Recreational Drugs

woman standing while blowing smoke
Type: Vocabulary
Originally published on November 9, 2020 and last updated on July 19, 2023

The topic of recreational drugs holds relevance for English learners as it expands their vocabulary and cultivates their ability to discuss social and health-related issues. Exploring this topic enables learners to comprehend drug-related terminology, understand the impact of recreational drug use and engage in critical conversations surrounding addiction, legality and societal implications.

By delving into this topic, learners develop their language skills, enhance their understanding of complex societal challenges and gain the ability to express opinions and make informed decisions regarding recreational drugs.

Instructions:
Go through the vocabulary below with your students and ask them to try and use this vocabaulry where possible when discussing the different conversation questions.

Recreational Drugs Review

Recreational drugs, a topic of immense societal relevance, encompass substances used for non-medical purposes, primarily to induce pleasurable effects. This introduction explores the multifaceted realm of recreational drugs, shedding light on their various forms, effects and social implications. From substances such as marijuana and ecstasy to cocaine and hallucinogens, the use of recreational drugs raises complex ethical, legal and health-related questions.

Understanding the landscape of recreational drugs enables individuals to make informed choices, promote responsible behaviour and engage in critical discussions surrounding substance use and its impact on individuals and communities.

Useful Vocabulary

Try and use the following vocabulary when answering the question. Click to look up the definition in the dictionary

  • recreational (adjective)
  • illegal (adjective)
  • legal (adjective)
  • society (noun)
  • detrimental (adjective)
  • apparent (adjective)
  • harm (noun)
  • call for (phrasal verb)
  • responsibility (noun)

Conversation Questions

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  • What are some commonly used recreational drugs in your country or culture?
  • Do you think recreational drug use should be legalised or decriminalised?
  • Are there any recreational drugs in your country that are legal?
  • What are the potential risks and consequences of recreational drug use?
  • What would the possible positive effects be of making all drugs legal?
  • Should governments allocate more resources to education and prevention programs to reduce recreational drug use?
  • How can society promote responsible drug use and minimise harm associated with recreational drugs?
  • What are some alternative recreational activities that can provide similar enjoyment without the use of drugs?
  • How can individuals support friends or family members struggling with recreational drug addiction?
  • Should recreational drug use be considered a personal choice or a public health concern?
  • Should governments allocate more resources to education and prevention programs to reduce recreational drug use?
  • Should individuals with a history of recreational drug use face limitations or discrimination in employment or other areas of their lives?
  • Is the criminalisation of recreational drug use an effective deterrent or does it contribute to other social problems?
  • Should society focus more on harm reduction strategies rather than strict prohibition when it comes to recreational drugs?
Gregory
This conversation topic was prepared by Gregory

Gregory is a qualified TEFL teacher who has been teaching English as a Foreign Language (ESL) for over a decade. He has taught in-person classes in Spain and to English learners around the world online.