The Family Life Education optional unit of the Manitoba (Canada) Health Education curriculum reflects the current emphasis in health education on preventive medicine, total well-being, and the assumption of individual responsibility for health. The unit as a whole consists of four components: an overview and three grade level guides designed for grades 5, 7, and 9. The grade 7 instructional package is organized around five themes: "The Importance of Families"; "Human Growth and Development"; "Relationships and Responsibilities"; "Personal Safety"; and "Promoting Positive Lifestyle Practices." Specific topics include: "Family Functions"; "The Endocrine System"; "Personal Hygiene"; "Caring for Family Members"; "Dating: Concerns and Responsibilities"; and "Sexual Assault Prevention." The package includes 12 age-appropriate lessons that contain student objectives, suggested activities, teaching aids, teacher background notes, references, and information about required materials. A list of family life education audiovisual resources is included. (IAH)