aidemia--modules-lessonstartideas_type	Give a creative idea how to begin a lesson
Which subject	Health
What age group	Year or Grade 11
What topic	Smoking, viruses and flu
Quantity	1
Any other preferences

Lesson Introduction: Understanding the Connection Between Smoking, Viruses, and the Flu

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Hook: A Thought-Provoking Scenario

Setting the Scene:

Imagine you're in a bustling café with a friend who is lighting up a cigarette. Outside, you can hear the chatter of people, the clinking of cups, and the rustling of newspapers. Suddenly, a loud cough erupts from a table nearby. It catches your attention. As you take a sip of your mint tea, your friend casually mentions, "I probably won't get sick. I've been smoking for years." You raise an eyebrow and wonder—does smoking really protect you from viruses like the flu, or could it be putting you at greater risk?

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Engagement Activity: Quick Poll

Before diving deeper into the complexities of smoking, viruses, and the flu, let's gauge the room with a quick poll:

• When you think about smoking, what comes to mind?
  1. Health risks
  2. Smoking reduces stress
  3. It's a personal choice
  4. Other (please specify)

Instructions:

1. Take a moment to think about your own views on smoking.
2. After considering your thoughts, raise your hand for the option you feel best represents your opinion.
3. We’ll note the results on the board and briefly discuss the reasons behind everyone's choice.

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Transition to Learning Objectives

Discussion Starter:

Through our poll, it’s clear that opinions on smoking vary widely. Today, we’ll explore the intricate relationship between smoking, the body's response to viruses, and how smoking can impact your susceptibility to illnesses like the flu.

Learning Objectives:

By the end of this lesson, you will be able to:

• Understand the health risks associated with smoking.
• Explain how smoking affects the immune system.
• Recognise the symptoms of viruses and understand the flu's impact on health.
• Analyse the real-world implications of smoking related to viral infections.

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Conclusion: Setting the Stage for Engagement

With these questions and discussions in mind, let’s delve into the science behind smoking, explore how it interacts with viruses, and consider the broader implications for our health and society. Get ready to engage in some thought-provoking discussions and enlightening activities!

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Let's begin!