| Level |
Topic |
Speakers |
Length |
| Difficult |
Drug Addiction and Treatment |
Man – Woman |
03:31 |
Pre-Listening Exercise
Drug addiction is more than just the use of illegal street drugs. People can also struggle with the illegal and overuse of prescription medications. How much do schools educate children in your city or country on these issues and solutions to drug addiction?
Agree or Disagree? Let’s Spark Some Conversation!
These statements are designed to get everyone thinking, moving, and talking! The goal is to explore ideas, share opinions, and get ready for the next part of the lesson.
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In a face-to-face classroom: Read each statement aloud. If you agree, move to one side of the room; if you disagree, move to the other. Talk with your group—why do you feel that way? Then, pair students with members of the other group and have students explain their reasons. Rotate partners for more practice.
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In an online classroom: Use polls, emojis, or the chat box in your online platform to show your opinion. Then, join the conversation as a group or in breakout rooms. What do others think? Do you agree or disagree with them?
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For independent learners: Read each statement and think about your opinion. Then say your answer out loud and explain your reason, as if you’re talking to a classmate. This helps you get ready to speak and join real conversations in English. Consider recording your ideas and check your progress.
- Drug addiction is a health problem, not a crime.
- People can only recover if they want to change.
- Families should do everything they can to help a loved one with addiction.
- Rehab centers should be free for anyone who needs them.
- Addiction can happen to anyone, no matter their background.
- Prescription drugs are sometimes more dangerous than illegal drugs.
- People who relapse after treatment have failed.
- Schools should start teaching about drug risks at a younger age.
- Punishing people for drug use doesn’t solve the real problem.
- Support groups are just as important as medical treatment in recovery.
Idioms
“fall off the wagon” = start drinking again after a period
“My sister went three months without drinking, and then she lost her job and fell off the wagon.”
“do drugs” = to use illegal drugs
“Unfortunately, Matthew’s friends have been doing drugs for a long time.”
Listening Exercise
A. Listen to the recording and answer the questions.
Post-Listening Exercise
Discuss the problems of drug use and drug addiction you have seen in your schools, neighborhood, and city. What are some of the influences that lead people to experiment with drugs?
Online Investigation
Use the internet to find information on these questions:
- What are the warning signs that someone is addicted to drugs?
- What are suggestions on how family and friends can help in such situations?
- What are the penalties for drug possession in two different countries other than your own?
- Under what situations can a drug rehab program be helpful to patients and their families?