GANGS #1
Alternative Homework "SRA" (Skills Reinforcement Assignment)
Answer the following questions according to the
information provided. Ask for help if needed.
"Research has shown that potential gang members often have the following characteristics:
Low self esteem
Easily persuaded by peer pressure
Aggressive and antisocial behavior
Poor school performance
Low school attendance
Low academic goals
Feel that teachers don't care
Get bored easily
Not well disciplined at home
Poor communication skills
Lack positive role models
Drug abuse within the home
Frequent parental arguments
Prefer to follow rather than lead
Feel inadequate or unworthy
Drug abuse in community
Peers already associated with gangs
Lack of positive relationships w/ peers
Answer each question on separate paper using complete sentences, proper grammar and correct spelling and punctuation.
(Note: a complete sentence makes sense on its own, without having to refer back to the question.)
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
List three of the above that have to do with how potential gang members often feel about themselves.
List three of the above that have to do with the home a potential gang member often comes from.
List three of the above that have to do with the neighborhood a potential gang member often lives in.
Pick any one of these characteristics and tell why it is often associated with gang members.
Do you think this list is mostly true? Why or why not?
GANGS #1
Alternative Homework "SRA" (Skills Reinforcement Assignment)
Answer the following questions according to the
information provided. Ask for help if needed.
"Research has shown that potential gang members often have the following characteristics:
Low self esteem
Easily persuaded by peer pressure
Aggressive and antisocial behavior
Poor school performance
Low school attendance
Low academic goals
Feel that teachers don't care
Get bored easily
Not well disciplined at home
Poor communication skills
Lack positive role models
Drug abuse within the home
Frequent parental arguments
Prefer to follow rather than lead
Feel inadequate or unworthy
Drug abuse in community
Peers already associated with gangs
Lack of positive relationships w/ peers
Answer each question on separate paper using complete sentences, proper grammar and correct spelling and punctuation.
(Note: a complete sentence makes sense on its own, without having to refer back to the question.)
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
List three of the above that have to do with how potential gang members often feel about themselves.
List three of the above that have to do with the home a potential gang member often comes from.
List three of the above that have to do with the neighborhood a potential gang member often lives in.
Pick any one of these characteristics and tell why it is often associated with gang members.
Do you think this list is mostly true? Why or why not?
GANGS #1
Alternative Homework "SRA" (Skills Reinforcement Assignment)
Answer the following questions according to the
information provided. Ask for help if needed.
"Research has shown that potential gang members often have the following characteristics:
Low self esteem
Easily persuaded by peer pressure
Aggressive and antisocial behavior
Poor school performance
Low school attendance
Low academic goals
Feel that teachers don't care
Get bored easily
Not well disciplined at home
Poor communication skills
Lack positive role models
Drug abuse within the home
Frequent parental arguments
Prefer to follow rather than lead
Feel inadequate or unworthy
Drug abuse in community
Peers already associated with gangs
Lack of positive relationships w/ peers
Answer each question on separate paper using complete sentences, proper grammar and correct spelling and punctuation.
(Note: a complete sentence makes sense on its own, without having to refer back to the question.)
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
List three of the above that have to do with how potential gang members often feel about themselves.
List three of the above that have to do with the home a potential gang member often comes from.
List three of the above that have to do with the neighborhood a potential gang member often lives in.
Pick any one of these characteristics and tell why it is often associated with gang members.
Do you think this list is mostly true? Why or why not?
GANGS #2 Alternative Homework "SRA" (Skills Reinforcement Assignment) Answer the following questions according
to the information provided. Ask for help if needed.
'"Research has shown that in 2 out of 3 gangs, membership is seen as a lifetime commitment, and that 80% of gang
recruitment occurs through family, friends, and drug-dealing activities. Most youth who join a gang want to join because
they view it as a status symbol, and only 20% of youth join because they are forced to through intimidation or violence.
Those with family members tied to a gang often become members automatically.
Gang members often try to persuade others to join by promising benefits of membership such as prestige, power,
excitement or money. They may stress it is the new recruit's responsibility to protect the neighborhood from outsiders. If
they are ignored, they may be threatened, robbed, or beaten until they give in to the pressure. Once a person joins a gang
there is usually a period of initiation. This is a time when prospective members will go to any extent to prove themselves to
the current gang members. Most times this involves some sort of physical and psychological abuse."
Answer each question on separate paper using complete sentences, proper grammar and correct spelling and punctuation.
(Note: a complete sentence makes sense on its own, without having to refer back to the question.)
1.
2.
3.
4.
What are the three most common ways that gang members are recruited?
What do gang members often promise to new recruits?
What is the first thing gang members usually do to new recruits?
Joining a gang sometimes has some "positive" short-term benefits, and negative long-term consequences. What
might some of the short-term benefits be?
5. What are at least three of the negative long-term consequences?
GANGS #2 Alternative Homework "SRA" (Skills Reinforcement Assignment) Answer the following questions according to
the information provided. Ask for help if needed.
'"Research has shown that in 2 out of 3 gangs, membership is seen as a lifetime commitment, and that 80% of gang
recruitment occurs through family, friends, and drug-dealing activities. Most youth who join a gang want to join because
they view it as a status symbol, and only 20% of youth join because they are forced to through intimidation or violence.
Those with family members tied to a gang often become members automatically.
Gang members often try to persuade others to join by promising benefits of membership such as prestige, power,
excitement or money. They may stress it is the new recruit's responsibility to protect the neighborhood from outsiders. If
they are ignored, they may be threatened, robbed, or beaten until they give in to the pressure. Once a person joins a gang
there is usually a period of initiation. This is a time when prospective members will go to any extent to prove themselves to
the current gang members. Most times this involves some sort of physical and psychological abuse."
