Grade 7 Integrated Science LIVING THINGS AND THEIR ENVIRONMENT – Reproduction in human beings Notes
Reproduction in Human Beings
Topic: LIVING THINGS AND THEIR ENVIRONMENT — Integrated Science (age 12, Kenya)
What is reproduction?
Reproduction is the process by which living things make more living things of the same kind. In humans, reproduction produces babies (children) that grow into adults.
Why is reproduction important?
- It keeps the human population going.
- It allows families and communities to grow.
- It passes genes from parents to children (so children may look like their parents).
Type of human reproduction
Humans reproduce by sexual reproduction. This means two parents (a male and a female) are involved. Each parent provides a cell called a gamete.
- Male gamete = sperm (very small, many are produced).
- Female gamete = egg or ovum (one is released at a time from the ovary).
Simple visual: sperm meets egg
Fertilisation: When a sperm joins with an egg. This usually happens inside the woman's fallopian tube. The fertilised cell is called a zygote.
Male and female reproductive parts (simple)
Male (main parts)
- Testes – make sperm and male hormones.
- Sperm ducts – carry sperm out.
- Penis – delivers sperm to the woman.
Female (main parts)
- Ovaries – make eggs and female hormones.
- Fallopian tubes – where fertilisation usually happens.
- Uterus (womb) – where the baby grows.
- Vagina – birth canal and where sperm is received.
What happens after fertilisation?
- Fertilisation forms a zygote (single cell).
- The zygote divides and becomes an embryo (early stages) and later a fetus.
- The embryo implants in the uterus and grows for about 9 months (≈40 weeks). This is called pregnancy.
- At the end of pregnancy the baby is born.
Tip: You can think of 9 months like most of a school year — a long time for a baby to grow inside the mother.
Growth stages (very simple)
(1 cell)
(weeks)
(months)
(born)
Puberty and changes
Before young people can reproduce, their bodies go through puberty. This happens between about 9–15 years. Changes include:
- Girls: breasts grow, periods (monthly bleeding) begin, hips widen.
- Boys: voice becomes deeper, facial and body hair appears, shoulders broaden.
- Both: mood changes and growth spurts.
If you have questions about puberty, talk to a trusted adult, teacher, or health worker.
Care, hygiene and safety
- Girls need regular care before and during pregnancy (antenatal care) to help mother and baby stay healthy.
- Good hygiene (cleanliness) is important for both boys and girls — washing the genital area with water and mild soap is enough.
- Respect privacy and body boundaries. If something makes you uncomfortable, tell a trusted adult.
Key terms
Zygote — embryo — fetus — fertilisation — gamete — sperm — egg (ovum) — uterus — puberty — antenatal care
Class activity / Questions
- Match each term with its meaning (e.g., sperm, ovary, fertilisation).
- Draw a simple life timeline of human reproduction using the stages: zygote → embryo → fetus → baby.
- Discuss why antenatal care is important for mother and baby.
Where to get more help (Kenya)
If you or someone you know has questions about reproduction, puberty or pregnancy, talk to a teacher, school nurse, parent/guardian, or visit a local health clinic. Health workers give correct information and support.
Summary
Human reproduction is sexual. It needs a sperm from the male and an egg from the female. Fertilisation makes a zygote that grows inside the uterus for about nine months. Puberty prepares the body for reproduction. Always ask trusted adults or health workers if you are unsure or worried.
Note: These notes are for school learning and are age-appropriate. For personal questions, speak to a trusted adult or health professional.