RESEARCH WORKS IN BIOLOGY AS A TOOL FOR PREVENTION OF HARMFUL HABITS

School curriculum introduces pupils to some aspects of the pattern of life, science and culture, which, in the society's opinion, are a very important part of the educational process. One of the aims of school is to prepare pupils for life. Knowledge is essential, but skills and attitudes are not less important in the educational process and we can develop them by preventive research works. Preventative research works at Vilnius Jesuit Gymnasium have been included into the course of biology. The aim of the research was to demonstrate the effect of some chemicals on a living organism practically. The article presents the methodical instructions for the following research works: • The effect of the cigarette smoke on the germination and development of plants; • The effect of the cigarette smoke on the vegetation of plants; • The effect of inhalants on the germination, development and vegetation of plants; • The effect of alcohol on the germination and development of plants; • The effect of alcohol on the vegetation of plants. The research work is a very effective part of the prevention programme because students analyse final results with great interest, get involved into discussions, try to find causes, search for information and ask questions. This type of research work is very convenient because it is possible to carry it out in the classroom, it is not necessary to have sophisticated laboratory equipment and the results are seen in short time. The research works are integrated into the curriculum and help to achieve the goals set in general programmes and educational standards.