Answer each question on separate paper using complete sentences, proper grammar and correct spelling and punctuation.
(Note: a complete sentence makes sense on its own, without having to refer back to the question.)
1.
2.
3.
4.
What are the three most common ways that gang members are recruited?
What do gang members often promise to new recruits?
What is the first thing gang members usually do to new recruits?
Joining a gang sometimes has some "positive" short-term benefits, and negative long-term consequences. What
might some of the short-term benefits be?
5. What are at least three of the negative long-term consequences?
GANGS #2 Alternative Homework "SRA" (Skills Reinforcement Assignment) Answer the following questions according
to the information provided. Ask for help if needed.
'"Research has shown that in 2 out of 3 gangs, membership is seen as a lifetime commitment, and that 80% of gang
recruitment occurs through family, friends, and drug-dealing activities. Most youth who join a gang want to join because
they view it as a status symbol, and only 20% of youth join because they are forced to through intimidation or violence.
Those with family members tied to a gang often become members automatically.
Gang members often try to persuade others to join by promising benefits of membership such as prestige, power,
excitement or money. They may stress it is the new recruit's responsibility to protect the neighborhood from outsiders. If
they are ignored, they may be threatened, robbed, or beaten until they give in to the pressure. Once a person joins a gang
there is usually a period of initiation. This is a time when prospective members will go to any extent to prove themselves to
the current gang members. Most times this involves some sort of physical and psychological abuse."
Answer each question on separate paper using complete sentences, proper grammar and correct spelling and punctuation.
(Note: a complete sentence makes sense on its own, without having to refer back to the question.)
1.
2.
3.
4.
What are the three most common ways that gang members are recruited?
What do gang members often promise to new recruits?
What is the first thing gang members usually do to new recruits?
Joining a gang sometimes has some "positive" short-term benefits, and negative long-term consequences. What
might some of the short-term benefits be?
5. What are at least three of the negative long-term consequences?
Answer the following questions according to
the information provided. Ask for help if needed.
"Some students carry weapons such as a knife or a gun to show off for friends; some as a means to protect
themselves; others plan to "even the score" or end a long-standing conflict. A student carrying a weapon will
temporarily gain the respect and fear of some, but will issue a challenge to others. The weapon begins as a symbol
used to gain control but it often becomes a harmful or deadly tool used when that control is lost.
The presence of a weapon tends to lead to the rapid escalation of a conflict. Snap decisions become
deadly when a weapon is at hand. The best strategies to resolve a conflict when in the presence of a weapon are to
avoid the person or abandon the situation.
Although over seven youth are saved for every one that dies from a stab wound, those that survive often
end up permanently injured or paralyzed. Gunshot wounds are even more serious, with extraction of th bullet
often being required before the anesthetic can fully take effect."
WEAPONS Alternative Homework "SRA" (Skills Reinforcement Assignment)
Answer each question on separate paper using complete sentences, proper grammar and correct spelling and punctuation.
(Note: a complete sentence makes sense on its own, without having to refer back to the question.)
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
What are 4 reasons students often carry a weapon?
Weapons are often seen as a way to control a situation, but what happens when that control is lost?
In addition to the possibility of causing death, what also often results from using weapons?
What are at least two alternatives to using a weapon?
Do you think it should be legal to carry a concealed weapon? Why or why not?
Alternative Homework "SRA" (Skills Reinforcement Assignment) Answer the following questions according to
the information provided. Ask for help if needed.
"Some students carry weapons such as a knife or a gun to show off for friends; some as a means to protect
themselves; others plan to "even the score" or end a long-standing conflict. A student carrying a weapon will
temporarily gain the respect and fear of some, but will issue a challenge to others. The weapon begins as a symbol
used to gain control but it often becomes a harmful or deadly tool used when that control is lost.
The presence of a weapon tends to lead to the rapid escalation of a conflict. Snap decisions become
deadly when a weapon is at hand. The best strategies to resolve a conflict when in the presence of a weapon are to
avoid the person or abandon the situation.
Although over seven youth are saved for every one that dies from a stab wound, those that survive often
end up permanently injured or paralyzed. Gunshot wounds are even more serious, with extraction of th bullet
often being required before the anesthetic can fully take effect."
WEAPONS
Answer each question on separate paper using complete sentences, proper grammar and correct spelling and punctuation.
(Note: a complete sentence makes sense on its own, without having to refer back to the question.)
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
What are 4 reasons students often carry a weapon?
Weapons are often seen as a way to control a situation, but what happens when that control is lost?
In addition to the possibility of causing death, what also often results from using weapons?
What are at least two alternatives to using a weapon?
Do you think it should be legal to carry a concealed weapon? Why or why not?
Answer the following questions according to
the information provided. Ask for help if needed.
"Some students carry weapons such as a knife or a gun to show off for friends; some as a means to protect
themselves; others plan to "even the score" or end a long-standing conflict. A student carrying a weapon will
temporarily gain the respect and fear of some, but will issue a challenge to others. The weapon begins as a symbol
used to gain control but it often becomes a harmful or deadly tool used when that control is lost.
The presence of a weapon tends to lead to the rapid escalation of a conflict. Snap decisions become
deadly when a weapon is at hand. The best strategies to resolve a conflict when in the presence of a weapon are to
avoid the person or abandon the situation.
Although over seven youth are saved for every one that dies from a stab wound, those that survive often
end up permanently injured or paralyzed. Gunshot wounds are even more serious, with extraction of th bullet
often being required before the anesthetic can fully take effect."
