Pathogens and Diseases – Basic 4 Physical & Health Education Lesson Note (Third Term)

Class: Primary 4
Duration: 30 minutes
Subject: Physical and Health Education

Learning Objectives

By the end of this lesson, pupils will be able to:

• Define pathogens
• Name types of pathogens
• Explain what diseases are
• Distinguish between communicable and non-communicable diseases

What are Pathogens?

Pathogens are very tiny living things that can make us sick. They are so small that we cannot see them with our eyes. They are also called germs or microbes.

Types of Pathogens

1. Bacteria

• Very small living things
• Can cause sore throat, stomach problems
• Some are good, some are bad
• Example diseases: Typhoid, cholera

2. Fungi

• Plant-like germs
• Like to grow in warm, wet places
• Cause skin problems and infections
• Example diseases: Ringworm, athlete’s foot

3. Virus

• The smallest pathogens
• Need other living things to survive
• Spread very easily
• Example diseases: Cold, flu, measles

4. Protozoa

• Single-celled living things
• Often found in dirty water
• Can cause serious sickness
• Example diseases: Malaria, dysentery

What are Diseases?

Diseases are sicknesses that make our body not work properly. They make us feel bad and can stop us from doing normal activities.

Types of Diseases

1. Communicable Diseases

What they are: Diseases that can spread from one person to another How they spread:

• Through air (coughing, sneezing)
• Through touch
• Through dirty water or food
• Through insect bites

Examples:

• Malaria (from mosquito bites)
• Cold and flu (through air)
• Cholera (through dirty water)
• Measles (through air and touch)

2. Non-Communicable Diseases

What they are: Diseases that cannot spread from person to person What causes them:

• Poor eating habits
• Not exercising
• Family history
• Old age

Examples:

• Diabetes (too much sugar)
• Heart disease
• Cancer
• High blood pressure

How to Prevent Diseases

• Wash hands regularly with soap
• Eat clean, healthy food
• Drink clean water
• Cover mouth when coughing
• Sleep under mosquito nets
• Exercise regularly
• Keep surroundings clean

Simple Activity

Practice proper hand washing with soap and water.

Evaluation

1. What are pathogens?
2. Name two types of pathogens
3. What is the difference between communicable and non-communicable diseases?
4. Give one example of each type of disease