Other forms of tobacco
The popularity of shisha/waterpipes in the UK has increased in recent years, with new shisha cafes opening up in many local towns. This increase in popularity means that many people are now using shisha without being aware of the many health risks associated with it. In fact, many children often have their first experience of shisha whilst on holiday in countries such as Turkey and Egypt with parents. This lesson seeks to address the lack of education around the effects of shisha.
Whilst less popular than shisha, the lesson also seeks to increase young people’s knowledge of other forms of smokeless tobacco, some of which are more popular within certain ethnic communities.
Purpose of session
To help young people understand about other forms of tobacco and their impact on health and communities.
Key learning outcomes
- Give examples of how tobacco is sometimes used (other than in cigarettes) and explain their impact on health.
- Explain why people use other forms of tobacco and write a persuasive argument about their impact on communities.
Stage 1 - Demonstrating knowledge and presenting new information
Resources needed:
- PowerPoint projector
- Slides
Key learning outcome
Give examples of how tobacco is sometimes used (other than in cigarettes) and explain how these methods impact health.- Ask pupils 'What is tobacco?' to establish a basic understanding that tobacco is the leaf in a cigarette that contains nicotine, amongst other chemicals. Use Slide 3 to show a picture and explanation.
- In small groups, ask pupils to try and think of other ways that people use tobacco. Take feedback.
- Use Slides 5-10, to present a basic understanding of chewing tobacco and shisha.
Stage 2 - Applying and reflecting
Resources needed:
- PowerPoint projector
- Slides
- Internet access
Key learning outcome
Explain why people use other forms of tobacco and write a persuasive argument about their impact on communities.- Present Slides 11 and 12 'Who uses smokeless tobacco and who uses shisha?'
- A new shisha café has opened in town. In pairs, write a journalistic newspaper article explaining the effect that it is likely to have on the town. Access to the internet will enhance their work. Encourage them to: explain what shisha is, consider who might be attracted to the venue, think about how it might affect the town in both the short and long term.
- Feedback and read articles.
Further support
This session focuses on how tobacco can be used in other forms, including in shisha and chewing tobacco. A good introduction to the session would involve discussing with pupils what they already know about smoking. Remind pupils who have family members who smoke that they can share new information with them.
Further information
If pupils need further information about smoking in general, you can direct them to the Hampshire Stop Smoking Service, Smokefree Hampshire.