Saying No to Alcohol, Nicotine, and Drugs

7th GradeHealth35 min

Learning Objective

I can explain the benefits of refusing alcohol, nicotine, and drugs.

Lesson Flow

Watch Video

6 min

What causes addiction, and why is it so hard to treat? - Judy Grisel

TED-Ed

Guided Notes

7 min

Key concepts students will learn:

  • When someone repeatedly uses an addictive substance, their brain may develop a tolerance, requiring more of the substance to achieve the same effect.

  • Addictive substances exploit the brain's reward pathway by altering the release of dopamine in the nucleus accumbens.

  • Factors such as trauma, mental health conditions, and substance use before age 18 can increase a person's susceptibility to substance use disorder.

Practice

11 min

5 questions • Multiple choice & Short answer

Exit Ticket

5 min

Name three negative effects that alcohol, nicotine, or drugs can have on the brain and body, as explained in the video.

Teacher Guide

Get the complete package:

  • Answer keys for all questions
  • Differentiation strategies
  • Extension activities
  • Printable student handouts