WEAPONS Alternative Homework "SRA" (Skills Reinforcement Assignment)
Answer each question on separate paper using complete sentences, proper grammar and correct spelling and punctuation.
(Note: a complete sentence makes sense on its own, without having to refer back to the question.)
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
What are 4 reasons students often carry a weapon?
Weapons are often seen as a way to control a situation, but what happens when that control is lost?
In addition to the possibility of causing death, what also often results from using weapons?
What are at least two alternatives to using a weapon?
Do you think it should be legal to carry a concealed weapon? Why or why not?
GOALS #1 Alternative Homework "SRA" (Skills Reinforcement Assignment)
Answer the following questions according to
the information provided. Ask for help if needed.
"A goal is an aim or end result that requires effort. It is the thought or belief that something admirable is attainable.
Goals are directly related to a persons ambitions, desires, and hopes. People set goals for a variety of life situations.
Short-term goals are goals that you plan to achieve right away. These can be goals for one hour from now, one
day from now, or even one week from now. Some short term goals might be getting today's homework done, or doing
your chores for one week, or getting through the day without letting your temper get the best of you.
Long-term goals are goals that you plan to achieve a certain amount of time from now. There will probably be
several steps (or short-term goals) to achieve before the long-term goal can happen. Some long-term goals may be
moving on to the next grade level, or winning a competition, or planning a career."
Answer each question on separate paper using complete sentences, proper grammar and correct spelling and punctuation.
(Note: a complete sentence makes sense on its own, without having to refer back to the question.)
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
In your own words, what is a goal?
How are short-term and long-term goals different from each other?
At this point, a best as you know, what is a career or life goal you have?
What are three short term goals you can set for yourself in order to help you reach a career or life goal?
How does coming to Young Life help you with any short or long-term goals you have?
GOALS #1
Alternative Homework "SRA" (Skills Reinforcement Assignment)
Answer the following questions according to
the information provided. Ask for help if needed.
"A goal is an aim or end result that requires effort. It is the thought or belief that something admirable is attainable.
Goals are directly related to a persons ambitions, desires, and hopes. People set goals for a variety of life situations.
Short-term goals are goals that you plan to achieve right away. These can be goals for one hour from now, one
day from now, or even one week from now. Some short term goals might be getting today's homework done, or doing
your chores for one week, or getting through the day without letting your temper get the best of you.
Long-term goals are goals that you plan to achieve a certain amount of time from now. There will probably be
several steps (or short-term goals) to achieve before the long-term goal can happen. Some long-term goals may be
moving on to the next grade level, or winning a competition, or planning a career."
Answer each question on separate paper using complete sentences, proper grammar and correct spelling and punctuation.
(Note: a complete sentence makes sense on its own, without having to refer back to the question.)
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
In your own words, what is a goal?
How are short-term and long-term goals different from each other?
At this point, a best as you know, what is a career or life goal you have?
What are three short term goals you can set for yourself in order to help you reach a career or life goal?
How does coming to Young Life help you with any short or long-term goals you have?
GOALS #1
Alternative Homework "SRA" (Skills Reinforcement Assignment)
Answer the following questions according to
the information provided. Ask for help if needed.
"A goal is an aim or end result that requires effort. It is the thought or belief that something admirable is attainable.
Goals are directly related to a persons ambitions, desires, and hopes. People set goals for a variety of life situations.
Short-term goals are goals that you plan to achieve right away. These can be goals for one hour from now, one
day from now, or even one week from now. Some short term goals might be getting today's homework done, or doing
your chores for one week, or getting through the day without letting your temper get the best of you.
Long-term goals are goals that you plan to achieve a certain amount of time from now. There will probably be
several steps (or short-term goals) to achieve before the long-term goal can happen. Some long-term goals may be
moving on to the next grade level, or winning a competition, or planning a career."
Answer each question on separate paper using complete sentences, proper grammar and correct spelling and punctuation.
(Note: a complete sentence makes sense on its own, without having to refer back to the question.)
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
In your own words, what is a goal?
How are short-term and long-term goals different from each other?
At this point, a best as you know, what is a career or life goal you have?
What are three short term goals you can set for yourself in order to help you reach a career or life goal?
How does coming to Young Life help you with any short or long-term goals you have?
ANGER #1
Alternative Homework "SRA" (Skills Reinforcement Assignment)
Answer the following questions according to the
information provided. Ask for help if needed.
"Anger is a deep, strong feeling that is aroused when a person feels a sense of injury or injustice. Anger can range in
intensity from mild irritation to fury and rage. It is often accompanied by an impulse to retaliate. Anger is a universal
emotion, as personal injustice makes everyone angry. Anger involves the mind, the body, and the behaviors that people have
learned to depend on over the years in coping with emotions. There are some situations where anger can actually be
constructive and healthy. Feeling angry is a normal part of life. Yet in most situations unleashing anger can do nothing but
harm. Having angry feelings is perfectly acceptable. Yet acting inappropriately to those feelings is not. Young people need
to focus on how anger is expressed as well as the cause of the angry feelings. "
Answer each question on separate paper using complete sentences, proper grammar and correct spelling and punctuation.
(Note: a complete sentence makes sense on its own, without having to refer back to the question.)
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
In your own words, what is anger?
What are three ways anger involves a person?
How does anger involve the mind - what do people often think when they are angry?
At what point does anger become a bad thing?
Tell about a way in which you handle your anger and whether this is a good or bad way to handle it. Why?
ANGER #2
Answer the following questions according to the
information provided. Ask for help if needed.
