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Substance Use & Abuse Project

Grade 11, Grade 12 · Health and Physical Education

# Substance Use & Abuse Research Project Help students explore the realities of substance use and abuse through this engaging, student centered research and presentation project. In this assignment, students select a specific drug or substance and investigate its short term and long term effects, factors that can contribute to substance use, healthy alternatives, resilience strategies, and available supports. Students then use their research to create a product and present their findings to the class. ### Students Choose One Substance Students can choose from: • Marijuana • Cocaine • Methamphetamine (Meth) • Xanax • Fentanyl • Acid • Alcohol • Nicotine • LSD • Heroin ### Students Create ONE Product Students can demonstrate their learning through a format that best suits their strengths and creativity: • Poster • Brochure • Infographic • Podcast • Slideshow • Video • Mind Map • Another format with teacher approval ### Research Questions Students must address all of the following: • What are some short term consequences of using the chosen drug? • What are some long term consequences? • What specific consequences could someone their age face from using the drug? • What factors can contribute to someone using the drug? • Why might people turn to substances, and what healthy alternatives could they use instead? • What strategies can help someone develop resilience against substance use? • Where can someone go to get help if they are struggling with substance use or abuse? ### Presentation Rubric Included A detailed **50 point rubric** is included to assess: • Verbal Skills • Non Verbal Skills • Ideas and Content • Final Product The rubric provides clear Level 1 to Level 4 expectations, making assessment straightforward and helping students understand what is expected of their presentation. ### Why Teachers Will Love This Resource ✓ Ready to use with minimal preparation ✓ Encourages student choice and creativity ✓ Promotes research and critical thinking ✓ Addresses substance use, healthy decision making, and resilience ✓ Provides multiple options for student products ✓ Can be used for individual or small group presentations ✓ Includes a detailed assessment rubric ✓ Suitable for Health and Physical Education classrooms This resource gives students an opportunity to move beyond simply learning facts about drugs and substances and instead consider **why substance use happens, how it can affect young people, how to build resilience, and where individuals can find support.** **Perfect for:** Health, Physical Education, Wellness, Healthy Living, and substance use education units.