Lesson Plan
Science of Addiction Guide
Students will understand the cellular mechanisms and long-term health effects of alcohol and tobacco use and apply this knowledge to make informed personal health decisions via guided slides and reflective journaling.
Connecting scientific concepts of addiction to real‐world choices empowers students to evaluate risks and develop healthy coping strategies, reducing substance use initiation and supporting long‐term wellbeing.
Audience
Time
Approach
Materials
Prep
Prepare Materials
5 minutes
Step 1
Introduction & Objectives
5 minutes
Step 2
Chemical Mechanisms Exploration
10 minutes
Step 3
Long-Term Effects Discussion
7 minutes
Step 4
Personal Reflection Worksheet
12 minutes
Step 5
Exit Reflection & Goal Setting
6 minutes
Lesson Plan
Science of Addiction Guide
Students will understand how alcohol and tobacco interact with cells and cause long-term health effects, then apply this knowledge to set personal health goals.
Connecting the science of addiction to real-life health choices empowers students to make informed decisions, recognize risks, and develop strategies to avoid or reduce substance use.
Audience
Time
Approach
Materials
Prep
Prepare Materials
5 minutes
Step 1
Introduction & Objectives
5 minutes
Step 2
Chemical Mechanisms Exploration
10 minutes
Step 3
Long-Term Effects Discussion
7 minutes
Step 4
Personal Reflection Worksheet
12 minutes
Step 5
Exit Reflection & Goal Setting
6 minutes
Slide Deck
Cellular Impact of Alcohol & Tobacco
Alcohol & Neurotransmitter Balance
Nicotine Binding to Cell Receptors
Disrupted Oxygen Transport
Chronic Cellular Damage
Guiding Questions
Key Takeaways
Worksheet
