Lesson Notes By Weeks and Term v5 - Grade 5

Lesson Video

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Performance objectives

• Define substance abuse and name common substances.
• Describe the dangers of alcohol and tobacco.
• Learn how to say 'no' to peer pressure.
• Know when to ask a trusted adult for help.
• Understand how to use medicine safely.

Lesson summary

This lesson focuses on Substance Abuse: Understanding the Dangers of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drugs. Substance abuse is a significant concern in South Africa, affecting individuals, families, and communities. It can lead to health problems, social issues, crime, and economic hardship. Equipping young learners with knowledge about the dangers of substance abuse is crucial for preventative education and empowering them to make informed and healthy choices. This lesson aims to provide learners with a foundational understanding of what substances are, the harmful effects they can have, and strategies for resisting peer pressure and seeking help if needed.

Lesson notes

What is Substance Abuse? Substance abuse refers to the harmful or hazardous use of psychoactive substances, including alcohol and illicit drugs. It also encompasses the inappropriate use of prescribed medicines. It is a pattern of harmful use that can lead to significant problems and distress. These problems can include health problems, social problems, work-related issues, and legal problems. Common Substances of Abuse in South Africa Alcohol: A legal drug widely available in South Africa. It is often consumed at social gatherings and can be purchased by adults (18 years and older).

However, excessive alcohol consumption is harmful.

Tobacco (Cigarettes): Another legal drug also widely available. Cigarettes contain nicotine, a highly addictive substance.

Dagga (Marijuana): Though its legal status is changing in South Africa, the use of dagga, especially by young people, is a concern. It affects mental clarity and can be addictive.

Over-the-Counter Medications: Medicines like cough syrup, pain relievers, and sleeping pills are safe when used according to the instructions, but they can be harmful if misused.

Prescription Medications: Medicines prescribed by a doctor, such as painkillers, antibiotics, and other medications, are only safe for the person they are prescribed for and should be taken exactly as instructed. Negative Consequences of Alcohol and Tobacco Use Alcohol: Health Problems: Can damage the liver, heart, and brain. Can increase the risk of certain cancers.

Impaired Judgement: Makes it difficult to think clearly and make safe decisions, leading to accidents and risky behaviours. For example, walking home alone at night after drinking too much.

Addiction: Can lead to alcohol dependence, a chronic disease.

Social Problems: Can lead to arguments, fights, and strained relationships with family and friends.

Financial Problems: Regularly buying alcohol can be expensive.

Tobacco: Health Problems: Causes lung cancer, heart disease, and other serious illnesses.

Addiction: Nicotine is highly addictive, making it difficult to quit smoking.

Respiratory Problems: Causes coughing, shortness of breath, and asthma.

Bad Breath and Yellow Teeth: Affects appearance and hygiene.

Financial Problems: Cigarettes are expensive. Peer Pressure and How to Resist It Peer pressure is when people in your age group try to influence you to do something, even if you don't want to. Say "No" confidently: Practice saying "No, thank you" or "I'm not interested." Suggest an alternative activity: "Let's rather go play soccer" or "Let's watch a movie instead." Surround yourself with positive friends: Choose friends who respect your decisions.

Walk away: If you feel uncomfortable, simply remove yourself from the situation.

Blame it on your parents/guardians: "My parents would be very upset if I did that." Use the buddy system: Have a friend who shares your values and can support you in resisting peer pressure. Seeking Help It's important to tell a trusted adult (parent, teacher, counselor, relative) if you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse. There are people who care and want to help. There are also organizations and helplines that can provide support and treatment. In South Africa, the South African National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (SANCA) offers support and information. Responsible vs. Irresponsible Use of Medications Responsible Use: Taking medicine exactly as prescribed by a doctor. Only taking medicine that is prescribed specifically for you. Reading and following the instructions on the label. Storing medicine safely, out of reach of children. Understanding the possible side effects of the medication.

Irresponsible Use: Taking more medicine than prescribed. Taking medicine prescribed for someone else. Mixing medicine with alcohol or other drugs without doctor's approval. Not reading the instructions on the label. Sharing your medication with others.

Example: Imagine Sipho’s friend offers him a cigarette behind the school toilets. Sipho knows smoking is bad for his health.

He can use strategies like: Saying, "No thanks, I don't smoke." Suggesting they play soccer instead. Walking away if his friend continues to pressure him. Guided Practice (With Solutions)

Question 1: What is substance abuse? Give one example of a substance commonly abused in South Africa.

Solution: Substance abuse is the harmful or hazardous use of psychoactive substances, including alcohol and illicit drugs, or the inappropriate use of prescribed medicines. An example of a commonly abused substance in South Africa is alcohol.

Commentary: This question tests the basic understanding of the definition of substance abuse and requires learners to recall a specific example.

Question 2: List two negative consequences of smoking cigarettes.

Solution: Two negative consequences of smoking cigarettes are: 1) Increased risk of lung cancer and heart disease. 2) Addiction to nicotine.