Overview
This lesson introduces the concept of abstinence. Students learn the definition of abstinence, then read various viewpoints about it written from the perspective of kids their age and discuss the benefits of abstinence shown in each story. They complete an activity sheet to identify which benefits would be most important to them personally and the people who could support them in their choice. They take home a family sheet to help them discuss abstinence with their parents or guardians.
Note: In all discussions of abstinence, remember that there may be students in the class who have been sexually abused, and who were never given the option to choose not to have sex. Be sensitive to these experiences, and let all students know that they can reach out to you or another trusted adult if they are currently in a situation where they don’t get to make their own choices about sexual activity.
Lesson Objectives
Students will be able to:
- Describe the benefits of being sexually abstinent.
SEL Connection
- self-management
Time: 35 minutes
Healthy Behavior Outcomes
- SH-5: Be sexually abstinent.
National Health Education Standards
- Standard 1: Comprehending Concepts
- Performance Indicator 1.5.1: Describe the relationship between healthy behaviors and personal health.
- Standard 5: Decision Making
- Performance Indicator 5.5.6: Describe the outcomes of a health-related decision.
