1. Introduction

The previous two lessons focused on the physical and emotional changes young people go through in puberty. Boys and girls differ in reproductive organs, body shape and body changes due to differences in chromosomes and hormones. These differences between the two sexes are biologically determined.

But expectations of boys and girls from the society and community we live in, of how they should behave, are also different. In this lesson we will be looking at what the society we live in and what the cultural norms that we share, expect of us as boys and girls. Are these expectations for boys and girls similar or are there differences as well? And if so, where do these differences come from?

Are the students happy with the expectations society has of them because of their sex? Are these fair? Are the cultural norms for boys and girls, men and women? Or are there traditions which are harmful?

For them to decide what is fair and not fair students will learn about basic human rights and in particular sexual and reproductive rights. Every human being in this world is entitled to these rights regardless of age, religion, ethnicity, social status, gender, political beliefs, sexual orientation, disability and HIV status.

Students will be encouraged to make their own decisions to optimise their quality of life. They should all be able to enjoy and use their talents to make their own valuable contribution to the world. This goes hand in hand with taking responsibility for their decisions, treating each other with respect and dignity and creating a more fair world for all of us, boy or girl, man or woman.

2. Key Messages

1. Everyone in the world, including young people, is entitled to the same Human Rights. That’s a matter of justice and fairness.
2. Some of these rights protect the sexual and reproductive health of young people.
3. If you have rights, it means you also have responsibilities.
4. Boys and girls have the same rights. So do men and women.
5. Respecting those rights means treating man and woman fairly and encouraging them to share responsibilities. This helps create a more just, peaceful and healthy society.

2. Lesson Aims

1. Students know their rights as human beings and are willing and capable to stand up for them.
2. Students understand that gender inequality hinders the implementation of human rights for all.
3. Students recognise the importance of equality between men and women.
4. Students are aware of the demanding role of men and the vulnerable position of women and girls.
5. Students recognise the role of gender in their lives.
6. Students think about how they can apply human rights, especially those related to gender equality in their lives and communities.

3. Main Topics

The most important concepts being discussed in this lesson are:

1. Sexual and reproductive rights
2. Gender (versus sex)
3. Gender roles
4. Gender norms
5. Gender equality