Class: Senior Secondary School 1 (SSS 1)
Term: 3rd Term
Week: 6
Age: 15 years
Duration: 45 minutes
Subject: Cosmetology
Curriculum Theme: Entrepreneurship (Trade Subjects)
Previous Lesson: Stages of Hair Treatment.
Topic: SCALP PROBLEMS AND DISORDERS
Subject Matter: Alopecia, Dandruff, Lichen Simplex
Specific Objectives
By the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to:
Cognitive Domain:
- Define common scalp problems such as alopecia, dandruff, and lichen simplex.
- List different types and causes of alopecia.
- Identify the signs and symptoms of dandruff and lichen simplex.
Affective Domain:
- Appreciate the importance of maintaining a healthy scalp.
- Show concern for clients experiencing scalp disorders.
Psychomotor Domain:
- Distinguish between different scalp conditions using visual aids.
- Suggest basic preventive measures for common scalp problems.
Social Domain:
- Participate in discussions about scalp hygiene and health.
- Collaborate with peers to identify potential solutions for scalp problems.
Reference Materials
The following resources were used in planning this lesson:
- 9 Years Basic Education Curriculum
- State Unified Scheme of Work for Senior Secondary Schools
- Comprehensive Cosmetology for Senior Secondary Schools by [Author/Publisher, e.g., F.N. Okoro]
Instructional Materials
The teacher will teach this lesson with the aid of:
- Charts showing different scalp problems (e.g., images of dandruff, alopecia patterns, lichen simplex lesions).
- Pictures and diagrams of healthy and unhealthy scalps.
- Whiteboard and markers.
- Projector (optional, for displaying images).
Rationale for the Lesson
Understanding scalp problems is important for cosmetology pupils because it helps them identify and address client concerns effectively. This knowledge enables them to provide appropriate advice and care, promoting good scalp health and professional practice.
Prerequisite/Previous Knowledge
Pupils have basic knowledge of hair structure, hair care, and general hygiene practices.
Lesson Content/Board Summary
SCALP PROBLEMS AND DISORDERS
Alopecia
Alopecia refers to the partial or complete loss of hair from the head or body. It can affect people of all ages and genders and can be temporary or permanent.
The following are common types of alopecia:
- Androgenetic Alopecia: Also known as male or female pattern baldness, it is a genetic condition.
- Alopecia Areata: An autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks hair follicles, causing patchy hair loss.
- Traction Alopecia: Caused by constant pulling on the hair, often due to tight hairstyles like braids or weaves.
- Telogen Effluvium: Temporary hair shedding due to stress, illness, or hormonal changes.
Dandruff (Pityriasis Capitis)
Dandruff is a common scalp condition that causes flakes of skin to appear and often accompanied by itching. It is not contagious or serious, but it can be embarrassing.
The following are common causes of dandruff:
- Dry skin.
- Irritated, oily skin (seborrheic dermatitis).
- A yeast-like fungus (Malassezia) that feeds on oils on the scalp.
- Not shampooing often enough.
- Sensitivity to certain hair care products (contact dermatitis).
The following are common signs and symptoms of dandruff:
- White, oily-looking flakes of dead skin on the scalp, hair, eyebrows, beard, or shoulders.
- Itchy scalp.
- Oily or dry scalp.
Lichen Simplex Chronicus (Neurodermatitis)
Lichen Simplex Chronicus is a chronic skin condition characterized by thick, leathery patches of skin that result from repeated scratching or rubbing. When it affects the scalp, it can lead to intense itching and hair loss in the affected areas.
The following are common causes and triggers of Lichen Simplex Chronicus on the scalp:
- Persistent scratching due to underlying conditions like dry skin, eczema, or insect bites.
- Stress and anxiety can worsen the itching.
- Irritation from certain hair products.
The following are common signs and symptoms of Lichen Simplex Chronicus on the scalp:
- Intense, often localized itching on the scalp.
- Thickened, leathery, and sometimes discolored patches of skin.
- Scalp sores or scabs from scratching.
- Hair loss in the affected areas due to chronic scratching.
