Health Effect
Name one short-term effect of using cannabis that could make it hard to concentrate in class.
Answer to reveal: Difficulty concentrating / memory problems
Name one person at school a student could talk to if worried about cannabis use.
Teacher, school counsellor, school nurse, or principal
What is one polite way to say “no” if someone offers you cannabis?
“No thanks, I don’t want to,” or “No, I’m not interested.”
What is one reason a person might feel pressured to try cannabis?
Peer pressure / wanting to fit in / curiosity
What is one safe choice a student can make if they are offered cannabis at a party?
Say no and find a trusted adult or a friend who supports your choice.
List one way cannabis can affect a person's coordination or balance for a short time
Slower reaction time / poor coordination / clumsiness
Give one example of a community resource where someone can get help or information about substance use.
Local health clinic, youth mental health centre, helpline, or community centre.
Name a listening skill that helps when a friend wants to talk about a problem.
Making eye contact, nodding, not interrupting, or asking clarifying questions.
Name one rule or law-related factor students should consider about cannabis use.
Legal age restrictions / it may be illegal for minors to possess or use.
Name one healthy activity a student can choose instead of using substances
Playing a sport, joining a club, drawing, spending time with friends who don’t use, or exercising.
Explain one possible emotional effect someone might feel shortly after using cannabis.
Feeling anxious, nervous, or sometimes more relaxed—varies by person.
Explain how a parent or guardian can help a friend who is dealing with substance use.
Listen without judging, encourage them to get help, contact trusted adults or professionals.
Give one example of an “I” statement to use in a disagreement about joining a risky activity.
“I don’t feel comfortable doing that,” or “I feel worried when….”
Explain how media or advertising might influence someone’s choice about drugs.
Media can make drug use look fun or normal, which might make people think it’s safe.
This is the legal age to use cannabis in Ontario.
What is 19 years old?
Identify one short-term health risk for a young person who uses cannabis frequently.
Problems with learning and memory; the brain is still developing in adolescence.
Describe one reason it can be important to reach out for help early if you or a friend are using substances.
Early help can prevent more serious health or safety problems and support better recovery.
Describe one anger-management strategy a student could use if a peer pressures them aggressively.
Take deep breaths, walk away, count to ten, or find a calm adult.
Identify one cultural or family factor that could affect a student’s decision about using substances.
Family values, religious teachings, cultural expectations, or parental rules.
Using cannabis before this body system is fully developed can affect memory, learning, and decision-making.
What is the brain?
Describe one possible long-term effect of regular cannabis use that might affect school performance.
Ongoing memory or attention issues that can lower grades and make learning harder.
Outline the steps a student might take to access school-based support for mental health or substance concerns
Talk to a trusted teacher or counsellor → set up a meeting → discuss concerns → get referrals or a plan.
Explain how being assertive is different from being aggressive when refusing substances.
Assertive means calmly and clearly stating your choice and respecting others; aggressive means being hostile or disrespectful.
Describe a simple step-by-step decision strategy a student can use when offered cannabis (3 steps).
Stop and think → consider possible consequences → choose and act (e.g., say no and leave).
If someone offers you cannabis, one safe and responsible choice is to do this — it shows confidence and keeps you in control.
What is say “no” and walk away (or refuse assertively)?