Resources: The handout and the internet.
Core Handout: ‘Development Timeline’ handout.
The students should have a basic understanding of the stages of human development, including the different phases of prenatal development and the major milestones in physical and cognitive development during childhood. They may also be familiar with differences in gestation periods in various mammals.
Ask the students to write down how they think foetuses in the womb develop. Do they develop everything at the same time? Do some organs appear before others? When does hair start growing? Students should look at their list again at the end of the lesson to see what they got correct.
Answer questions and take part in activities during the presentation. Create a timeline to show development from day 1 of the cycle to birth. Note that during pregnancy, week 1 starts with menstruation and continues to around week 40. Birth can happen at any point but babies born between 38-42 weeks are classed as “full term.”
Career Film: Lucy Douglas-Pannent works as a Public Health Speciality Registrar for the National Health Service.
Expert Film: Katie discusses what she experienced during different stages of her pregnancy.
The students should show the key stages which happen from fertilisation to birth and the approximate size of the baby throughout its development.
They should also add any interesting facts they find out about each stage of development, as well as information about what the mother will be experiencing during her pregnancy.
Support: Ask the students to think about how the mother might be feeling each month. What things might become tricky for her as the baby develops?
Challenge: Can the students find out the order of development of the baby week by week and what it can do at each stage?
Ask the students to discuss what they found most interesting or surprising about the process of development from fertilisation to birth. This can help reinforce what they have learned and encourage them to think critically about the topic.
Knowledge of the stages of pregnancy: It is important to have a clear understanding of the different stages of pregnancy and the changes that occur in the developing embryo and fetus during each stage.
Understanding of the role of hormones: Hormones play a crucial role in the development and maintenance of pregnancy. A teacher should be familiar with the various hormones involved and their functions.
Knowledge of potential complications: There are a variety of potential complications that can occur during pregnancy, such as ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage and preterm labour. A teacher should be aware of these complications and how they can impact the developing fetus and mother.
Familiarity with prenatal care: Prenatal care is essential for ensuring a healthy pregnancy and reducing the risk of complications. A teacher should be familiar with the various components of prenatal care and how they contribute to the overall health of the mother and developing fetus.
Understanding of childbirth: A teacher should be familiar with the different stages of labour and delivery, as well as the potential complications that can arise during childbirth.
Knowledge of postnatal care: Postnatal care is important for the health and well-being of both the mother and newborn. A teacher should be familiar with the various components of postnatal care and their importance in promoting a healthy recovery for both mother and baby.