Teaching Methods/Instructional Techniques
Discussion, Lecture, Demonstration, Question and Answer, Visual Aids
Instructional Procedures
Step 1: Introduction
Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Set Induction
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher greets the pupils, reviews the previous lesson briefly, and then introduces the new topic by asking pupils to identify common hair and scalp problems they or people they know might have experienced. The teacher writes the topic “SCALP PROBLEMS AND DISORDERS” on the board.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils respond to the questions and share their experiences or observations about scalp issues. They listen attentively as the teacher introduces the topic.
Learning Point: Pupils recall previous knowledge and are introduced to the lesson’s focus.
Step 2: Presentation of Alopecia
Time: 10 minutes
Teaching Skill: Explanation/Illustration
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher defines alopecia and explains its various types (androgenetic, areata, traction, telogen effluvium) using charts and diagrams to illustrate the different patterns of hair loss. The teacher encourages questions.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen, observe the charts, take notes, and ask questions for clarification.
Learning Point: Pupils understand the definition and types of alopecia.
Step 3: Presentation of Dandruff
Time: 10 minutes
Teaching Skill: Explanation/Demonstration
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher defines dandruff, discusses its common causes and symptoms, and explains how it differs from other scalp conditions. The teacher may use visuals of a dandruff-affected scalp. The teacher also highlights basic hygiene practices to manage dandruff.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils pay attention, observe the visuals, and note down the causes and symptoms of dandruff.
Learning Point: Pupils learn about dandruff, its causes, symptoms, and basic management.
Step 4: Presentation of Lichen Simplex Chronicus
Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Explanation/Discussion
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher defines Lichen Simplex Chronicus (LSC) on the scalp, explaining it as a result of chronic scratching. The teacher discusses its causes, triggers, and the distinctive signs and symptoms, emphasizing the importance of not scratching.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen, ask questions, and contribute to the discussion on the effects of scratching.
Learning Point: Pupils understand Lichen Simplex Chronicus, its causes, and symptoms.
Step 5: Discussion and Q&A
Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Questioning/Facilitation
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher facilitates a brief discussion, inviting pupils to compare and contrast the different scalp problems discussed. The teacher answers any remaining questions and reinforces key learning points about each condition.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils participate in the discussion, ask clarifying questions, and share their understanding.
Learning Point: Pupils deepen their understanding by comparing the conditions and getting their questions answered.
Step 6: Visual Aid Review and Preventive Measures
Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Visual Learning/Reinforcement
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher reviews the charts and diagrams of all three conditions, pointing out key visual identifiers for each. The teacher also guides pupils to suggest basic preventive measures for maintaining a healthy scalp.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils observe the visuals again, identify the conditions, and suggest ways to prevent them.
Learning Point: Pupils reinforce their visual identification skills and recall preventive measures.
Step 7: Evaluation/Review
Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Questioning/Assessment
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher evaluates the learning by asking the following questions:
- Define alopecia.
- List two types of alopecia.
- Mention three common causes of dandruff.
- State two signs of Lichen Simplex Chronicus on the scalp.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils answer orally and in writing.
Learning Point: Pupils demonstrate understanding of the lesson.
Step 8: Conclusion
Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Summarization
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher summarizes the main points of the lesson, emphasizing the importance of identifying and understanding scalp problems in cosmetology. The teacher gives a brief assignment for pupils to research other common scalp conditions.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen to the summary, ask any final questions, and note down the assignment.
Learning Point: Pupils consolidate their learning and are encouraged to explore further.
Lesson Keywords
- Alopecia – Hair loss from the head or body.
- Dandruff – A common scalp condition causing flakes of skin and itching.
- Lichen Simplex Chronicus – A chronic skin condition characterized by thickened, leathery patches from repeated scratching.
- Hair Follicle – A tubular invagination of the epidermis from which a hair grows.
- Seborrheic Dermatitis – An inflammatory skin condition causing flaky, white to yellowish scales on oily areas.
Differentiation
The teacher will provide additional visual aids and simplified explanations for pupils who may struggle with understanding complex medical terms. Advanced learners will be encouraged to research deeper into the treatment options for each condition and present their findings.
Note for teachers using this lesson plan
Teachers should ensure that charts and diagrams are clear and visible to all pupils. Encourage active participation through questions and discussions. Real-life examples or case studies (without revealing personal details) can make the lesson more relatable and engaging. Emphasize that cosmetologists identify problems but refer clients with severe or undiagnosed conditions to dermatologists.

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