Truth vs. Fiction

Discovering the Truth About Drug Use in Teens

DIRECTIONS:

Imagine that a friend of yours who you have had a close bond with for many years suddenly begins to behave differently. You've noticed this because you are so close, however, no one else seems to have picked up on any changes.  You decide to ask your friend what is going on.  The answer is that this friend has begun taking drugs.

We all know that drugs can have a variety of effects in a person's body.  However, what do you really know about what a specific drug will do to the brain of a person your age?

The task is made up of TWO PARTS.

PART 1:

Use the research links below in order to find out the facts. You will take notes using your NOTES SHEET to answer the following questions:

A)  Define what the drug is.  What names are used to refer to this drug?  Does it come in more than one form?

B)  What are the short term effects of taking this drug?  What physical impact does it have as soon as it is taken?

C)  What are the long term effects of taking this drug?  With repeated use, what might happen to the user?

PART 2:

After you've gathered your research information on your notes sheet, you will draft a letter to this friend, using the template/guide located on this link.  Tell him/her what you've learned about this drug, including the short term and long term effects it can have on him/her.  Lastly, explain to this friend why you are concerned.

As a class, we will work through an example of how this can be done.

RESOURCES

After your teacher assigns your group a drug to research, use the links below to find out the information you will need.  Write down or type up your notes on the Notes Sheet.  This is the information which will help you write your letter.  If you have questions while researching, please ask your teacher for assistance.