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      Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can describe what STIs are, how they are transmitted, and ways to prevent them.

      Key learning points

      1. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are infections transmitted through sexual contact.
      2. Common STIs include chlamydia, gonorrhoea, and HIV.
      3. STIs can have a range of symptoms or be asymptomatic.
      4. STIs are transmitted through unprotected sexual activity.
      5. Using condoms and regular testing can help prevent STIs.

      Keywords

      • Symptom - a physical or mental sign that indicates a condition or disease

      • Asymptomatic - showing no symptoms of disease

      • Transmission - the act of passing a disease from one person to another

      Common misconception

      STIs always have visible symptoms.

      Some STIs can be asymptomatic, meaning they show no symptoms but can still be transmitted and cause health issues.

      Teacher tip

      You may wish to speak to your RSHE lead before delivering this lesson.

      Content guidance

      Depiction or discussion of sensitive content

      Depiction or discussion of sensitive content

      Depiction or discussion of mental health issues

      Depiction or discussion of sexual content

      Supervision

      Adult supervision required

      Licence

      This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2025), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0
      except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions
      (Collection 2).

      Lesson video

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      Prior knowledge starter quiz

      5 Questions

      Q1.
      Reliable sources of advice on sexual and reproductive health include GPs, sexual health , and trusted online resources.

      Correct Answer: clinics

      Q2.
      Match the words to the definitions.

      Correct Answer:confidential,keeping information private and not sharing it

      keeping information private and not sharing it

      Correct Answer:General Practitioner (GP),a doctor who provides general medical care and advice

      a doctor who provides general medical care and advice

      Correct Answer:reproductive health,the health of the reproductive system

      the health of the reproductive system

      Q3.
      Why might someone feel nervous or worried about asking for support for sexual or reproductive health?

      Correct answer: Fear of being judged
      Correct answer: Not knowing where to go
      Correct answer: Feeling embarrassed to talk about personal topics
      No one ever feels nervous or worried doing this

      Q4.
      What does 'confidential advice' mean when seeking help for sexual or reproductive health?

      advice that is shared with your family
      Correct answer: advice that is kept private and not shared without your permission
      advice that is only available online
      advice that is given in public

      Q5.
      Which of the following is an example of a trusted online resource for sexual and reproductive health advice?

      A random blog found on the internet
      Correct answer: NHS website
      Social media influencers
      A group chat with friends

      6 Questions

      Q1.
      Match the word to the definition.

      Correct Answer:STI,a sexually transmitted infection

      a sexually transmitted infection

      Correct Answer:symptom,a physical or mental feature that indicates a condition or disease

      a physical or mental feature that indicates a condition or disease

      Correct Answer:transmission,the act of passing a disease from one person to another

      the act of passing a disease from one person to another

      Q2.
      STIs can have a range of symptoms or be...

      Correct Answer: asymptomatic

      Q3.
      Which of the following is an example of an STI?

      influenza
      Correct answer: chlamydia
      common cold

      Q4.
      Which of the following is true about STIs?

      STIs always cause visible symptoms.
      STIs never cause any health problems.
      Correct answer: STIs don’t always have visible symptoms.

      Q5.
      Which of the following is a method to help prevent STIs?

      Correct answer: using barrier method contraceptives
      only having regular check-ups with no contraception
      avoiding any form of physical exercise

      Q6.
      Complete the sentence: Regular is important in preventing the spread of STIs.

      Correct Answer: testing

      To help you plan your 9 RSHE (PSHE) lesson on: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...