Health: Grades 6 to 9

Adolescents and Marijuana (Video). Kinetic Inc. (KIN), 2000. 18 min. Order no. 1273/0795 ($359.00).

This program profiles teens as they recall their past experiences with pot. They became lethargic and were no longer motivated to study or to participate in extracurricular activities. Marijuana incurred costs for them on physical, emotional and spiritual levels. Now, in recovery, these adolescents declare that they have a life whereas before, pot was their life!
Suggested Use: Grade 7 - Alcohol and Other Drugs


Alone at Ninety Foot (Print-Fiction). Holubitsky, Katherine. Orca Book Publishers Ltd. (ORC), 1999. 169 p. ISBN 1-55143-204-8 ($8.95 pbk.).

(CAN) This moving story of recovery deals with the issue of suicide. Fourteen-year-old Pamela Collins, the narrator, spends a great deal of time alone in a local wilderness spot called Ninety Foot Pool. Her mother jumped to her death from a suspension bridge downstream from Ninety Foot, and Pam is struggling desperately to deal with her mother's suicide. She feels her loss has made her into a freak in the eyes of her peers, whose reactions range from awkward sensitivity to boorishness. The characters ring true in this novel that is sometimes funny, and sometimes tragic. Young adults who are trying to deal with a death in the family may find reassurance by reading Alone at Ninety Foot.
Suggested Use: Grade 9 - Tragic Death and Suicide
Other Use: English Langauge Arts: Grades 6 to 9


Anger Management (Print-Non-Fiction). Peacock, Judith. (Perspectives on Mental Health Series). Capstone Press, Inc. (KRS), 2000. 64 p. ISBN 0-7368-0433-1 ($30.65 hdc.).

This title focuses on anger in teenagers and offers suggestions for managing their own anger and their response to the anger of others. The text is enhanced with small colour photographs. Included are a table of contents, a glossary, lists of resources and an index.
Suggested Use: Grade 7 - Conflict Resolution


Assertiveness: "How Can I Say What I Mean?" (Print-Non-Fiction). Havelin, Kate. (Perspectives on Relationships Series). Capstone Press, Inc. (KRS), 2000. 64 p. ISBN 0-7368-0290-8 ($30.65 hdc.).

This title defines assertiveness, addresses its value and offers strategies for improving one's assertiveness skills. The text is augmented with small colour photographs. Included are a table of contents, a glossary, lists of resources and an index.
Suggested Use: Grade 7 - Assertiveness Skills


Best Buds: A Girl's Guide to Friendship. 1st ed. (Print-Non-Fiction). Shaw, Victoria. (Girls' Guides Series). Rosen Publishing Group (SBC), 2000. 48 p. ISBN 0-8239-2987-6 ($30.65 hdc.).

With easy-to-read text and appealing, colourful illustrations, this book offers advice to adolescent girls regarding making and keeping friends, peer pressure, acceptance and conformity. Included are a table of contents, a friendship quiz, a glossary, lists of resources and an index.
Suggested Use: Grade 6 - Self-concept; Grade 7 - Conflict Resolution; Peer Pressure


Body Image and Media (Video). (Body Image: Let's Get Real Series). TV Ontario (MGR), 1999. 10 min. Dup. order no. V541.

(CAN) The powerful forces of media images glorify a narrow definition of beauty. In this program from the Body Image: Let's Get Real Series, guests speak candidly about the pressures to conform to an impossible ideal. Young people deconstruct this ideal and provide the audience with alternative views and images from those presented in mainstream media.
Suggested Use: Grade 6 - Body Image and Nutrition; Grade 8 - Eating Disorders


Children's Medical Emergency Handbook: Plus Over 150 Prevention Tips and a Special 22-Page Wellness Section (Print-Non-Fiction). The Hospitals of Regina Foundation. Centax Distribution (CXD), 1997. 224 p. ISBN 1-895292-84-4 ($10.00 spiral-bound).

(SK) Although designed primarily for use by parents/caregivers, this easy-to-use book offers valuable illustrated step-by-step procedures that would be useful for students who are studying first aid. It is a tool to help during emergencies while medical care is being sought. It also provides 150 prevention tips and a wellness section that offers useful health-related information for anyone who is responsible for the care of young children. Included are a table of contents and an index.

Please note that although the retail price of this resource is $18.99, it is being offered to schools for $10.00 (the cost of shipping is included).
Suggested Use: Grade 7 - First Aid


Chillin': A Guy's Guide to Friendship. 1st ed. (Print-Non-Fiction). Sommers, Michael. (Guys' Guides Series). Rosen Publishing Group (SBC), 2000. 48 p. ISBN 0-8239-3160-9 ($30.65 hdc.).

