Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 17/01/2026
Subject: Biology
Lesson Topic: Describe the effect of protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) on children: kwashiorkor and marasmus.
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe the clinical features of kwashiorkor and marasmus in children.
  • Compare the nutritional deficiencies and presentations of the two forms of PEM.
  • Explain the pathophysiology that causes edema in kwashiorkor and wasting in marasmus.
  • Outline immediate management and long‑term prevention strategies for protein‑energy malnutrition.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector and screen
  • Printed handouts with a comparison chart
  • Case‑study cards (kwashiorkor vs. marasmus)
  • Whiteboard and markers
  • Worksheet for Venn diagram activity
  • Short video clip on PEM (optional)
 Introduction:

Show a striking image of a child with pitting edema and ask students what they notice about the child’s appearance. Briefly recall previous learning about protein and calorie requirements. Explain that today they will identify how severe deficiencies manifest as kwashiorkor or marasmus and what teachers expect them to demonstrate by the end of the lesson.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑now (5'): Students list signs of malnutrition they have observed in media or community.
  2. Mini‑lecture (10'): Define PEM, introduce kwashiorkor and marasmus with key features using slides.
  3. Case‑study analysis (15'): Small groups receive a case card, decide which form of PEM it represents, and note distinguishing signs.
  4. Comparison activity (10'): Groups complete a Venn diagram comparing clinical features of the two conditions.
  5. Pathophysiology explanation (10'): Teacher models albumin loss → edema (kwashiorkor) and protein catabolism → wasting (marasmus).
  6. Management & prevention discussion (10'): Whole‑class brainstorm of immediate treatment steps and community prevention measures.
  7. Exit quiz (5'): Quick Kahoot/exit ticket where each student writes one key management action for each condition.
Conclusion:

Summarise the main differences between kwashiorkor and marasmus, emphasizing the role of protein versus combined protein‑energy deficiency. Students complete an exit ticket stating one clinical sign and one management step for each condition. For homework, assign a brief research task on a local nutrition program that addresses PEM.