STANDARD 2.3    (DRUGS AND MEDICINES) ALL STUDENTS WILL LEARN AND APPLY INFORMATION ABOUT ALCOHOL, TOBACCO, OTHER DRUGS AND MEDICINES TO MAKE DECISIONS THAT SUPPORT A HEALTHY, ACTIVE LIFESTYLE. 

 

Descriptive Statement:  This standard aims to provide students with information on the responsible use of medicines as well as the effects of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs.  The appropriate use of medicines can prevent serious health problems, reduce absenteeism from work and school, and enhance the quality of life.  Conversely, the misuse or abuse of substances such as alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs can impair judgment and lead to illness and injury.  Helping students to acknowledge the internal and external pressures that influence them to use substances enables and empowers them to make choices that support a healthy, active lifestyle.

 

Cumulative Progress Indicators

 

Building upon knowledge and skills gained in preceding grades, by the end of Grade 4, students will:

 

A. Medicines

        1. Distinguish between over-the-counter and prescription medicines.

        2. Identify commonly used medicines and discuss why they are used.

        3. Discuss the importance of taking medicines as ordered, not sharing medicines with others, and reporting any side effects to a trusted adult.

 

B. Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drugs

        1. Explain why it is illegal to use or possess certain drugs/substances.

        2. Describe the short- and long-term physical effects of tobacco use.

        3. Discuss the impact of second-hand/passive smoke on the health of nonsmokers.

        4. Identify the short- and long-term physical and behavioral effects of alcohol use and abuse.

        5. Identify the physical and behavioral effects of marijuana use.

        6. Explain that brain damage, lung damage, and death can occur from inhaling certain substances, such as solvents, propellants, and medicinal gases.

 

C. Dependency/Addiction and Treatment

        1. Discuss signs that a person might have a problem with the use of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs.

        2. Identify where individuals with a substance abuse problem can get help.

        3. Differentiate among drug use, abuse, and misuse.

        4. Describe how advertising, peers, and adults influence children and teenagers to try alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs.

 

Link to Standard 2.3 Grade K-2

 

Link to Standard 2.3 Grade 5-6

 

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