Below is the Introduction to Learning Theme Two, as found in the
Curriculum Supplement. Read through the overview for
Learning Theme Two.
Learning Theme Two emphasizes that students can
be a good resource and positive influence for their
peers. It sheds light on an alternative perspective of
peer influence by demonstrating how students in the
class can be a positive influence on their peers. It
also demonstrates how a peer's negative influence and
behaviour can lead to positive action on the part of the
students.
Students will learn to identify signs of harmful
involvement with substances, be able to decide when and how
to intervene, and consider how to handle a range of
possible responses from a friend (for example, wants help
and is willing to access it; knows there is a problem but
wants to deal with it without help; doesn't want parents to
know; or is denying there is a problem).
The
activities in Learning Theme Two have been developed under
the assumption that some grade 9 students may find
themselves in situations where they have taken a risk or
they are with friends who have taken risks that have led
to negative consequences, and quick thinking and
response are called for to keep everyone safe. Many of
the alcohol- and other drug-related risks faced by youth
happen in the company of peers and are frequently a
result of the behaviour of peers. This learning theme
explores risky situations from the perspective of
handling both the risks and the role peers play. The
entire class will participate in a party during which a
number of alcohol- and drug-related issues and
potentially negative consequences
arise.
Becoming Familiar with
the Activities
Using either your hard copy of the supplement or by
clicking on the Learning Theme Two
link,
read through the time frame and the activities for this
learning theme.
Checking My
Understandings
This section is designed to ensure your familiarity with
Learning Theme Two. Check your responses to these questions
before proceeding to the third Learning Theme.
- What are the signs and
stages of dependence on a substance or behaviour?
- How can students help a
friend who is having problems with substance use?
- How do community-based services support the prevention and treatment of addictions?
All done? Please go to Learning Theme Three.