Lesson Notes By Weeks and Term v5 - Grade 6

Lesson Video

This page supports the lesson note with a companion video and a short classroom-ready summary.

For class groups and homework, share this lesson page so learners also get the summary, objectives, and full lesson context.

Performance objectives

• Identify different types of abused substances.
• Explain the negative health and social consequences.
• Demonstrate how to resist peer pressure.
• Define 'addiction' and understand its impact.
• Identify trusted adults you can talk to for help.

Lesson summary

Substance abuse, including alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs, is a serious problem affecting individuals, families, and communities across South Africa. Understanding the risks and consequences of substance abuse, and developing strategies to resist peer pressure, is crucial for Grade 6 learners to make informed and healthy choices. This lesson aims to equip you with the knowledge and skills to protect yourselves from the dangers of substance abuse and promote a healthy lifestyle. We'll discuss various substances, their harmful effects, and how to say "no" to pressures that might lead you down a harmful path.

Lesson notes

What is Substance Abuse? Substance abuse is when someone uses legal or illegal substances in a way that is harmful or dangerous. This can include using too much of something (like alcohol), using it too often, or using illegal drugs. It can lead to serious health problems, addiction, and problems with family and friends. In South Africa, common substances of abuse include alcohol (beer, wine, spirits), tobacco (cigarettes, snuff), cannabis (dagga), and other illegal drugs like tik (methamphetamine) and heroin.

Types of Substances and Their Effects: Alcohol: Alcohol is a depressant, meaning it slows down the brain and body. Short-term effects include slurred speech, poor coordination, impaired judgment, and vomiting. Long-term abuse can lead to liver damage, brain damage, and addiction.

Example:* Sipho drinks too much beer at a party and starts acting aggressively and falling down. This shows the immediate effect of impaired coordination and judgment.

Tobacco: Tobacco contains nicotine, which is highly addictive. Smoking tobacco can cause lung cancer, heart disease, and other serious health problems. Secondhand smoke is also harmful to those who breathe it in.

Example:* Auntie Maria has been smoking cigarettes since she was a teenager. Now she has a constant cough and struggles to breathe. This illustrates the long-term health risks.

Cannabis (Dagga): Cannabis can affect a person's mood, perception, and coordination. Short-term effects include increased heart rate, anxiety, and paranoia. Long-term use can affect memory and learning.

Example:* Thando smokes dagga with his friends before class and finds it difficult to concentrate and remember what the teacher is saying. This shows how dagga impairs concentration and memory.

Tik (Methamphetamine): Tik is a highly addictive stimulant that can cause serious health problems, including heart damage, brain damage, and mental health problems. Users often experience paranoia, hallucinations, and violent behaviour.

Example:* A young man in your neighbourhood starts using tik. He becomes very thin, anxious, and lashes out in anger for no reason. This shows the dramatic and negative effects of Tik.

Other Drugs: This category includes prescription drugs used improperly, over-the-counter medications abused, and other illegal substances like heroin and cocaine. The effects vary depending on the substance, but all can be dangerous and addictive.

Consequences of Substance Abuse: Health Problems: Substance abuse can lead to a wide range of health problems, including liver disease, heart disease, lung cancer, brain damage, and mental health problems.

Addiction: Addiction is a chronic disease that makes it hard to stop using a substance, even when it causes harm. It changes the way the brain works.

Example:* A person addicted to alcohol continues to drink even though it is ruining their relationships and job.

Family Problems: Substance abuse can cause conflict, financial problems, and emotional distress within families. It can lead to neglect and abuse of children.

Example:* A child whose parent abuses alcohol often feels neglected and unsafe.

Risky Behaviour: People under the influence of substances are more likely to engage in risky behaviours, such as drunk driving, unprotected sex, and violence.

Example:* Teenagers who drink alcohol at a party are more likely to get into fights or have unprotected sex.

Legal Problems: Using and selling illegal drugs can lead to arrest and imprisonment. Driving under the influence of alcohol is also a serious crime.

Example:* Someone caught selling dagga will face legal consequences.

Resisting Peer Pressure: Peer pressure is when people your age try to influence you to do something you might not want to do. It can be difficult to resist peer pressure, but it's important to stand up for yourself and make healthy choices. Say "No" Assertively: Practice saying "no" firmly and confidently. Look the person in the eye and explain your reasons for saying no.

Example:* "No, thanks. I don't drink alcohol. I want to stay healthy." Suggest an Alternative Activity: Offer a different activity that doesn't involve substance use.

Example:* "Instead of drinking, let's go play soccer or watch a movie." Hang Out with Friends Who Don't Use Substances: Surround yourself with friends who support your healthy choices. Avoid Situations Where Substances Are Being Used: If you know that a party or gathering will involve substance use, it's best to avoid it.

Seek Help from Trusted Adults: Talk to a parent, teacher, counselor, or other trusted adult if you're struggling with peer pressure or substance abuse. Guided Practice (With Solutions)

Question 1: List two short-term effects of alcohol on the body.

Solution: Two short-term effects of alcohol on the body are: Slurred speech Poor coordination

Commentary: This question tests the learners' understanding of the immediate physiological effects of alcohol consumption.