Group 8
Condoms are the only method of birth control that protects against sexually transmitted diseases; including chlamydia, gonorrhea, genital warts, herpes, and HIV. In addition, they also prevent pregnancy by acting as a sheath around the penis to collect semen. Unless both partners have had an STD test, including an HIV test, (or if they want to get pregnant) there is no reason or excuse not to use a condom every time one has sex.
It is estimated that by the end of high school, 68% of the students will have had sex*. Since condoms are the first line of defense, it is important for both young males and females to be able to put one on. Females especially need to know this procedure, and should carry around a condom in their purse just in case the situation arises (pun intended) in which they need one. What better way to take control of your sexuality than to always be prepared?
The purpose of this activity is to teach high-schoolers how to put on a condom properly and to address questions and concerns about condom usage. Condoms are typically 85% effective against pregnancy. When used perfectly all the time, they are 98% effective**. Many people, especially young people, do not use condoms correctly which can result in unwanted pregnancies or sexually transmitted diseases. In this activity, each student will be required to put a condom on a banana. In order to receive the prize, students must use a lubricated condom, or else several drops of lubricant (in order to reduce friction, and thus the chance of breaking). Next, students must leave a space of approximately ½ inch at the top of the condom in order to collect semen. The condom is more likely to break if there is no place for the semen to collect. The students that complete the activity with these requirements fulfilled will win a copy of The "Go Ask Alice" Book of Answers : A Guide to Good Physical, Sexual, and Emotional Health. This book discusses many relevant topics in a young adults life, including things that they might not be comfortable asking their parents or teachers.
After this activity is complete, a “condom quiz” will be handed out in order to address common questions and myths regarding condoms. Issues such as proper storage of condoms, suitable lubricants for latex condoms, the female condom, how to take off a condom, what to do if it breaks, where to buy them, how much they cost, how they protect against STDs, etc. will be included on the quiz. After everyone is finished, we will go over the answers together as a class and answer any other questions the students might have.
*http://www.mtv.com/onair/ffy
**http://www.plannedparenthoo