Substance Abuse Discussion Prompts & Pause Points

Read the movie description that appears below the movie player on the Substance Abuse Topic Page. Then use the following prompts to encourage class discussion before, during, and after watching the movie

Before the Movie

What do you think is the difference between using and abusing drugs?

Why do you think people get addicted to drugs?

During the Movie (Pause Points)

Stop at the following times in the movie and ask questions or prompt a discussion to keep students focused and to assess their understanding before moving on:

Timecode 0:47: Why is it important to follow the instructed dosage for medications?

Timecode 1:39: How do stimulants and depressants differ?

Timecode 1:54: What makes opioids highly addictive?

Timecode 2:27: What effect do hallucinogens have on the ability to think?

Timecode 2:40: What makes inhalants dangerous?

Timecode 3:26: Why might people on drugs make poor decisions?

Timecode 4:15: What are some signs that someone has a drug problem?

Timecode 4:26: What are some things you can do if you think someone has a drug problem?

After the Movie

What did you learn about abusing drugs?

What are some ways you can help someone with a drug problem?

*BrainPOP’s Discussion Questions and Prompts align to CCSS Speaking and Listening Standards.