Students in middle school are taught basic human anatomy including systems of the body. Systems discussed in middle school health are the skeletal, digestive, respiratory, muscular and circulatory systems. Students will learn how the systems function and what organs and muscles and other tissues are involved. Students will also learn about disease, illnesses and conditions affecting bodily systems and functions.
Recycling, reusing and using sustainable resources are valuable lessons for a middle school student. Students are given education and resources about environmental awareness and how to create less of a permanent footprint (i.e. recycling, reusing, sustainable products, organic food). Students are also taught how to create a healthy community. This may include volunteering, shopping locally or helping to create a cleaner neighborhood.
Middle school students learn about brain function, mental illness risk factors, symptoms of mental illness and treatment options. Students will be given resources and education about what to do if they suspect themselves or loved ones of having a mental illness.
Students are taught the basics of first aid and CPR, including learning to address cuts, scrapes, minor burns and the stages of CPR. Students watch videos, work in notebooks and practice on CPR dummies. Students are also taught the Heimlich maneuver and how to apply tourniquets and dress wounds.
At the middle school level, students learn about both male and female reproductive anatomy, puberty, adolescent changes, sexually transmitted diseases, pregnancy and prevention of pregnancy. Schools may or may not require parental permission to teach middle school students human sexuality content.
Middle school students are the perfect age for learning about healthy eating, nutritional guidelines and the foundations of healthy weight and eating healthily. Students may bring in records of their current meal plans, and the health teacher can lead peers in assisting one another with making more nutritious choices. Students may also learn about cooking, meal planning and caloric intake for their size and shape.
Automobile safety, water safety, using public transportation safely and avoiding gangs and bullies are addressed in the personal safety component of a middle school health class. Students should be safe in all aspects of their lives, from avoiding fights to wearing seat belts.
Students must be taught what illegal drugs are, how prescription drugs may be taken incorrectly, dangers of drug and alcohol use, misuse and abuse and signs that they or a loved one may be in trouble. This portion of the health class may include a section on peer pressure and resisting drugs and alcohol when offered by friends.