"Anger stops us from thinking, feeling, and acting clearly. When we are very angry, it is hard to think clearly. That
stops us from finding better ways to act. We end up doing something we didn't want to do before we think about the
consequences. We become angry much more often than we have to. We use anger to defend ourselves when we don't need
to. It's easier to get angry than to feel embarrassed. It's easier to hurt others than to have our pride or our feelings hurt. We
need to learn not to use anger in these ways. When we become angry we may become aggressive and say or do things that
hurt others. When we become angry, people think about us differently. If we become angry easily, others might begin to see
us as a bully. Who would want to spend time with someone who is always mad? All of us feel angry sometimes. But it is
aggressive behavior that hurts people. If you can learn to handle your angry feelings, then your anger will not lead to
aggression."
Answer each question on separate paper using complete sentences, proper grammar and correct spelling and punctuation.
(Note: a complete sentence makes sense on its own, without having to refer back to the question.)
Alternative Homework "SRA" (Skills Reinforcement Assignment)
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Why does anger often lead us to act in ways we are sorry about later?
What are two negative reasons people get defensive when they are angry?
What are two negative results of allowing anger to cause us to act aggressively toward others?
How do you feel about people who seem to be angry all the time?
Describe a recent situation that made you feel angry. How did you handle it?
HYPOTHERMIA
Alternative Homework "SRA" (Skills Reinforcement Assignment) Answer the following questions according to the
information provided. Ask for help if needed.
Exposure to cold can cause injury or serious illness such as frostbite or hypothermia. The likelihood of injury or illness depends on factors
such as physical activity, clothing, wind, humidity, working and living conditions, and a person's age and state of health. Follow these tips
to stay safe in cold weather:
 Dress appropriately before going outdoors. The air temperature does not have to be below freezing for someone to
experience cold emergencies such as hypothermia and frostbite. Wind speed can create dangerously cold conditions even
when the temperature is not that low.
 Dress in layers so you can adjust to changing conditions. Avoid overdressing or overexertion that can lead to heat illness.
Most of your body heat is lost through your head so wear a hat, preferably one that covers your ears. Mittens provide more
warmth to your hands than gloves.
 Wear waterproof, insulated boots to help avoid hypothermia or frostbite by keeping your feet warm and dry and to maintain
your footing in ice and snow. Get out of wet clothes immediately and warm the core body temperature with a blanket or warm
fluids like hot cider or soup.
 Avoid drinking caffeine or alcohol if you expect you or someone you are trying to help has hypothermia or frostbite.
Recognize the symptoms of hypothermia that can be a serious medical condition: confusion, dizziness, exhaustion and severe shivering.
Seek medical attention immediately if you have these symptoms. Recognize frostbite warning signs: gray, white or yellow skin
discoloration, numbness, waxy feeling skin. Seek medical attention immediately if you have these symptoms.
Answer each question on separate paper using complete sentences, proper grammar and correct spelling and
punctuation. (Note: a complete sentence makes sense on its own, without having to refer back to the question.)
1. What are five factors that affect our ability to handle cold weather?
2. Why should we be aware of the wind speed when we are outside in cold conditions?
3. How should we dress for cold weather?
4. What are two ways we can raise our core body temperature?
5. What are three symptoms of hypothermia?
DRUG FACTS
Alternative Homework "SRA" (Skills Reinforcement Assignment) Answer the following questions according to the
information provided. Ask for help if needed.
Marijuana is a drug made from the dried leaves and flowers of the hemp plant. When smoked, it affects the body in different
ways. Obviously, it causes short-term feelings of pleasure - otherwise people wouldn't want to use it. However, it can cause the heart rate
to speed up to 160 beats per minute. It causes dilated blood vessels, which can be noticed as the whites of the eyes become bloodshot. It
often causes feelings of panic accompanied by sweating, dry mouth, or trouble breathing. It causes a daily cough and frequent chest colds
in much the same way as tobacco smoking does. It also greatly increases the risk of cancer. On the positive side, it also can help to
relieve some of the side effects of chemotherapy treatments for people who have cancer.
Marijuana contains well over 50 different drugs. One of these is a drug called tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC for short. THC
travels through the bloodstream and attaches itself to the nerve cells in the brain. It affects the way these cells receive information, and
leads to changes in the nerve cell itself. THC causes emotions and judgement to be out of balance, and can harm both short and long
term memory. Because it replaces chemicals naturally produced by the brain, marijuana users can become emotionally dependant on the
drug. They begin to believe that they cannot be happy without it, and marijuana users become selfish when people and other things in life
become less important to them.
Answer each question on separate paper using complete sentences, proper grammar and correct spelling and
punctuation. (Note: a complete sentence makes sense on its own, without having to refer back to the question.)
1. What are three ways in which marijuana affects the body?
2. What are two ways in which marijuana affects the brain?
3. How can marijuana affect a person’s character?
4. Why do you think people decide to smoke marijuana?
5. In the Bible, Satan often tries to get people to find quick shortcuts to the true joy that only God can give, but they
only lead to further despair and sadness in the end. Do you think marijuana might be one of these false shortcuts?
Why or why not?
REFUSAL SKILLS #1
Alternative Homework "SRA" (Skills Reinforcement Assignment) Answer the following questions according to the
information provided. Ask for help if needed.
Its natural to want to fit in and be "part of the crowd". Some young people feel that in order to be accepted they should be willing
to do things that they know are wrong or harmful. Young people are often pressured to use alchohol or other drugs, to have sex, or
participate in criminal activity. Learning good refusal skills can help you to take control in a difficult situation and avoid trouble. You can
learn to say "no" with confidence and assert yourself without fear of losing your friends.
