Parent Guide > The New Painkiller Epidemic

This week in class, we’re reading "The New Painkiller Epidemic" by Shelby Ostergaard.

In the informational text "The New Painkiller Epidemic," Shelby Ostergaard discusses the spike in painkiller use, as well as the causes for this epidemic.

As we read, we will be discussing the themes of Power & Greed and Technology, Progress & Industry as they relate to the text. We are trying to answer these big questions :

"What are the costs and benefits of technology?" and "How does power corrupt?"

Ways to support your child:

• Ask your child about this informational text at home:
  • What was "The New Painkiller Epidemic" about?
  • What did you learn about Power & Greed?
  • What did you learn about Technology, Progress & Industry?
• Watch the following clips with your child at home:
  • 'What’s behind the heroin epidemic'
  • 'The Opioid Crisis and the Way Forward'