Story: New Designer Steroid Detected Among Top Athletes, 11/05/03
http://www.pbs.org/newshour/extra/features/july-dec03/steroid_11-05.html

Reading Comprehension Questions:

1. What top athletes have been called as witnesses in the Grand Jury inquiry into the new steroid scandal?

2. Why are steroids banned by some sports organizations?

3. How did authorities find out about the new steroid, THG?

4. Which athletes have been in trouble for taking steroids in the past?

5. What steps are professional sports organizations taking following the discovery of the steroid THG?

Discussion Activity (more research might be needed):

1. Do students in this school or this area use steroids?

2. Do you think this story will make student athletes more or less likely to try to obtain steroids?

3. Research the restrictions regarding the use of steroids at your high school? What are they? Are they similar to professional sports? If so in what ways?

4. What punishment should athletes face for taking steroids? Is a lifetime ban from competing in their sport too severe, or does the punishment fit the crime?

5. What are some of the legal uses for steroids? For instance what medical conditions sometimes require the use of steroids?

Write a 300-500 word essay on any of these topics providing clear examples. Send your completed editorial to NewsHour Extra [extra@newshour.org]. Exceptional essays might be published on our Web site.