Learning Opportunities

The Fourth R refers to ‘Relationships’ and can be taught in the same way as reading, writing and arithmetic. The core Fourth R program is founded on extensive research and applies best practice approaches to building skills and reducing harm among adolescents. It is a comprehensive school-based program aimed at reducing three interconnected risk behaviours in adolescence: violence (bullying, peer and dating violence), substance abuse, and unsafe sex. The program applies a youth-focused, harm-reduction strategy that encompasses knowledge, positive relationship skills, and decision-making. The core program is a 21-lesson curriculum that meets provincial education guidelines for grade 7, 8 and 9 Health and Physical Education and is taught by classroom teachers. The themes and topics of the units relate to healthy relationships and decision-making relevant to adolescents. Important topics such as bullying, personal relationships, peer and dating violence, substance use, and high-risk behaviors are included as part of the content of all programs.  The program involves analyzing issues, solving problems, and applying ideas while developing the skills of effective communication such as speaking, listening, and presenting.  It is a universal approach that includes all adolescents in education about safety and risk. Teachers receive a resource binder of filled with lesson plans and activities.

 Lunch included, please bring your morning refreshments.