With easy-to-read text and engaging colourful illustrations, this book offers advice to adolescent boys regarding making and keeping new friends, peer pressure, acceptance and conformity. Included are a table of contents, a friendship quiz, a glossary, lists of resources and an index.
Suggested Use: Grade 6 - Self-concept; Grade 7 - Conflict Resolution; Peer Pressure


Close Ups: Best Stories for Teens (Print-Anthology). Carver, Peter, ed. Red Deer Press (RAI), 2000. 223 p. ISBN 0-88995-200-0 ($12.95 pbk.).

(CAN) Close Ups is an anthology of short stories by Canadian authors noted for their writing for young adults. Each of the 17 stories deals with a moment or event of life-changing importance-birth, death, divorce, abuse and prejudice. Although the stories deal with serious themes, they display humour and diversity and the characters grow and learn as a result of their experiences. This anthology is an excellent example of the short story genre, and it serves as engaging fiction that deals with relevant issues and experiences. This anthology could be used in modified classes.

Please note that several of the stories deal with mature themes and issues. Care should be taken to assure that the selections chosen meet the objectives of the themes and issues at each particular grade level.
Suggested Use: Grade 9 - Safety at School, Home, and in the Community; Tragic Death and Suicide
Other Use: English Language Arts: Grades 6 to 9; English Language Arts 10; English Language Arts 20


Dating: "What Is a Healthy Relationship?" (Print-Non-Fiction). Havelin, Kate. (Perspectives on Relationships Series). Capstone Press, Inc. (KRS), 2000. 64 p. ISBN 0-7368-0292-4 ($30.65 hdc.).

This title focuses on dating relationships between adolescents. It includes suggestions for successful dating and information that may assist teens in making decisions about sex. The easy-to-read text is enhanced with small colour photographs. Included are a table of contents, a glossary, lists of resources and an index.

Because of the sensitive content, teachers should consult their school division's materials selection policy before using this book in the classroom.

Please note that teachers must obtain school division board approval before teaching the unit on abstinence, sexually transmitted diseases, pregnancy and contraception. Suggested Use: Grade 9 - Abstinence, STDs, Pregnancy, and Contraception; Dating


Double or Nothing (Print-Fiction). Foon, Dennis. Annick Press (FIR), 2000. 168 p. ISBN 1-55037-626-8 ($7.95 hdc.).

(CAN) Double or Nothing is a disturbing book about a most disturbing issue. Gambling and gambling addiction are worldwide phenomena. This novel deals with a more hidden issue, but one that is rapidly on the rise-that of teenage gambling. Kip Breaker is an above-average high school student who, though fatherless, has been well provided for by his dedicated mother and loyal uncle. Unfortunately, his penchant for gambling takes a devastating turn when his new girlfriend's father turns out to be a high-stakes con artist with his eye on Kip's college savings. This faced-paced journey into the depressing world of a teenage gambler points out in no uncertain terms that gambling can be as serious an addiction as drugs or alcohol.
Suggested Use: Grade 7; Grade 8; Grade 9; Gambling
Other Use: English Language Arts: Grades 6 to 9; English Language Arts 10


Drawing Lessons. 1st ed. (Print-Fiction). Mack, Tracy. Scholastic Inc. (SCH), 2000. 168 p. ISBN 0-439-11202-8 ($22.99 hdc.).

Through years of drawing lessons, Aurora's artist father has taught her about light and colour, perspective and form. Their relationship has been strengthened by their mutual love of drawing. When he moves out on her and her mother, Aurora feels betrayed and rejected, and can no longer draw without his hand to guide her. Even when her father tries to explain why he left, Aurora's head feels, "muddy, like a bucket of dirty paintbrush water." This is a realistically portrayed novel that deals with a painful and common situation. Aurora's gradual acceptance of the ever-changing structure of her family will give readers a sense of hopefulness as their own families change and grow.
Suggested Use: Grade 8 - Divorce and Separation; Family Structures, Roles, and Responsibilities
Other Use: English Language Arts: Middle Level


Eating Disorders (Video). (Body Image: Let's Get Real Series). TV Ontario (MGR), 1999. 10 min. Dup. order no. V542.

(CAN) This program from the Body Image: Let's Get Real Series examines the many causes and consequences of eating disorders. Intimate testimonials with young survivors, both male and female, educate viewers about the dangers of anorexia and bulimia and show that it is possible to win the battle.
Suggested Use: Grade 8 - Eating Disorders


Everything You Need to Know About Going to the Gynecologist. 1st ed. (Print-Non-Fiction). Diamond, Shifra N. (The Need to Know Library Series). Rosen Publishing Group (SBC), 1999. 64 p. ISBN 0-8239-2839-X ($30.65 hdc.).

