Safety and Sensitivity Issues

Safety issues:

Activities 1 and 2: NONE

Activity 3: This experiment involves the use of small volumes of ethanol, which is a combustible liquid. Appropriate safety measures should be followed.

Sensitivity issues:

1. Alcohol use, pregnancy and birth defects are sensitive topics.

2. Alcohol use in our society is widespread.

3. Alcoholism is a disease that causes denial and shame.

4. Although it is illegal for use by those under 18 in many states, some of your students may drink alcohol.

5. It is possible that students in your class may know someone who has alcohol-related problems.

6. In the classroom it is important to avoid blame and shame and to focus, instead, on individual responsibility and not on judging others.

7. It is important to instill in students the need to respect one another’s points of view, individual differences, and to treat one another with dignity, respect and kindness.