How do you know that there is a problem?
Observation techniques using visual and audio modalities. Students will conduct a systematic observation of the problem and specifically identify indicators and observation strategies they use to identify the problem.
Indicators in the Community:
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a. behavior: aimless loitering on street corners is a major indicator of individuals who use and sell drugs
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b. physical appearance: excessively thin and gaunt-looking were viewed as adverse dietary and health effects of substance intake
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c. dress: ostentation dressing, especially gold chains were identified as drug attire
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d. residential patterns: public housing was considered a primary center for trafficking
Indicators at Roberto Clemente School
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a. attendance: excessive absenteeism and truancy because of negative effects of drugs, causing students to physically feel bad and mentally disoriented, rendering the individual unmotivated to attend school on a regular basis
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b. behavior: yelling, swearing at other students and authority figures
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c. mind set: radical mood swings and negatively predisposed to learning
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d. appearance: dazed eyes that are often red, thin and tired looking
What are other means of identifying the problem?
Indicators in the Community:
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a. listening: street talk and individual accounts from neighbors give insight into the local area that the media is not aware of
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b. warning: parents and relatives, as well as other members of the community who are cognizant of the problem share their concerns to the children clearly reveal the problem
