You have been hired by the parents of Don, a sixth grade student. They suspect their child of smoking or about to start. He's gone through D.A.R.E. and listened to the lectures of his parents and teachers. However, he thinks they are all just handing him a line. After all, he sees his aunt and uncle smoking and figures it isn't really so bad. In fact, he thinks it's pretty cool. But he might listen to you. After all, you're his peer. That's what his parents are counting on. They've hired you to convince him to quit smoking. To do so, you must show your commitment to the fight against youth using tobacco. Create a memorable message for him. Do a good job - it could be a matter of life and death.

The Task

Your client's son must be approached in a creative way. To earn his respect, you must first demonstrate your knowledge of tobacco and your commitment to fight its use by young people. So here's what you are being paid to do:

• Within your Home Team, take on one of the investigative roles listed below.
• You will then meet with other students who have your role to research and answer specific questions. This is your Research Team.
• As you research the questions, all members of your Research Team will need to record the answers in their individual research journal. Be sure and site all sources.
• When you have finished your research, you will go back to your Home Team and discuss your findings with your fellow students.

As a Home Team, you will:

• 1. Create a poster,ad, rap song or skit that effectively conveys the message to Don you want to get across. Use all aspects of your individual research in your product.
  • Make sure your finished product is creative, appealing and professional looking or sounding

    Does your home team get their point across?

    Is it thought-provoking and interesting to look at or hear?

  2. Present this product to Don and his parents. It's the moment of truth. Can you get Don to change his mind? Do the best job you can.

  3. Demonstrate your commitment to fight tobacco use by writing a letter to the Food and Drug Administration. Information from each of your team members should be included in this call for action. Is your letter written in proper form and expressing a clear opinion substantiated by facts?

  For guide lines on writing this paper click here.

Investigative Roles:

• Doctor - Examine why smoking is so deadly. Or is it?
• Lawyer - Who has waged a battle against the tobacco industry? What have been the results?
• Historian - How long ago did people start smoking? You will dig into the past to find the answer.
• Advertising Executive - Take a look at the ads in magazines. You decide what the message is to young adults.

Evaluations

• Student Self Evaluation
• Student Evaluation by the Teacher