Written for adolescent girls, this book provides information on choosing a gynecologist, getting to know your body, what to expect from a gynecological exam, and reproductive health including methods of birth control. The text is enhanced with photographs, mostly in black-and-white. The book provides a table of contents, a glossary, lists of resources and an index.

Because of the sensitive content, teachers should consult their school division's materials selection policy before using this book in the classroom.

Please note that teachers must obtain school division board approval before teaching the unit on abstinence, sexually transmitted diseases, pregnancy and contraception.
Suggested Use: Grade 9 - Abstinence, STDs, Pregnancy, and Contraception


Everything You Need to Know About Looking and Feeling Your Best: A Guide for Girls. 1st ed. (Print-Non-Fiction). Sommers, Annie Leah. (The Need to Know Library Series). Rosen Publishing Group (SBC), 2000. 64 p. ISBN 0-8239-3079-3 ($30.65 hdc.).

This resource addresses the importance of good grooming, hygiene, nutrition, fitness and attitude in helping adolescent girls to look and feel their best. The text is enhanced with photographs, mostly in black-and-white. The book provides a table of contents, a glossary, lists of resources and an index.
Suggested Use: Grade 6 - Changes of Puberty; Self-concept; Grade 7 - Healthy Eating


First on the Scene: The Complete Guide to First Aid and CPR. 3rd ed. (Print-Non-Fiction). St. John Ambulance (SJA), 2001. 393 p. ISBN 1-894070-26-7 ($16.25 pbk.).

(CAN) This updated St. John Ambulance comprehensive first aid and CPR reference manual presents detailed information on all types of injuries and illnesses. The clear illustrations and step-by-step instructions were designed to enable people to provide safe and correct medical assistance when injuries happen. Reading this book, of course, is not a substitute for taking a first aid course. This resource includes a table of contents, a glossary and an index.
Suggested Use: Grade 6; Grade 7; Grade 9; First Aid; Safety & Accident Prevention; Safety at School, Home, and in the Community
Other Use: Health Education: Elementary Level; Physical Education: Elementary Level


Flipping the World: Drugs Through a Blue Lens (Video). National Film Board of Canada (NFB), 2000. 30 min. Order no. C9199 302 ($39.95).

(CAN) In this program, the Odd Squad, a detachment of the Vancouver Police, films drug addicts on the east side of the city. The Odd Squad then works with seven high school students who view the footage and meet some of the addicts who are either still using drugs or are in a recovery program. Throughout this process, the students experience a shift in attitude toward drugs and the people who use them.

A brief teacher's guide is included on the video jacket.

This program is closed-captioned for viewers with hearing disabilities.
Suggested Use: Grade 7 - Alcohol and Other Drugs


Girl Power in the Family: A Book About Girls, Their Rights, and Their Voice (Print-Non-Fiction). Lound, Karen. Lerner Publications (FHW), 2000. 80 p. ISBN 0-8225-2692-1 ($41.95 hdc.).

Interspersed with the personal stories of several young girls, this title focuses on the relationships between girls and their families as well as the gender issues that affect these relationships. It also discusses the ways that girls can develop their own individual identities. Included are a table of contents, a list of resources for girls, a list of resources for parents/teachers and an index.
Suggested Use: Grade 7 - Factors That Affect Decision-Making in Relationships - Grade 8 - Family Structures, Roles, and Responsibilities


Healthy Eating (Print-Non-Fiction). Gregson, Susan R. (Perspectives on Physical Health Series). Capstone Press, Inc. (KRS), 2000. 64 p. ISBN 0-7368-0420-X ($30.65 hdc.).

This title focuses on how various foods are used in human bodies and how to make nutritious eating an important part of one's lifestyle. Although American, it does refer to Canada's Food Guide to Healthy Eating as well as to the Food Guide Pyramid. The text is enhanced with small colour photographs. Included are a table of contents, a glossary, lists of resources and an index.
Suggested Use: Grade 7 - Healthy Eating


Healthy Sexuality: What Is It? (Print-Non-Fiction). Endersbe, Julie K. (Perspectives on Healthy Sexuality Series). Capstone Press, Inc. (KRS), 2000. 64 p. ISBN 0-7368-0273-8 ($30.65 hdc.).

This book explains healthy sexuality in clear and definite terms that teens will be able to understand. Relationships, good communication, responsibility and the importance of proper decision making are also addressed. Colour photographs and sidebars of additional information add to the appeal of this easy-to-read resource. An index and a glossary are included.

