Activity Introduction
Quick summary: Run your tongue along with your teeth. Does it feel furry? Or is it squeaky clean? Does this change over the day? What is happening inside my mouth to create this furry feeling? This lesson takes a close look at the effects of sugar on the mouth. The students discover the super brushers and reluctant flossers, as they take a closer look at dental hygiene. Students undertake a mini-experiment looking at how calcium reacts when surrounded by acids. They explore the long-term effects of sugar, and whether there is a connection with teeth, the health of our organs, and the foods we consume.
Learning intentions:
- Students find out that poor food choices can impact the health and quality of their teeth
- Students understand that the choices they make can have a positive impact on future health.
21st century skills:
Australian Curriculum Mapping
Content descriptions:
Years 3 & 4 HPE:
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Identify and practice strategies to promote health, safety, and wellbeing (ACPPS036).
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Discuss and interpret health information and messages in the media and internet (ACPPS039)
Syllabus outcomes: PHS2.12, SLS2.13
General capabilities: Critical and Creative Thinking
Cross-curriculum priority: Sustainability, Indigenous Perspectives
Relevant parts of Year 3 & 4 HPE achievement standards:
Students interpret health messages and discuss the influences on healthy and safe choices. They understand the benefits of being healthy and physically active. They describe the connections they have to their community and identify local resources to support their health, wellbeing, safety and physical activity. Students apply strategies for working cooperatively and apply rules fairly. They use decision-making and problem-solving skills to select and demonstrate strategies that help them stay safe, healthy and active.
Topic: Health and Wellbeing
This lesson is part of the wider unit of work Sugar By Half.
Time required: 60 mins.
Level of teacher scaffolding: Medium, to support student learning and lead lesson discussions.
Resources required:
- A device capable of creating audiovisual recordings, such as an iPad, computer, or camera
- Food items: fresh eggs (2 dozen), 4L of vinegar, or a large bottle of cola (quantity will depend on whether you decide to conduct this as an individual or group activity)
- Pencils, markers, A3 poster paper
- Student Worksheets – one copy per student.
- Teeth Brushing Line slips – printed
Keywords: human body, teeth, mouth, sugar, personal care, health and wellbeing.
