Lesson Plan

Peer-Proof Choices Lesson Plan

Students will learn about the dangers of drugs and alcohol, recognize common peer-pressure tactics, understand the real-life consequences of substance use (school, legal, health), practice refusal skills through scenarios, and develop strategies to stay safe and support friends.

Eighth graders face increasing peer influence; discussing consequences plus refusal and support skills builds resilience, helps them make healthy choices, and fosters supportive friendships before high school.

Audience

Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Prepare Materials

10 minutes

Step 1

Warm-Up Activity

5 minutes

Step 2

Group Discussion

7 minutes

Step 3

Interactive Activity

8 minutes

Step 4

Role-Play Practice

7 minutes

Step 5

Reflection & Wrap-Up

3 minutes

lenny

Slide Deck

Peer-Proof Choices

Welcome students and introduce the lesson’s purpose. Explain that today we’ll learn how to recognize and resist peer pressure around drugs and alcohol, and support friends.

Today's Agenda

Outline the flow of the lesson so students know what to expect. Emphasize that participation and honest sharing are valued.

Warm-Up: Peer Pressure in One Word

Ask students to write one word on the board or sticky note that pops into their head when they hear “peer pressure.” Give 1 minute, then have them pair up to compare and share.

Recognizing Peer-Pressure Tactics

Distribute the [Peer-Pressure Tactics Handout](#peer-pressure-tactics-handout). Review each tactic and ask for student examples. Chart responses.

Scenario Analysis

Split into groups of 3–4. Give each group several [Scenario Role-Play Cards](#scenario-role-play-cards) and a copy of the [Refusal Skills Checklist](#refusal-skills-checklist). Guide them to identify the tactic and brainstorm responses.

Role-Play Practice

Pair students and assign each pair one of the shared scenarios. Encourage them to practice refusal language, confident tone, and safe exit strategies. Provide real-time feedback.

Reflection & Wrap-Up

Hand out the [Reflection Journal Template](#reflection-journal-template). Ask students to complete the prompts silently, then invite volunteers to share. Reinforce supportive peer relationships.

lenny

Worksheet

lenny
lenny

Worksheet

lenny
lenny

Worksheet

lenny
lenny

Journal

lenny
lenny
lenny

Peer-Proof Choices

user image

Christine Joulain

Tier 2
For Schools
lenny-learning-logo

Lenny Learning

Create Lesson

CASEL

Health & Wellness

Behavioral Supports

Counseling & Therapy

Family Engagement

School Climate

Special Education

Academic Integration

Seasonal

Career & Life Skills

Arts & Creativity

My Lessons

My Lessons

Video Library

Video Library

Support

Support

Log In