There are many ways to refuse when pressured by your friends to do something you don't want to do. The key is to be creative!
One way is to think of something better to do. You could say "I'd rather go play basketball", or "Let's watch that new show on TV".
Another way is to give your friend a compliment. Try these: "I like you much better sober", or "You're too smart to use drugs." or
"I hate to see someone with so much talent blow it."
You could also just change the subject. This lets your friend know that you still want to hang around him or her, but are just not
interested in their suggestion. Or you could use humor. Humor has a way of catching people off guard and taking the attention off of the
problem. You could say something crazy like "Doing that will make you grow an extra head", or "I'm crazy enough without taking drugs", or
"I can't - I have a date with an alien!".
Finally, you might just want to confront the problem head-on. Ask your friend why would they want to do such a thing. Ask them
if your friendship depends on it. Point out the difficult position their peer pressure is putting you in. Point out the risks and consequences
of their actions.
Whatever technique you use, be firm! Decide ahead of time what your values are. Ask God for His help, and look to the Bible for
guidance. If you are unsure as to what to do, you will only be pressured even more. If all else fails, you can always just ignore the offer
and walk away.
Answer each question on separate paper using complete sentences, proper grammar and correct spelling and
punctuation. (Note: a complete sentence makes sense on its own, without having to refer back to the question.)
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
What are "Refusal Skills"?
What are two reasons it is good to have refusal skills?
What are the five ways to refuse listed above?
Pick 3 of the 5 refusal methods and give your own example for each.
Why do you think people get pressured even more when they are unsure of their own values?
REFUSAL SKILLS #1
Alternative Homework "SRA" (Skills Reinforcement Assignment) Answer the following questions according to the
information provided. Ask for help if needed.
Its natural to want to fit in and be "part of the crowd". Some young people feel that in order to be accepted they should be willing
to do things that they know are wrong or harmful. Young people are often pressured to use alchohol or other drugs, to have sex, or
participate in criminal activity. Learning good refusal skills can help you to take control in a difficult situation and avoid trouble. You can
learn to say "no" with confidence and assert yourself without fear of losing your friends.
There are many ways to refuse when pressured by your friends to do something you don't want to do. The key is to be creative!
One way is to think of something better to do. You could say "I'd rather go play basketball", or "Let's watch that new show on TV".
Another way is to give your friend a compliment. Try these: "I like you much better sober", or "You're too smart to use drugs." or
"I hate to see someone with so much talent blow it."
You could also just change the subject. This lets your friend know that you still want to hang around him or her, but are just not
interested in their suggestion. Or you could use humor. Humor has a way of catching people off guard and taking the attention off of the
problem. You could say something crazy like "Doing that will make you grow an extra head", or "I'm crazy enough without taking drugs", or
"I can't - I have a date with an alien!".
Finally, you might just want to confront the problem head-on. Ask your friend why would they want to do such a thing. Ask them
if your friendship depends on it. Point out the difficult position their peer pressure is putting you in. Point out the risks and consequences
of their actions.
Whatever technique you use, be firm! Decide ahead of time what your values are. Ask God for His help, and look to the Bible for
guidance. If you are unsure as to what to do, you will only be pressured even more. If all else fails, you can always just ignore the offer
and walk away.
Answer each question on separate paper using complete sentences, proper grammar and correct spelling and
punctuation. (Note: a complete sentence makes sense on its own, without having to refer back to the question.)
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
What are "Refusal Skills"?
What are two reasons it is good to have refusal skills?
What are the five ways to refuse listed above?
Pick 3 of the 5 refusal methods and give your own example for each.
Why do you think people get pressured even more when they are unsure of their own values?
GANGS #2 Alternative Homework "SRA" (Skills Reinforcement Assignment) Answer the following questions according
to the information provided. Ask for help if needed.
'"Research has shown that in 2 out of 3 gangs, membership is seen as a lifetime commitment, and that 80% of gang
recruitment occurs through family, friends, and drug-dealing activities. Most youth who join a gang want to join because
they view it as a status symbol, and only 20% of youth join because they are forced to through intimidation or violence.
Those with family members tied to a gang often become members automatically.
Gang members often try to persuade others to join by promising benefits of membership such as prestige, power,
excitement or money. They may stress it is the new recruit's responsibility to protect the neighborhood from outsiders. If
they are ignored, they may be threatened, robbed, or beaten until they give in to the pressure. Once a person joins a gang
there is usually a period of initiation. This is a time when prospective members will go to any extent to prove themselves to
the current gang members. Most times this involves some sort of physical and psychological abuse."
Answer each question on separate paper using complete sentences, proper grammar and correct spelling and punctuation.
(Note: a complete sentence makes sense on its own, without having to refer back to the question.)
1.
2.
3.
4.
What are the three most common ways that gang members are recruited?
What do gang members often promise to new recruits?
What is the first thing gang members usually do to new recruits?
Joining a gang sometimes has some "positive" short-term benefits, and negative long-term consequences. What
might some of the short-term benefits be?
5. What are at least three of the negative long-term consequences?
GANGS #2 Alternative Homework "SRA" (Skills Reinforcement Assignment) Answer the following questions according
to the information provided. Ask for help if needed.
'"Research has shown that in 2 out of 3 gangs, membership is seen as a lifetime commitment, and that 80% of gang
recruitment occurs through family, friends, and drug-dealing activities. Most youth who join a gang want to join because
they view it as a status symbol, and only 20% of youth join because they are forced to through intimidation or violence.
Those with family members tied to a gang often become members automatically.
