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Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Lesson Plans

A Teacher's Resource for Grade 8 and 9 

FASD_kanga.jpgFetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) is the leading cause of birth defects and developmental delay in North American children. Alcohol can cause growth retardation, physical abnormalities, and permanent damage to the fetal brain and the central nervous system which leads to learning disabilities and behavioural problems. 

The goal of the lesson plans is to increase awareness of the effects of alcohol on the fetus so that fewer unborn babies will be exposed to the negative effects of alcohol and drugs. 

Intermediate level students are developing viewpoints and habits that form the foundation of their behaviour in adulthood. The lesson plans plant the seed to promote healthier choices during preconception and prenatally. 

In March 2002, the Porcupine Health Unit, and our partners in the Cochrane District Alcohol and Drug Related Birth Defects Coalition, presented FAS/FAE lesson plans for Grade 8 and Grade 9 to the school boards in our district, for distribution to each school. 

The lesson plans were developed by teachers in the Avon-Maitland School Board for use by teachers, and are based on the Ontario Curriculum requirements. Overheads, activities, tests and answers sheets and are ready to go!

You can book the video "Different Directions: Understanding Fetal Alcohol Syndrome" at the nearest branch office of the Porcupine Health Unit. 

Download the Lesson Plans 

  • FASD Lesson Plan Grade 8 - English
  • FASD Lesson Plan Grade 9 - English 
  • Plan de leçon SAF/EAF 8e année - French
  • Plan de leçon SAF/EAF 9e année - French

Useful links for more information on FASD

  • http://education.alberta.ca/teachers/resources/fasd.aspx Teaching for the Prevention of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), Grades 1 - 12: A Resource for Teachers on Health and Life Skills, and Career and Life Management, Alberta Learning.
  • http://www.fasteen.com FAS Teen Fun Fair is a place where teens can learn about Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD), play educational games, take a survey, download brochures, read stories, and discover some interesting links.

  • http://www.ccsa.ca/fas Canadian Centre on Substance Abuse - Centre canadien de lutte contre l'alcoolisme et les toxicomanies 
  • http://www.fas-saf.com Public Health Agency of Canada – Agence de la santé publique du Canada
  • http://www.bced.gov.bc.ca/specialed/fas B. C. Ministry of Education: "Teaching Students With Fetal Alcohol Syndrome"
  • http://www.motherisk.org/women/alcohol.jsp Motherisk. Up to date, evidence-based information and counseling to pregnant and breastfeeding women, their families, and health care providers regarding alcohol, nicotine and substance use.

last reviewed: September 21, 2010