About This Lesson
Ask, Listen, Learn in partnership with Discovery Education teaches kids what the brain does, what alcohol does to it, and what that does to them! But underage drinking is not the only risky behavior that presents itself to kids; they may come across peer pressure in terms of underage cannabis use as well. It’s important to address the risks of underage cannabis use with kids, especially as it becomes legal in some states across the country.
In this activity, students will investigate the parts of the developing brain most affected by marijuana use. They will create an infographic that highlights how these brain parts function regularly, compared with how they may function if the developing brain is impaired by cannabis, and they will conclude by discussing the increased harm associated with adolescent marijuana use.
Learning Objectives
Students will:
- Research the main functions of the developing brain.
- Describe the effects of cannabis on the endocannabinoid system, as well as the brain and body.
- Analyze the dangers associated with adolescent cannabis use.
Time required:
- 60-75 minutes
Student Materials
- Device with the ability for the teacher to play/project video
- Devices with Internet access, enough for half the class
- Handout 1: Three Truths and A Lie, one copy per student
- How Marijuana Affects Your Developing Brain video, to project
- Handout 2: Endocannabinoids and the Brain, enough for half the class
- Handout 3: Infographic, enough for half the class
