Understanding Cannabis: Risks and Realities

Understanding Cannabis: 

Risks and Realities

Learning Objective

At the end of the lesson you will understand the legalities and health risks associated with cannabis, and how these risks can change as you grow older.

What do you already know about cannabis and its risks?

What is Cannabis?

Cannabis is a plant that is often used for its mind-altering effects. It contains a chemical called THC that can affect the brain and body.

Legalities of Cannabis

In many places, cannabis is illegal for recreational use. Laws vary by location, and it's important to understand the legal consequences of using cannabis.

Health Risks of Cannabis

Cannabis use can have short-term and long-term effects on the brain, heart, and mental health. It can also impair memory and learning.

Varying Risks with Age

The risks associated with cannabis can change as you grow older. For example, its impact on brain development is greater during adolescence.

Interactive Activity: Legal or Not?

Present scenarios related to cannabis use and ask students to determine whether the situations would be legal or illegal.

Interactive Discussion: Health Effects

Engage in an open discussion about the potential health effects of cannabis use and encourage students to share their thoughts and concerns.

Case Studies: Age and Risks

Present case studies of individuals at different ages and discuss how the risks of cannabis use may vary for each person.

Key Takeaways

Summarize the legal and health risks of cannabis and emphasize the importance of making informed decisions as they grow older.

Write down 3 things you learned in this lesson.

Have students enter three things they learned in this lesson. With this they can indicate their own learning efficiency of this lesson.

Write down 2 things you want to know more about.

Here, students enter two things they would like to know more about. This not only increases involvement, but also gives them more ownership.

Ask 1 question about something you haven't quite understood yet.

The students indicate here (in question form) with which part of the material they still have difficulty. For the teacher, this not only provides insight into the extent to which the students understand/master the material, but also a good starting point for the next lesson.