Introduction
In this Webquest, students will investigate “The Effects of Smoking on Health and Society” a critical issue with far-reaching impacts on individuals, families, and communities. Smoking is one of the most significant preventable causes of health issues globally, and understanding its effects can empower us to make informed choices.
First, consider the first time you heard about the dangers of smoking—perhaps in a health class, from family, or through an anti-smoking campaign. You may have learned that smoking affects not only the lungs but also the heart, immune system, and even mental health. Despite this, smoking continues to be a widespread habit, especially among young people.
Another relatable example is when we see 'No Smoking' signs in public places, meant to protect non-smokers from secondhand smoke. This shows that smoking isn’t just a personal choice but something that impacts the community, public health, and even the environment through litter and pollution.

Reflecting on these examples, it’s clear that smoking has broad and serious consequences, not only for the smoker but also for society at large. Through this Webquest, you’ll explore the impact of smoking on physical health, mental well-being, and public spaces.
This Webquest will guide you through resources on the health risks of smoking, the societal impacts, and the importance of prevention, providing you with the knowledge to understand and raise awareness about this critical issue.
Task
Your task is to write a well-structured essay analyzing the negative effects of smoking. Use the resources provided in this WebQuest to explore the harmful chemicals in cigarettes, health risks, the impact on non-smokers, and the societal costs of smoking. (No word count just make it effective)
Your essay should include:
- Introduction – Explain the purpose of your essay and give a brief overview of smoking’s impact.
- Body Paragraph 1 – Discuss the harmful chemicals in cigarettes and their effects on the body.
- Body Paragraph 2 – Explain the dangers of secondhand smoke and how it affects non-smokers.
- Conclusion – Summarize the main points and emphasize the importance of preventing smoking among young people.
Process
This section contain a step by step guide to gather the required information about Smoking:
Step 1:
This is a link that covers an overview on smoking. (Note this link can be used in the other steps if needed)
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/17488-smoking
Write briefly what you understood including the main points on the impacts of smoking.
Step 2:
This video talks about the harmful chemicals in cigarette.
-Choose 3 of those chemicals and explain how each of them can be harmful to the body of smokers.
Step 3:
This video is about second hand smoking. Watch it and answer the below questions.
-What is second hand smoking?
-How does it effect non smokers?
Step 4:
This video is about quitting smoking. Watch it and answer the below questions.
-Briefly how can we prevent and quit smoking among young people?
Step 5:

After answering all the questions use the above image to start writing an effective essay.
Evaluation
Your essay will be graded based on the following:
Criteria: |
Score: |
| Title | 2 |
| Structure | 5 |
|
Content/Information |
4 |
| Language/Grammar | 5 |
| Style | 4 |
| Total | 20 |
Conclusion
By now, you understand how harmful smoking is to both individuals and society. This habit not only puts smokers at risk but also impacts the health of others through secondhand smoke. The financial burden caused by smoking-related diseases is enormous, and quitting smoking is a powerful step toward improving public health.
Credits
References
Cleveland clinic. (2020, October 28). Smoking & Disease | Cleveland Clinic. Cleveland Clinic; Cleveland clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/17488-smoking
Mayo clinic . (2023). Strategies to quit smoking . Youtu.be. https://youtu.be/76qDreHCS4U?si=EjCgBUWUV470MqOg
Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center. (2021, January 14). What is Secondhand Smoke? YouTube. https://youtu.be/AD_JZn_JlxA?si=Jq_DDLGPyezAdws6
U.S FDA. (2022, October 5). Chemicals in Every Cigarette Product. YouTube. https://youtu.be/hdJKZZ4njyc?si=P3PQgUqajAbK2Luk
(n.d.-a). https://images.app.goo.gl/7Fpvb9yoZkv5Gs3q9
(n.d.-b). https://images.app.goo.gl/iBBnm4iNJ3dqYi1R9
(n.d.-c). https://images.app.goo.gl/qNXRFbxntRJEk3Ti8