It is advisable to carefully screen this resource to ensure that it meets the criteria of local selection policies.
Please note that teachers must obtain school division board approval before teaching the unit on abstinence, sexually transmitted diseases, pregnancy and contraception.
Suggested Use: Grade 9 - Abstinence, STDs, Pregnancy, and Contraception


Human Sexuality Series (CD-ROM). Goodheart-Willcox Publisher (GDS), 1999. Order numbers follow. ($216.75 set).

Recommended titles in this series include the following:

Human Sexuality 1: A Healthy Me	ISBN 1-56637-457-X
Human Sexuality 2: Respect & Responsibility	ISBN 1-56637-458-8.

These two CDs are of high interest and deal with sensitive material very well. The programs are simply done, but they are also very effective. Accurate information is presented on the reproductive systems, pregnancy, STDs and the roles of respect and responsibility in dating relationships. Interactive quiz games are included along with "Tough Choices," in which students explore the risks and rewards of dating.

Due to the sensitive nature of these CDs, it is recommended that teachers preview the programs before they are used in the classroom.

Please note that teachers must obtain school division board approval before teaching the unit on abstinence, sexually transmitted diseases, pregnancy and contraception.
Suggested Use: Grade 9 - Abstinence, STDs, Pregnancy, and Contraception


In the Clear (Print-Fiction). Carter, Anne Laurel. Orca Book Publishers Ltd. (ORC), 2001. 133 p. ISBN 1-55143-192-0 ($8.95 pbk.).

(CAN) This novel is set in 1959 during the polio epidemic. Pauline has survived the horrors of polio, after months of being confined in an iron lung followed by extended, excruciating physical therapy. The book uses flashbacks to explain the history of Pauline's disease and then brings the reader back to the present where she is trying to deal with the fact that her shrunken leg will not allow her to play hockey-her only dream. This would be an excellent choice for literature circles.
Suggested Use: Grade 9 - Chronic Illness
Other Use: English Language Arts: Grades 6 to 9


In Your Face: Why Courtesy & Respect? (Video). Learning Seed Company (KIN), 1998. 22 min. Order no. 1331/1120 ($119.00).

This American program compares examples of respectful and disrespectful behaviours. Mutual respect is presented in the example of pedestrians and skateboarders sharing a sidewalk.
Suggested Use: Grade 8 - Respect in Relationships


It's So Amazing!: A Book About Eggs, Sperm, Birth, Babies, and Families. 1st ed. (Print-Non-Fiction). Harris, Robie H. and Emberley, Michael, illus. Candlewick Press (GDS), 1999. 81 p. ISBN 0-7636-0051-2 ($28.99 hdc.).

This visually appealing resource uses amusing bird and bee cartoons to relay straightforward explanations of topics regarding puberty, love and reproduction. It also addresses sensitive issues such as homosexuality and sexually transmitted diseases. Included are a table of contents and an index.

It is advisable for teachers to consult their school board's selection policy before using this book in the classroom.

Please note that teachers must obtain school division board approval before teaching the unit on abstinence, sexually transmitted diseases, pregnancy and contraception.
Suggested Use: Grade 9 - Abstinence, STDs, Pregnancy, and Contraception


Making a Killing: Philip Morris, Kraft and Global Tobacco Addiction (Video). INFACT (IFT), 2000. 29 min. No order number is required. ($75.00 U.S.).

This American program reveals the once-secret corporate documents that focus on how Philip Morris conspired to lure children into tobacco use. It informs viewers how Morris purchased Kraft Foods and its positive image in order to influence the media and government decision makers. It closes with suggestions on how viewers can counter corporate power.
Suggested Use: Grade 9 - Tobacco Industry


Mercy's Birds (Print-Fiction). Holeman, Linda. Tundra Books Inc. (RAN), 1998.
198 p. ISBN 0-88776-463-0 ($8.99 pbk.).

This book addresses the issues of poverty, abuse and depression with compassion and a perceptive eye. Mercy tries to hide her loneliness and hurt by dressing head to toe in black and keeping to herself. At home she takes care of her depressed, withdrawn mother and her alcoholic aunt. She works at a flower shop to help cover the household expenses, and this is the only place where she feels safe. Mercy's fears and responsibilities become too much to handle alone, and she has to risk confiding in others. Her employer becomes an unexpected ally, and a girl at school proves a trustworthy friend. The poignant novel effectively portrays a young girl's despair and her process of healing.
Suggested Use: Grade 9 - Chronic Illness
Other Use: English Language Arts: Grades 6 to 9


No Way!!!... to Treat Others (Video). Nimco, Inc. (KIN), 1999. 27 min. Order no. 1031/1405 ($159.95).

This program features interviews with victims of bullying. It suggests strategies such as the following for dealing with bullies:

• Don't name call.
  
• Don't become violent.
  
• Don't tolerate the abuse.
  
• Don't deal with the problem alone. Get help!