Gang members often try to persuade others to join by promising benefits of membership such as prestige, power,
excitement or money. They may stress it is the new recruit's responsibility to protect the neighborhood from outsiders. If
they are ignored, they may be threatened, robbed, or beaten until they give in to the pressure. Once a person joins a gang
there is usually a period of initiation. This is a time when prospective members will go to any extent to prove themselves to
the current gang members. Most times this involves some sort of physical and psychological abuse."
Answer each question on separate paper using complete sentences, proper grammar and correct spelling and punctuation.
(Note: a complete sentence makes sense on its own, without having to refer back to the question.)
1.
2.
3.
4.
What are the three most common ways that gang members are recruited?
What do gang members often promise to new recruits?
What is the first thing gang members usually do to new recruits?
Joining a gang sometimes has some "positive" short-term benefits, and negative long-term consequences. What
might some of the short-term benefits be?
5. What are at least three of the negative long-term consequences?
GANGS #2 Alternative Homework "SRA" (Skills Reinforcement Assignment) Answer the following questions according
to the information provided. Ask for help if needed.
'"Research has shown that in 2 out of 3 gangs, membership is seen as a lifetime commitment, and that 80% of gang
recruitment occurs through family, friends, and drug-dealing activities. Most youth who join a gang want to join because
they view it as a status symbol, and only 20% of youth join because they are forced to through intimidation or violence.
Those with family members tied to a gang often become members automatically.
Gang members often try to persuade others to join by promising benefits of membership such as prestige, power,
excitement or money. They may stress it is the new recruit's responsibility to protect the neighborhood from outsiders. If
they are ignored, they may be threatened, robbed, or beaten until they give in to the pressure. Once a person joins a gang
there is usually a period of initiation. This is a time when prospective members will go to any extent to prove themselves to
the current gang members. Most times this involves some sort of physical and psychological abuse."
Answer each question on separate paper using complete sentences, proper grammar and correct spelling and punctuation.
(Note: a complete sentence makes sense on its own, without having to refer back to the question.)
1.
2.
3.
4.
What are the three most common ways that gang members are recruited?
What do gang members often promise to new recruits?
What is the first thing gang members usually do to new recruits?
Joining a gang sometimes has some "positive" short-term benefits, and negative long-term consequences. What
might some of the short-term benefits be?
5. What are at least three of the negative long-term consequences?
Refusal Skills #2
"SRA" (Skills Reinforcement Assignment)
Please read the following:
Why refuse to use drugs? Your health. The law. Your parents. Yes. Yes. Yes. You don’t want to go to jail. You
don’t want to die young. You don’t want to disappoint your folks. These are probably some of the first things you think of
when you think about why not to use drugs. And they are probably the best reasons not to use. Health, freedom, and family
are top priorities in any book. So these may be the best reasons not to use drugs, but they aren’t the only reasons. There are
probably as many reasons not to use drugs as there are good, valuable, fun things in the world. Here are two more positive
reasons to refuse to use:
Number four: -Image You want to keep a cool image, right? Who says a druggie image is cool? Drugs ruin users’
healthy good looks. Drug users are weaker than nonusers are, because even short-term drug use causes lung damage, fatigue,
heart rate and blood pressure changes, and other weakening physical damage. Plenty of drugs give users body odor or cause
acne. This is not a cool image. Change the debate by denying that the so-called druggie chic is an image worth pursuing.
Remind yourself and your friends how much better you’ll look, feel, perform, and smell if you stay off drugs. Refusing to use
drugs enhances your cool image.
Number five: -Green A drug user lays out a lot of green to maintain his or her habit. Drugs are expensive! Here’s
two examples: The average cigarette or chewing tobacco habit $5 a day; that’s $35 a week, and $1825 a year! Just think of
all the great stuff you could buy with an extra $35 a week. College students who drink spend more on alcohol than they
spend on soft drinks, tea, milk, juice coffee and books combined. And those are the drugs that are legal for adults. Imagine
how much of the green stuff someone could waste on illegal drugs. Don’t suppose that if someone offers you drugs free one
time that you’ll always get them for free. Before long, they’re going to want something in return, whether it’s cash, trade, or
sex. A drug dealer is not operating a charity. Okay, it may be perfectly selfish, but if you want your toys, you can’t waste
your money on drugs.
Answer each question on separate paper using complete sentences, proper grammar and correct spelling and punctuation.
(Note: a complete sentence makes sense on its own, without having to refer back to the question.)
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
What are the first 3 reasons listed for deciding to refuse to take drugs?
Which of these 3 reasons are most important to you? Why?
What are three ways that a "druggie image" is not cool?
Why do drug dealers often give new users their drugs for free?
What do you think it means to be "cool" and how do drugs relate to that image?
Refusal Skills #2
"SRA" (Skills Reinforcement Assignment)
Please read the following:
Why refuse to use drugs? Your health. The law. Your parents. Yes. Yes. Yes. You don’t want to go to jail. You
don’t want to die young. You don’t want to disappoint your folks. These are probably some of the first things you think of
when you think about why not to use drugs. And they are probably the best reasons not to use. Health, freedom, and family
are top priorities in any book. So these may be the best reasons not to use drugs, but they aren’t the only reasons. There are
probably as many reasons not to use drugs as there are good, valuable, fun things in the world. Here are two more positive
reasons to refuse to use:
Number four: -Image You want to keep a cool image, right? Who says a druggie image is cool? Drugs ruin users’
healthy good looks. Drug users are weaker than nonusers are, because even short-term drug use causes lung damage, fatigue,
heart rate and blood pressure changes, and other weakening physical damage. Plenty of drugs give users body odor or cause
acne. This is not a cool image. Change the debate by denying that the so-called druggie chic is an image worth pursuing.
