Grade: 11
Objective: To learn about the legal, physical, and emotional consequences of substance abuse and addiction.
ASCA Mindsets & Behaviors Standard(s): M1. Belief in development of whole self, including a healthy balance of mental, social/emotional and physical well-being. B-SS 5. Ethical decision-making and social responsibility. B-SS 9. Social maturity and behaviors appropriate to the situation and environment.
Materials:
YouTube Videos below- (If unable to open, turn off safety at the bottom of the page or copy the link and paste into Firefox.)
Procedure:
1. Discuss with students what they already know about addiction:
What is your definition of “addiction”?
What causes drug/alcohol addiction?
Why are some people more susceptible to addiction than others?
Does a person’s age of first consumption affect addiction?
2. Watch the YouTube clip, “Nuggets” (5:05) below.
What happened when Kiwi (the bird in the clip) first discovered the nugget?
How did things change for Kiwi?
What is this animation a metaphor for? Do you feel it is realistic?
3. Watch the YouTube clip, “Wait 21 - Understanding Addiction as a Disease” (3:40) below.
What is dopamine? What does it have to do with addiction?
What are the benefits of waiting until you're 21 to consume?
How can you be proactive in "looking out" for your friends who may be addicted to a substance?
What would it take for people to learn from other people’s mistakes without having to go through it themselves?