As the school year begins to draw to a close, we will be finishing our 5th grade science curriculum with a study of the human body and human development as a whole. Here at Wise School, we strive to educate our students about the changes they will experience in adolescence from a scientific, emotional, social, and Jewish perspective. The students will be learning about Human Development during their science classes, as well as during physical education. Below is an overview of what you can expect your child to learn over the next few weeks.
Science Component (Both) - Mandy Bolkin and Ally Coatney
- Students will watch a video on the physical changes boys and girls experience in adolescence. The video is co-ed, but the boys and girls will be separated when they watch the video.
- Click here to view the video (called Always Changing - Co-Ed)
- Students will learn about the endocrine and reproductive systems, as well as proper hygiene
- Question and Answer Session on sex, reproduction, and other adolescence questions related to physical changes
Social/Emotional Component (Girls) - Led by Rachel Moghimi
- Respecting boundaries and privacy of others
- Self-esteem and positive self-image
- Dynamics of friendship groups
- Identifying instances of bullying, teasing, "joking around," etc.
- Body image and its relation to media
- Competition and sportsmanship
- Question and Answer Session on sex, reproduction, and other adolescence questions
Social/Physical Component (Boys) - Led by Ryan Hosler
- Respecting boundaries and privacy of others
- Puberty and physical changes in the body
- Relationships, crushes, respecting females
- Competition and sportsmanship
- Broad or general questions regarding sex and reproduction
Judaic Component (Both) - Led by Rabbi Josh and Malka Clement
- Sexuality is something that is sanctified and based on holiness (kedusha) and respect (kavod)
- Lessons will focus on these two elements in the transition through puberty