Remind yourself and your friends how much better you’ll look, feel, perform, and smell if you stay off drugs. Refusing to use
drugs enhances your cool image.
Number five: -Green A drug user lays out a lot of green to maintain his or her habit. Drugs are expensive! Here’s
two examples: The average cigarette or chewing tobacco habit $5 a day; that’s $35 a week, and $1825 a year! Just think of
all the great stuff you could buy with an extra $35 a week. College students who drink spend more on alcohol than they
spend on soft drinks, tea, milk, juice coffee and books combined. And those are the drugs that are legal for adults. Imagine
how much of the green stuff someone could waste on illegal drugs. Don’t suppose that if someone offers you drugs free one
time that you’ll always get them for free. Before long, they’re going to want something in return, whether it’s cash, trade, or
sex. A drug dealer is not operating a charity. Okay, it may be perfectly selfish, but if you want your toys, you can’t waste
your money on drugs.
Answer each question on separate paper using complete sentences, proper grammar and correct spelling and punctuation.
(Note: a complete sentence makes sense on its own, without having to refer back to the question.)
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
What are the first 3 reasons listed for deciding to refuse to take drugs?
Which of these 3 reasons are most important to you? Why?
What are three ways that a "druggie image" is not cool?
Why do drug dealers often give new users their drugs for free?
What do you think it means to be "cool" and how do drugs relate to that image?
Refusal Skills #3
"SRA" (Skills Reinforcement Assignment)
Please read the following:
Why refuse to use drugs? Keeping your health, freedom, family, image, and money are important. Here are 3 more reasons...
Number six: "Tick-tock, Tick-tock" Life’s short. How much of your limited time would you want to waste being
out of touch with reality, hunting for drugs, scraping up money for drugs, or recovering from drug hangovers? Drugs are not
all about the high. Drug abusers invest an incredible amount of time and energy into serving their drug habits. It’s not as if
they can go to the corner store. It’s not like you can spend the night frying your brain and then spring out of bed to go
conquer the business world in the morning. And someone doesn’t have to be an addict before drug use begins to drain away
his or her life. With all the time wasted in drug use, who knows what even occasional drug users could accomplish?
Number seven: "Thanks for the Memories". What do you want to see in your photo album? A super-close up of the
toilet bowl "the morning after"? Infected needle tracks? The wrong side of jail cell bars? Nah! Drugs steal more than your
money and your time. They steal your life. They steal your memories. Most drugs cloud your memory during and after use.
You don’t want to be 45, saying to yourself, "What ever happened to 2004, ‘05, and ‘06, I wonder?" (That’s assuming you
make it to 45 – not really guaranteed for drug users.)
Number eight: "Future Perfect" Imagine your perfect future life. Are you a basketball star… Artist…Lawyer…
Doctor… or Small business owner? Who’s with you? Some fine-looking, intelligent, athletic, fun-loving mate with a great
sense of humor? What about kids? Pets? Where are you? A house of your own, a condominium? Or did you want to be
alone, unemployed, and living under a bridge? These dreams simply are not compatible with drug use. It just won’t play.
Drug use will limit your success. For example, alcohol is a factor in 40% of all academic problems among college students.
Smoking marijuana causes permanent damage to thinking and reasoning ability! Someone who can’t stay clean isn’t going to
achieve in school, in the studio, or on the playing field. No employer wants a junkie on the payroll, so many of them screen
for previous use before hiring. Drugs take their toll on the whole person: thinking, athletics, energy level, health, reliability,
and honesty. Plus, if you get caught using, drugs can get you the boot.
Answer each question on separate paper using complete sentences, proper grammar and correct spelling and punctuation.
(Note: a complete sentence makes sense on its own, without having to refer back to the question.)
1. What are three reasons drugs cause users to waste a great deal of time?
2.
Refusal Skills #3
"SRA" (Skills Reinforcement Assignment)
Please read the following:
Why refuse to use drugs? Keeping your health, freedom, family, image, and money are important. Here are 3 more reasons...
Number six: "Tick-tock, Tick-tock" Life’s short. How much of your limited time would you want to waste
being out of touch with reality, hunting for drugs, scraping up money for drugs, or recovering from drug hangovers? Drugs
are not all about the high. Drug abusers invest an incredible amount of time and energy into serving their drug habits. It’s
not as if they can go to the corner store. It’s not like you can spend the night frying your brain and then spring out of bed to
go conquer the business world in the morning. And someone doesn’t have to be an addict before drug use begins to drain
away his or her life. With all the time wasted in drug use, who knows what even occasional drug users could accomplish?
Number seven: "Thanks for the Memories". What do you want to see in your photo album? A super-close up of the
toilet bowl "the morning after"? Infected needle tracks? The wrong side of jail cell bars? Nah! Drugs steal more than your
money and your time. They steal your life. They steal your memories. Most drugs cloud your memory during and after use.
You don’t want to be 45, saying to yourself, "What ever happened to 2004, ‘05, and ‘06, I wonder?" (That’s assuming you
make it to 45 – not really guaranteed for drug users.)
Number eight: "Future Perfect" Imagine your perfect future life. Are you a basketball star… Artist…Lawyer…
Doctor… or Small business owner? Who’s with you? Some fine-looking, intelligent, athletic, fun-loving mate with a great
sense of humor? What about kids? Pets? Where are you? A house of your own, a condominium? Or did you want to be
alone, unemployed, and living under a bridge? These dreams simply are not compatible with drug use. It just won’t play.
