“Did you hear they’re installing vape detectors in the school’s bathrooms?” Taj asked. “I hope they work. I’m tired of trying to use the bathroom while people are hanging out in there vaping.”

“I think it’s a waste of money,” Sofia said. “It’s inevitable that kids will find somewhere else to vape or figure out a way around it.”

“Well, the school has to do something about students vaping. It just makes sense,” Taj contradicted. 

“Then they should try actually talking to students about why vaping is harmful - educating them! Or I’ve seen anti-vaping videos exhibited online - that would probably be helpful, too,” Sofia added.

Mr. Seemy suggested that Sofia and Taj find out from classmates what methods might be effective to prevent vaping.

Sofia and Taj designed the following survey to collect their classmates’ answers:

What flaws do you see in Sofia and Taj’s method?

How would you design a study to find out what prevents teen vaping?

Discussion Question:

An accumulation of evidence has shown that teenagers are more likely to engage in risky behavior. Because of the way teenage brains develop, teens focus much more on the possible rewards of risky behavior and have a harder time resisting impulses. This may make it easier for companies to manipulate teens into trying a risky product. So, do teens deserve more protection from dangerous products? Or are they just as responsible for their own choices?