Mind Over Matter - Teacher's Guide

General Unifying Activity

Objectives
The student will learn the names of the lobes, cortical areas, and structures in the brain.

The student will learn the specific brain areas and structures affected by drug use.

Activity
Students will use reference materials to create three brain maps: one which shows the different regions of the brain, one which shows the areas within the cortex, and one which displays different brain structures. For all of the drugs discussed, students will "mark" their maps (for example, using stickers or colored markers) to specify the areas affected by substance use. [Note: If materials such as molding clay or plaster are available, have groups of students also create three-dimensional brain models, and use small, separate strands of Christmas lights to "mark" the areas affected by drug use.]