Let's Talk About... FGM Age 7-11 Lesson Plan

The "My Body, My Choice" lesson plan, aimed at children aged 7-11, addresses the sensitive topic of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). The lesson begins with a 4-5 minute starter where learners reflect on the concept of culture, discussing its meaning and sharing personal experiences in pairs. This sets the stage for understanding the broader context of cultural practices. Following this, a brief 1-2 minute discussion helps learners understand the significance of the topic in relation to UK law, emphasizing why it's crucial to be informed about such issues.

Through small group and whole class discussions lasting 12-15 minutes, students consider whether certain cultural practices can be harmful. They are introduced to various global cultural practices, using a thumbs-up or thumbs-down gesture to express their views on whether these practices are harmful. An optional video about a neck-stretching tribe may be shown to illustrate this point. The lesson continues with a 7-9 minute exploration of what FGM entails, including defining key terminology and, if deemed appropriate, watching a short educational video. The session proceeds with a focus on understanding who is most at risk of FGM and delves into the long- and short-term effects of FGM over a 5-8 minute period. The lesson culminates in an 8-15 minute segment on spotting the signs of FGM and discussing the appropriate actions to take if there are concerns for oneself or others. In the final 3-4 minutes, learners are encouraged to voice any remaining questions and are guided towards additional support or information resources. The lesson aims to empower students with the knowledge to stay safe, recognize inappropriate contact, and have the confidence to report abuse.