The Brain: Understanding Neurobiology Through the Study of Addiction

  • Helps students understand the basic concepts in neurobiology
  • Grades 9–12 | © 2000 | Standards based
  • Five lessons designed to be taught in sequence for approximately two weeks, featuring web-based components including interactive database and simulations
  • Developed using the BSCS 5E Instructional Model
  • This complimentary module is available from National Institutes of Health (NIH)

The Brain: Understanding Neurobiology Through the Study of Addiction gives students a fundamental knowledge of how the neurons in the brain convey information to regulate diverse functions. Students are provided with factual information on how drugs alter brain function by changing the way neurons relay information to other neurons. This module presents the science that underlies why addiction should be treated as a chronic disease rather than a moral weakness. Additionally, students learn the importance of scientific research and students are encouraged to think about the relationships among knowledge, choice, behavior, and human health. The real-life context of the module's classroom lessons is engaging, and the knowledge gained can be applied immediately to students' lives.

This curriculum supplement with CD-ROM was funded by the National Institutes of Health Office of Science Education (NIH OSE). It was developed by BSCS in cooperation with the National Institute on Drug Abuse, part of the NIH, and Videodiscovery, Inc. of Seattle.

Student Lessons

  1. The Brain: What’s Going On in There?
  2. Neurons, Brain Chemistry, and Neurotransmission
  3. Drugs Change the Way Neurons Communicate
  4. Drug Abuse and Addiction
  5. Drug Addiction Is a Disease – So What Do We Do about It?

To order your complimentary copy of this supplement or for more information, visit the NIH OSE website.