Lesson plan: Skin cancer prevention
June 14, 2000
Web posted at 7:03 p.m. EST (2303 GMT)
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Objectives
Students will:
- Recognize skin cancer as the most common cancer in the United States.
- Research and identify risk factors of skin cancer.
- Explain the dangers of overexposure to ultraviolet rays of the sun.
- Identify causes as well as prevention of skin cancer.
- Create a public service announcement directed toward youth audiences.
Standards
National Health Education Standards in conjunction with the American Cancer Society
High school students will demonstrate the ability to practice health-enhancing behaviors and reduce health risks.
Suggested time
1-2 class periods
Materials
CNNfyi article, "Harmful rays of light"
Video recorders
Any needed props for public service announcements
Procedure
1. Ask students the following questions:
- How much time do you spend in the sun during the summer? Do you wear sunscreen? Do you wear protective clothing in the summer? Is your outside activity limited in the summer? What is skin cancer? How is it caused? How is it prevented?
2. Have students read the CNNfyi article "Harmful rays of light," then ask:
- Do you think that an aggressive campaign for the prevention of skin cancer is necessary? Why or why not? Who is at risk for skin cancer? Why are these persons at risk? How many new cases are expected to be diagnosed this year? About how long does it take for the sun's ultraviolet rays to affect your skin? How can your behavior today prevent possible problems later regarding skin cancer? Can you list the three ways that you can prevent skin cancer?
- How would you rephrase or interpret this statement from CDC Director Jeffrey P. Koplan: "What you do when you are 8, 10, 15 and 20 can make a big difference when you're 40." Discuss various interpretations from students. What steps will you begin taking this summer for your protection?
3. Allow students to research skin cancer causes and prevention using Internet sites below. They may work in groups of four to five students to find additional information about the stages and types of skin cancers. Students might want to research the advantages and recommended levels of sunscreen as well as the difference between ultraviolet-A and ultraviolet-B rays.
Evaluation
Have students develop and videotape a public service announcement for their peers about the risk of overexposure to the sun's ultraviolet rays and the prevention of skin cancer. Direct them to create and use visuals that will grasp students' attention while informing them of the dangers of sun exposure.
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