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ADVANCED LESSON

The Science Of Sex

This lesson explores scientific approaches to sexual arousal and intimacy.

Learning intentions:

  • Describe the four stages of the human sexual response cycle
  • Identify two facts and two myths about sexual response
  • Recognise that sexual activity does not always end in orgasm
  • Understand that, in the context of sexual abuse and sexual assault, a bodily response to sexual stimulation does not indicate enjoyment or consent

Digital Educator: Chloe

  • 12-30 learners

    Class size

  • 11+

    Year Level

  • 60 minutes

    Course duration

  • Nil

    Student Handouts

    Preparing for the lesson

    Information
    Resources
    ACHPE Objectives
    UNESCO Objectives
    Safety & Wellbeing
    Sequence
    Extension
    In this The Science Of Sex lesson, students will engage with the concepts of sexual arousal and psychological arousal.

    The lesson uses a number of videos to explore research ranging from pioneering work by Masters & Johnson (1966) to the modern approach of Dr Emily Nagoski (2022). Students will complete a quiz to separate myth from fact before engaging in peer discussions on the important aspects of desire, connection, and psychological safety. 

    Each lesson ends with a consolidation activity, inviting students to list 1 thing they have learnt from the lesson, 1 thing they already knew, 1 piece of advice they would share with a friend, and 1 adult or organisation that would be helpful in relation to the lesson topic.  

    Facilitator Printouts

    Student Printouts

    Additional Student Resources


    Not applicable.
    Key Concept 1: Relationships
    1.2 Friendships, Love and Romantic Relationships.
    •  Key idea: There are different ways to express affection and love. 


    Key Concept 2: Values, Rights, Culture and Society
    2.3 Culture, Society and Sexuality.
    •  Key idea: It is important to be aware of how social and cultural norms impact sexual behaviour while developing one’s own point of view.


    Key Concept 5: Skills for Health and Wellbeing
    5.1 Norms and Peer Influence on Sexual Behaviour. 
    •  Key idea: It is possible to make rational decisions about sexual behaviour.
    • The lesson dispels the myth that arousal and orgasm relate to consent. This is an important discussion however it can be difficult for students who have experienced childhood sexual abuse or sexual assault. 
    1. Research alternative models of sexual response including Kaplan's linear model and Basson's non-linear model. 
    Ideally, you will have scope to deliver all of the lessons in your program. However we understand that many schools have limited capacity to do so.

    In Year 11 and 12 you can deliver lessons from either year level. It can be helpful for Year 12's to explore more foundational issues in the Year 11 curriculum. It is also beneficial for Year 11's to have access to more advanced lessons from the Year 12 curriculum.  

    Should you find yourself having to implement part of this program, we have provided a suggested sequence of lessons within the broader skills and knowledge categories of relationship, consent, gender, and health & legal literacy. We recommend delivering at least one lesson from each category.

    1. Group Agreements & Pod Mapping should be the first lesson as per best practice.
    2. The program should finish with Great Debates as it provides an opportunity for students to integrate their learnings with their own values and engage in respectful communication on conflicting views. 

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