Drug use will limit your success. For example, alcohol is a factor in 40% of all academic problems among college students.
Smoking marijuana causes permanent damage to thinking and reasoning ability! Someone who can’t stay clean isn’t going to
achieve in school, in the studio, or on the playing field. No employer wants a junkie on the payroll, so many of them screen
for previous use before hiring. Drugs take their toll on the whole person: thinking, athletics, energy level, health, reliability,
and honesty. Plus, if you get caught using, drugs can get you the boot.
Answer each question on separate paper using complete sentences, proper grammar and correct spelling and punctuation.
(Note: a complete sentence makes sense on its own, without having to refer back to the question.)
1.
AFFLUENZA
Alternative Homework "SRA" (Skills Reinforcement Assignment) Answer the following questions according to the
information provided. Ask for help if needed.
Living in the United States, many young people are experiencing the symptoms of "affluenza". This is a new term coined to describe the
symptoms of living in an
Answer each question on separate paper using complete sentences, proper grammar and correct spelling and
punctuation. (Note: a complete sentence makes sense on its own, without having to refer back to the question.)
GAME PLAN: Winning in Life
Based on the No.1 Speech, by Vince Lombardi (former Coach of New York Giants (1954-58); Green Bay Packers (1958-67); Washington Redskins
(1969-70), and he won the first two Super Bowls)
Please read, and then answer the questions that follow.
"Winning is not a sometime thing; it's an all the time thing. You don't win once in a while; you don't do things right once in a while; you do them right all
the time. Winning is a habit. Unfortunately, so is losing. "There is no room for second place. There is only one place in my game, and that's first place. I
have finished second twice in my time at Green Bay, and I don't ever want to finish second again. There is a second place bowl game, but it is a game
for losers played by losers. It is and always has been an American zeal to be first in anything we do, and to win, and to win, and to win. "Every time a
football player goes to ply his trade he's got to play from the ground up — from the soles of his feet right up to his head. Every inch of him has to play.
Some guys play with their heads. That's O.K. You've got to be smart to be number one in any business. But more importantly, you've got to play with
your heart, with every fiber of your body. If you're lucky enough to find a guy with a lot of head and a lot of heart, he's never going to come off the field
second. "Running a football team is no different than running any other kind of organization — an army, a political party or a business. The principles
are the same. The object is to win — to beat the other guy. Maybe that sounds hard or cruel. I don't think it is. "It is a reality of life that men are
competitive and the most competitive games draw the most competitive men. That's why they are there — to compete, to know the rules and objectives
when they get in the game. The object is to win fairly, squarely, by the rules — but to win. "And in truth, I've never known a man worth his salt who in
the long run, deep down in his heart, didn't appreciate the grind, the discipline. There is something in good men that really yearns for discipline and the
harsh reality of head to head combat. “I don't say these things because I believe in the "brute" nature of man or that man must be brutalized to be
combative. I believe in God, and I believe in human decency. But I firmly believe that any man's finest hour, the greatest fulfillment of all that he holds
dear, is that moment when he has worked his heart out in a good cause and lies exhausted on the field of battle — victorious."
Answer each question on a separate paper using complete sentences, proper grammar, and correct spelling and punctuation. (Note: A complete
sentence makes sense on its own, without having to refer back to the question.)
1.
2.
3.
4.
When should you strive to win?
What must you be to be number one in any business?
What two things must you use to play and win?
When we give 100% and play a game we all experience wonderful emotions when we win the game. How does Vince Lombardi explain a
man’s finest hour or greatest fulfillment?
RELATIONSHIPS
(Based on the online resource for the book The Teenager's Guide to the Real World by Marshall Brain)
Please read, and then answer the questions that follow.
If life were easy and understandable, here is how the perfect relationship would go:








You are on your own and feeling OK with yourself, but not really seeing anyone.
You meet someone you would like to get to know better.
The two of you decide to go out together.
You both have a really good time on your first date. You can't believe how much you have in common.
You go out again, and again it is great.
After going out together several times you both realize you have found someone special.
You fall in love and continue dating steadily.
You decide to get engaged.



You plan the wedding together and await the day.
You get married.
You live happily ever after.
As you know or are discovering, life is rarely easy or understandable. So things never seem to work out according to this list. There are lots of reasons
why things don't work out this way very often. The most important one is that it is really hard for you to find someone who matches your habits, goals,
dreams, desires and so on so closely that the two of you would want to spend your entire lives together. Also, as you go out with different people you
learn and realize what you do and don't like. It sometimes takes a fair amount of experience to figure out what you like and dislike. For example, how do
you know that you like certain breakfast cereals and dislike others? Because you tried them all at one time or another. It's the same way with
relationships - you have to try out all different kinds of people to understand what your options are.
You have to expect that it's going to take a little work to find someone who matches you so closely you would be willing to make a lifelong commitment.
You or the other person, at any step in all the steps above, may realize that things aren't working out. At that point you have to break up, and breaking up
feels bad, so relationships are hard. On the other hand, all you have to do is find the right person just once and you are set for life.
Answer each question on a separate paper using complete sentences, proper grammar, and correct spelling and punctuation. (Note: A complete
sentence makes sense on its own, without having to refer back to the question.)
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
What is the first feeling of a perfect relationship?
Things are not always going to be perfect and exactly like the list. What is one reason why this is true?
How do you find out what your options are in dating? Hint: You do this when you are deciding which cereal you like best.
Will it take a little time or a long time to find a perfect relationship? Why?
When things are not working out and you are not with the right person, what should you do to fix it?