synopsis of the information covered.
Revision time
A typical exam question to test the students knowledge.
Useful web links
The Government's guidelines on SRE are available at:
The Sex Education Forum of the National Children's Bureau is online at:
Further information on contraception is available at:
Information on family planning is available from the fpa (formerly The Family Planning Association) which is a registered charity working to improve the sexual health and reproductive rights of all people throughout the UK. The site is available at:
Information on ClearBlue Pregnancy Test
For the latest information on HIV and STIs data in the UK visit the Public Health Laboratory Service site at:
The Department of Health information web site on sexual health is available at:
The National AIDS Trust (NAT) aims to promote a wider understanding of HIV and AIDS.
Downloads
Pupil Section Exe Files
These are versions of the pupil material for this topic that you can download and use offline. Simply save the .exe file to your desktop and double-click it.
Contraception
PDF files
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