Learning About Growing Up: Volume 1--From Boyhood to Manhood

Kids are most comfortable talking about sexual issues with one another--of course, this is also how they tend to become misinformed. Learning About Growing Up uses the format of an open discussion in a co-ed, multicultural classroom intercut with "person-on-the-street" style interviews that explore current perceptions of sex, and instruction from health-care professionals. The students in the video are a good deal less embarrassed or reticent than those in a real-life classroom, and a bit more clinical ("your brain tells your testicles to force out some of the sperm"), but they're convincing. Although the video tries to remain extremely neutral on controversial issues--almost to the point where sex is reduced to a biological function--the concepts of responsibility and respect are still emphasized. The title is somewhat misleading, as it is not specific to male puberty, and the accompanying guide includes topics not covered in the video. However, the program could be used as an opener for a sex-ed unit, as it is useful for introducing basic vocabulary and concepts, and generating discussion. Recommended, with reservations. Two other titles are also available in the series: From Girlhood to Womanhood and Sex & Responsibility for $39.95 each. Aud: I, J. (E. Gieschen)