Introduction
When used properly, legal drugs such as medications can make life healthier and more comfortable. When used improperly, both legal and illegal drugs can lead to addiction and death. How have drugs affected your life?
You probably know people who take medicine that helps them live a normal life in spite of health challenges. We have all heard stories in the news of people who die from using drugs illegally. In order to make wise decisions about the use of legal and illegal drugs, it is important to educate yourself using credible sources of information.
Following successful completion of this lesson, students will be able to...
- Identify credible sources of information regarding over-the-counter, prescription, and illegal drugs
- Summarize personal values that influence choices about the use of and avoidance of drugs
Essential Questions
- What are safe practices regarding the use of legal and illegal drugs?
- Where can I find credible information about drugs?
- What are my personal beliefs that influence my behaviors that impact my health?
- What do I do if someone I care about is using drugs illegally?
Enduring Understandings
- Safe practices regarding drugs allow me to live a healthier, more fulfilling life.
- Reliable sources of information regarding safe administration of medications include qualified health care providers as well as online and print resources that are peer-reviewed such as .gov, or .org.
- All drugs should be used according to recommended guidelines.
- When antibiotics are prescribed, they should be taken as directed until the entire prescription is consumed.
The above objectives correspond with the Alabama Course of Study: Health Education standards: 1.1, 1.7, 2.4, 3.2, and 5.2.