• Class: Primary 5
  • Term: 2nd Term
  • Week: 9
  • Age: 10 years
  • Duration: 40 minutes
  • Subject: Basic Science and Technology
  • Curriculum Theme: Physical and Health Education
  • Previous Lesson: Meaning of Food and Nutrition: Sources of Nutrition
  • Topic: Characteristics and Prevention of Deficiency Diseases
  • Content: Characteristics of deficiency diseases. Prevention of deficiency diseases.

Performance Objectives

By the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to:

Cognitive Domain:

  1. Define deficiency diseases and mention five examples.
  2. List five characteristics of deficiency diseases.

Affective Domain:
3. Appreciate the importance of balanced nutrition in preventing diseases.

Psychomotor Domain:
4. Identify images or drawings of symptoms of deficiency diseases.

Social Domain:
5. Discuss the role of family and community in preventing deficiency diseases.


Reference Materials

The following resources were used in planning this lesson:

  1. 9 – Years Basic Education Curriculum
  2. Abuja Educational Resource Centre Scheme of Work
  3. NAPPS National Unified Scheme of Work
  4. Online Information from: Britannica – Nutritional disease | Definition, Examples, & Facts
  5. Relevant textbooks on Basic Science and Technology

Instructional Materials

The teacher will teach this lesson with the aid of:

  1. Flashcards with images of symptoms of deficiency diseases
  2. Chart showing a balanced diet
  3. A whiteboard and marker
  4. Examples of foods rich in essential nutrients (real or pictures)

Rationale for the Lesson

Understanding deficiency diseases helps pupils recognize the importance of balanced nutrition, which is essential for maintaining good health and preventing illnesses.


Prerequisite/Previous Knowledge

Pupils have basic knowledge of food and nutrition from the previous lesson.


Instructional Procedures

To deliver this lesson, the teacher will adopt the following steps:

Content DevelopmentTimeTeaching MethodTeaching StrategyTeacher’s ActivityPupils’ ActivityLearning Point
Step 1: Introduction5 minsSet inductionInteractive questioningAsks pupils about the meaning of food and its importance.Respond by sharing their ideas.Food provides nutrients essential for health.
Step 2: Explanation of Topic10 minsLecture methodUse of visuals and examplesDefines deficiency diseases and explains their causes and examples.Listen attentively and observe visual aids.Deficiency diseases are caused by lack of nutrients.
Step 3: Characteristics8 minsDiscussion methodGuided discoveryLeads a discussion on five characteristics of deficiency diseases.Participate actively in the discussion.Characteristics include weakness, stunted growth, etc.
Step 4: Prevention7 minsDemonstrationHands-on activityShows examples of balanced meals and explains how to prevent diseases.Identify balanced meals and note the nutrients.Balanced nutrition prevents deficiency diseases.
Step 5: Note-taking5 minsLecture methodDirect instructionGuides pupils to copy a concise note into their exercise books.Write down the lesson note.Pupils document their learning.
Step 6: Evaluation3 minsQuestioningGroup participationAsks questions to assess comprehension of the topic.Answer the questions orally.Understanding is assessed.
Step 7: Conclusion2 minsRecapSummarizationSummarizes the lesson and emphasizes key points.Share one thing they learned from the lesson.Lesson objectives are reinforced.

Lesson Content

Characteristics and Prevention of Deficiency Diseases

Deficiency diseases occur when the body lacks essential nutrients. These diseases can affect growth, energy levels, and overall health.

Characteristics of Deficiency Diseases:

  1. Weakness and fatigue.
  2. Stunted physical or mental growth.
  3. Pale skin or brittle nails.
  4. Frequent illnesses due to low immunity.
  5. Poor vision, especially at night.

Prevention of Deficiency Diseases:

  1. Eat a balanced diet containing carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.
  2. Consume fruits and vegetables daily.
  3. Drink plenty of water and avoid junk food.
  4. Seek medical advice if symptoms persist.
  5. Educate others about the importance of proper nutrition.

Lesson Evaluation

To evaluate the learning, the teacher asks pupils to:

  1. Define deficiency diseases.
  2. Mention three examples of deficiency diseases.
  3. List two characteristics of deficiency diseases.
  4. State three ways to prevent deficiency diseases.
  5. Discuss how families can support proper nutrition.

Note for Teachers Using This Lesson Plan

Encourage active participation by making the lesson interactive and relatable. Use real-life examples and ensure pupils understand the significance of balanced nutrition. Happy teaching!

Last Update: January 3, 2025