Class: Junior Secondary School 2 (JSS2, JSS 2)
Term: 2nd Term
Week: 5
Age: 13 years
Duration: 45 minutes
Subject: Basic Science And Technology
Curriculum Theme: Basic Science
Previous Lesson: Energy Transfer When Work Is Done
Topic: Family Life Education (Part 1)
Subject Matter: Communication Techniques, Importance of honest communication about pubertal concerns to responsible parents
Specific Objectives
By the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to:
- Cognitive Domain:
(a) Define communication and explain its importance in family life.
(b) Identify effective communication techniques for discussing pubertal concerns. - Affective Domain:
(a) Appreciate the need for honesty when communicating with parents about puberty.
(b) Develop positive attitudes towards discussing personal and sensitive issues responsibly. - Psychomotor Domain:
(a) Demonstrate effective verbal and non-verbal communication skills in role-play scenarios. - Social Domain:
(a) Show respect and understanding when listening to family members’ guidance.
(b) Collaborate with peers in group discussions to practice communication strategies.
Reference Materials
The following resources were used in planning this lesson:
- 9 Years Basic Education Curriculum
- Lagos State Unified Scheme of work for Junior Secondary Schools
- RSIS International – The Role of Family Communication and Parenting on Children’s Social Behavior
- Relevant Textbooks
Instructional Materials
The teacher will teach this lesson with the aid of:
- Charts illustrating communication techniques
- Flashcards with common pubertal concerns
- Role-play scripts for practicing parent-child conversations
- Whiteboard and markers
- Audio-visual materials (short educational videos)
Rationale for the Lesson
To enable pupils understand the importance of honest communication with parents about puberty for personal development and emotional well-being.
Prerequisite/Previous Knowledge
Pupils should have basic understanding of family relationships, respect for parents, and general knowledge of puberty from previous lessons.
Lesson Content/Board Summary
Family Life Education
Communication Techniques
Communication is the act of exchanging information, feelings, and ideas effectively between people. Effective communication ensures understanding and strengthens relationships.
The following are common communication techniques:
- Verbal communication – using words to express thoughts clearly.
- Non-verbal communication – using gestures, facial expressions, and body language.
- Active listening – giving full attention and responding appropriately.
- Asking questions – seeking clarity to avoid misunderstandings.
- Empathy – showing understanding and care when listening to others.
Importance of Honest Communication About Pubertal Concerns to Parents
Honest communication about puberty helps children navigate changes safely, receive guidance, and build trust within the family.
These include:
- Allows parents to provide correct information and guidance.
- Prevents misinformation from peers or media.
- Builds a strong trust-based relationship with parents.
- Reduces anxiety or confusion about bodily changes.
- Encourages responsible decision-making during adolescence.
Strategies for Effective Parent-Child Communication
Parents and children can use specific strategies to enhance communication and understanding.
They are:
- Choosing a suitable time and private place for discussion.
- Speaking in a calm and respectful tone.
- Being honest and clear about concerns and questions.
- Listening without interrupting or judging.
- Using examples or illustrations to explain feelings or experiences.
Teaching Methods/Instructional Techniques
Discussion, Lecture, Explanation, Storytelling, Visual Aids, Role-Play, Group Work
Instructional Procedures
To deliver this lesson, the teacher will adopt the following steps:
Step 1: Introduction
Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Set Induction
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher tells a short story about a child who successfully discussed pubertal concerns with a parent.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen and respond to guided questions.
Learning Point: Engage pupils and introduce the importance of communication in family life.
Step 2: Definition of Communication
Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Explanation
Teacher’s Activity: Defines communication and gives examples.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils repeat definitions and give examples from their experiences.
Learning Point: Understand what communication entails.
Step 3: Communication Techniques
Time: 10 minutes
Teaching Skill: Discussion and Visual Aid
Teacher’s Activity: Lists and explains verbal, non-verbal, active listening, asking questions, and empathy using charts.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils take notes and provide examples of each technique.
Learning Point: Identify and explain communication techniques.
Step 4: Importance of Honest Communication About Pubertal Concerns
Time: 10 minutes
Teaching Skill: Lecture and Discussion
Teacher’s Activity: Explains why honest communication with parents is vital and gives examples.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils discuss in pairs and share their thoughts with the class.
Learning Point: Appreciate the value of honest communication in puberty.
Step 5: Strategies for Effective Parent-Child Communication
Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Explanation and Demonstration
Teacher’s Activity: Demonstrates strategies using role-play with a pupil volunteer.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils practice role-plays in groups.
Learning Point: Apply strategies for effective communication.
Step 6: Note-Taking
Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Guided Writing
Teacher’s Activity: Highlights key points from board summary for pupils to copy.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils write notes.
Learning Point: Reinforce learning through written summary.
Step 7: Evaluation/Review
Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Questioning
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher evaluates the learning by asking the following questions:
- Define communication.
- Mention two communication techniques.
- Why is honest communication about puberty important?
- List two strategies for effective parent-child communication.
Pupils’ Activity: Answer questions orally and in writing.
Learning Point: Assess understanding of lesson objectives.
Step 8: Conclusion
Time: 2 minutes
Teaching Skill: Reinforcement
Teacher’s Activity: Summarizes the lesson and emphasizes honest communication with parents.
Pupils’ Activity: Listen and respond.
Learning Point: Consolidate learning and understanding of lesson objectives.
Lesson Keywords
- Communication – exchanging information
- Puberty – developmental stage of physical changes
- Honesty – truthfulness in expression
- Active Listening – fully concentrating on the speaker
- Empathy – understanding and sharing feelings
- Role-Play – acting out scenarios to practice skills
Differentiation
Use mixed-ability groupings, provide visual aids for slower learners, and encourage advanced pupils to lead discussions or role-plays.
Note for teachers using this lesson plan
Encourage sensitivity when discussing personal issues. Maintain a supportive and respectful classroom environment. Use real-life examples for better understanding.

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