Substance Abuse Prevention: Making Informed Choices

Shaneira DaSilva

Tier 1

Lesson Plan

Substance Abuse Prevention: Making Informed Choices

Understand the dangers of substance abuse

This lesson aims to educate students about the dangers of substance abuse, how to make informed choices, and where to seek help if needed. The lesson will help students develop decision-making skills and awareness about substance abuse, empowering them to make informed choices and seek help.

Audience

7th Grade Students

Time

1 hour

Approach

Understand the dangers of substance abuse

Materials

Whiteboard and markers, Printed worksheet, and Discussion guide

Step 1

Introduction

10 mins

Greet the students and briefly introduce the topic of substance abuse prevention.
Explain the objectives of the lesson: to understand the dangers of substance abuse, make informed choices, and know where to seek help.
Use the whiteboard to display key points.

Step 2

Video and Discussion

15 mins

Show a short video about the effects of substance abuse (optional if available).
Lead a discussion on the video's content, asking questions to ensure comprehension and to elicit students' thoughts and feelings.
Use the discussion guide to facilitate the conversation.

Step 3

Activity: Informed Choices

20 mins

Distribute the worksheet on making informed choices related to substance use.
Have students work individually or in small groups to complete the worksheet.
Walk around the classroom to provide support and engage with the students about their answers.

Step 4

Where to Seek Help

10 mins

Discuss with the students the various resources available for help with substance abuse (school counselor, local support groups, hotlines, etc.).
Provide examples and role-play scenarios where students might need to seek help.

Step 5

Closure

5 mins

Summarize the key points of the lesson.
Encourage students to share what they learned and any questions they still have.
Thank students for their participation and remind them that they can always seek help if needed.

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Discussion

Substance Abuse Discussion Guide

This guide will help facilitate a discussion on the dangers of substance abuse and students' thoughts and feelings about the topic.

What are some dangers of substance abuse?

Encourage students to think about both immediate and long-term effects. Discuss physical, mental, and social impacts.

Why is it important to make informed choices about substance use?

Guide students to understand the importance of knowledge and awareness in making safe decisions. Discuss scenarios where they might face peer pressure.

Where can you go if you or someone you know needs help with substance abuse?

Discuss available resources like school counselors, support groups, and hotlines. Emphasize that help is always available and it’s okay to ask for it.

Worksheet

Making Informed Choices Worksheet

This worksheet will help students reflect on scenarios related to substance use and practice making informed, safe decisions.

Describe a scenario where you might be offered a substance. What would you do in that situation?

Think about who might offer it to you, where you are, and why you should say no.

List three reasons why you should avoid substance abuse.

Consider health, personal goals, and relationships.

Who can you talk to if you feel pressured to use substances?

Think about trusted adults and friends.