Abstract
Textbooks are usually a primary formal source of sex information for most secondary school students. We examined textbooks used in ninth grade health education classes in the state of Texas from 1956 to 1993. Previous studies have focused on content, or the “range of topics” covered and the “amount of space” devoted to each. Using a classical form of rhetorical analysis known as topoi or topical analysis this study focused on “how” the material was addressed, rather than “what” was addressed. Findings suggest that while the range of topics and depth to which they are covered have increased dramatically in the last 40 years, the manner in which they are addressed however, has not changed significantly. The sex education content of ninth grade health education textbooks, adopted for Texas public schools front 1955-1993, were consistently characterized by descriptions of the mechanics of the reproductive system, definitions of scientific terms, and discussion of the emotional stresses of dating and relationships. Application of topoi analysis to other sex education materials is strongly encouraged.