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Read the extract below and answer the questions that follow - NSC Religion Studies - Question 1 - 2019 - Paper 2
Question 1
Read the extract below and answer the questions that follow. SUBSTANCE ABUSE AT GAUTENG SCHOOLS IS FRIGHTENING 'The substance abuse in these schools is frightening... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Read the extract below and answer the questions that follow - NSC Religion Studies - Question 1 - 2019 - Paper 2
Step 1
Explain the causes of substance abuse at schools.
Answer
Substance abuse at schools can be attributed to several factors:
- Peer Pressure: Children may succumb to peer influence, either positively or negatively.
- Poverty: Financial shortcomings often lead children to engage with drug dealers for money, making them vulnerable to substance abuse.
- Poor Management Systems: Schools lacking effective safety policies and supervision can experience serious drug problems.
- Lack of Security: Many schools do not have proper security measures, allowing easy access for drug peddlers.
- Entertainment Choices: Young individuals may get involved in drugs as a form of entertainment, leading to substance abuse.
- Parental Guidance: A lack of proper parenting and supervision often contributes to negative behavior in children including substance abuse.
Step 2
What are the negative consequences of substance abuse in South African schools?
Answer
The negative consequences of substance abuse in South African schools are profound and far-reaching:
- Academic Impact: Substance abuse often leads to a decline in academic performance, with learners frequently dropping out of school.
- Behavioral Issues: Substance abuse can manifest in theft, vandalism, and other delinquent behaviors in students, disrupting the school environment.
- Financial Burden: Substance abuse places financial strains on both the school and families, diverting resources to address the issue instead of educational needs.
- Health Risks: Students become prone to various health problems associated with drug and alcohol use, adversely affecting their well-being.
Step 3
Discuss practical strategies that religious communities can apply to overcome the problem of substance abuse in society.
Answer
Religious communities can undertake several initiatives to combat substance abuse effectively:
- Youth Empowerment: Encourage youth participation in community activities, including sports, to promote a healthy lifestyle.
- Substance Abuse Awareness Programs: Providing education about the dangers of substance abuse through workshops and discussions can help prevent it.
- Community Engagement: Engaging with local authorities and law enforcement to conduct awareness campaigns in schools can deter substance abuse.
- Support Systems: Establishing support groups for individuals struggling with substance abuse to provide guidance and rehabilitation opportunities.
- Collaboration: Working together with local health departments to create rehabilitation programs for affected individuals and implement community outreach initiatives.
Step 4
With reference to ANY ONE religion, discuss its teachings against substance abuse.
Answer
Focusing on Christianity:
Christian teachings emphasize the importance of taking care of one's body and mind, as it is considered a temple in 1 Corinthians 6:19-20. The Bible warns against intoxication and excessive consumption of alcohol, as seen in Ephesians 5:18, where it urges believers not to get drunk but to be filled with the Spirit. Furthermore, Christians are encouraged to support those affected by substance abuse through love and community service, guiding them towards rehabilitation and healing. This approach underscores the religious community's role in combating substance abuse by promoting a healthy, faith-based lifestyle.