Health Class at WMS
Letter home to Caregivers
Dear Caregivers,
Welcome to Term 3 Health class! I cannot believe how quickly this school year has gone; June will be here before we know it. This is my 14th year here at WMS, and I am always looking forward to having a new group of students. At the start of each term I always like to reach out and connect with caregivers about what health class is all about.
Health class is always an exciting opportunity for students to gain knowledge, understanding and confidence in themselves. Here at WMS students are fortunate enough to have health class in 6th, 7th, and 8th grade! Health class meets for one trimester every other day. This averages out to about 30 classes total for the term.
Through the three years we discuss a variety of topics that build on one another. Middle school is a time where students are changing physically, mentally and socially. It is an exciting time where students are gaining independence, but still looking for and accepting of direction. I am fortunate enough to have students for all three years and see them grow and change.
Health class creates a foundation of a positive self-image while considering influences and the role of decision making on daily teen life challenges. Above is a diagram I believe sums up the ultimate goal of middle school health.
The topics for 6th, 7th and 8th grade health are listed below. If you are looking for specifics on curriculum or have questions/concerns please feel free to email.
6th grade: health triangle, puberty, self-image, goal setting, and decision making
7th grade: vaping, alcohol, marijuana, gateway drugs, decision making, depression and suicide
8th grade: puberty myths vs. reality, gender identity, media/Social influence, resisting peer pressure, decision making, healthy vs. unhealthy Relationships
Students are expected to complete all work during class time. They will be graded on all in-class work, projects, and overall contribution to the classroom community. I encourage conversations to continue at home about what we discuss in health class.
It is valuable for students of all genders to participate in learning together, so that they have respect and an accurate understanding of development, aging and societal pressures that everyone experiences. All students are different, but there is a common goal in health class. The goal of being a successful and safe member of society!
Sincerely,
Nicole Lewis
WMS Health Teacher-Classroom B154