Lesson Plan
Hidden Dangers Intro
Students will identify hidden harmful substances in everyday products and complete the Spot the Substance worksheet to reinforce their awareness of substance use risks.
Understanding that common items may contain substances like nicotine or THC empowers students to make safer choices and supports substance use prevention.
Audience
9th Grade
Time
15 minutes
Approach
Interactive identification and brief application
Materials
Prep
Prepare Materials
5 minutes
- Review Everyday Substances Slide Deck
- Familiarize yourself with the Spot the Substance Worksheet
- Ensure projector or screen is set up for the slide-deck presentation
Step 1
Warm-Up
3 minutes
- Ask students to name everyday products they think might contain hidden substances
- Record responses on the board to gauge prior knowledge
Step 2
Presentation
5 minutes
- Use Everyday Substances Slide Deck to showcase 3 familiar items (e.g., flavored candies, teas, lip balms)
- Highlight hidden substances (nicotine, THC, caffeine)
- Prompt students with questions: “Why might these be risky?”
Step 3
Activity
5 minutes
- Distribute Spot the Substance Worksheet
- Instruct students to work individually or in pairs to identify hidden substances in listed products
- Circulate to support and clarify concepts
Step 4
Reflection
2 minutes
- Invite volunteers to share one surprising item they discovered
- Discuss how this knowledge can influence their choices and peer conversations
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Slide Deck
Hidden Dangers: Everyday Substances
Learn how common items—like snacks, drinks, and cosmetics—can disguise harmful substances. Let’s uncover what to watch out for!
Welcome students! Explain that today we’ll look at everyday products that may contain hidden substances. Our goal is to become more aware of what we consume and why it matters. Mention we’ll use a worksheet next.
Flavored Candies
• Some gummy candies contain nicotine or THC
• Often brightly colored and sweet to mask harshness
• Users may not realize they’re consuming an addictive substance
Show an image of flavored gummies or candies (if available). Explain that some candies are infused with nicotine or THC and packaged to appeal to youth. Emphasize addictive properties and health risks.
Teas & Drinks
• Certain “herbal” teas contain CBD or THC
• Energy teas may have very high caffeine levels
• Marketing often suggests health benefits, but risks exist
Discuss popular bottled teas or energy drinks. Point out that CBD, THC, or high caffeine levels can be hidden under the guise of natural or herbal beverages. Note possible side effects like jitteriness or psychoactive responses.
Lip Balms & Cosmetics
• Some lip balms include CBD or THC
• Nicotine lip patches or balms may be sold as cosmetic
• Absorption through skin or lip tissue still delivers substances
Present images of lip balms or cosmetics. Explain how manufacturers add CBD or even nicotine to lip balms. Stress that applying to skin or ingesting small amounts can still deliver substances.
Why Are Hidden Substances Risky?
• Unexpected health effects and side effects
• Addiction and dependence potential
• Legal and school policy consequences
Discussion: Can you name other everyday items that might hide substances?
Facilitate discussion: ask students to share any products they’ve encountered with hidden ingredients. Prepare to transition to the worksheet activity.
Worksheet
Spot the Substance Worksheet
Name: ______________________ Date: ____________
Instructions: Using what you learned from the Hidden Dangers Intro and the Everyday Substances Slide Deck, identify the hidden substance in each product below.
-
Flavored Gummy Bears
Description: Brightly colored gummy candies sold in small packs.
Hidden Substance: ________________________
-
Bottle of Herbal Tea
Description: Marketed as a calming, all-natural beverage.
Hidden Substance: ________________________
-
All-Natural Lip Balm
Description: Lip balm labeled “100% natural” with a fruity scent.
Hidden Substance: ________________________
-
Energy Drink Can
Description: Labeled with “extra boost” and “natural caffeine” claims.
Hidden Substance: ________________________
-
Bath Salts Jar
Description: Sold as a muscle relaxant in small, spice-like jars.
Hidden Substance: ________________________
-
Fruit Chewable Snacks
Description: Chewable vitamin snacks shaped like fruit pieces.
Hidden Substance: ________________________
Reflection
Why is it important to check product labels and ingredient lists before using everyday items? How can knowing about hidden substances affect your health and choices?