With the Internet, students and teachers have a world of knowledge and information at their fingertips. Responsible use of these digital resources is important to remember. Students are empowered to evaluate sites and make responsible and ethical decisions. They must be able to recognize credible and valid resources for learning.
Chat rooms, gaming, and social media:
The Internet is awesome, but not everyone on it is. When you’re in chat rooms or on social media, remember: once something is posted, it can be seen, saved, and shared—even if you delete it. Never share personal details like your full name, address, school, phone number, or passwords. If someone you meet online asks for private information, photos, or to meet in person, don’t respond—tell a trusted adult right away. Be respectful and kind in your posts, and think before you click any links or open attachments from people you don’t know. If something online makes you uncomfortable, block the person and report it. Protecting yourself online keeps you and your friends safe.
Remember to Pause and Think Online!
Grade Level Activities:
Grades K-5
Video - Meet the Digital Citizens
Discussion:
What should you do if you see or read something that seems unbelievable? How do you know what you see or hear is true?
What kinds of things should you never tell someone online?
Discussion:
Why do you think it’s risky to share personal details online?
What are some warning signs that someone in a chat room might not be who they say they are?
How could you respond if you see a friend posting something unsafe online?
What are safe ways to connect with people you meet online?
Discussion:
Why is it important to know and understand how to use the Internet in a safe, responsible, and effective manner?
Grades 9-12
Discussion: Why is it important to protect your personal information online? Can online friendships be dangerous? What steps can you take to ensure that your online friendships are safe?
You can use this video to engage students in a discussion about the importance of evaluating Internet sources for accuracy and avoiding bias.
Video - Real News vs. Fake News
Use this checklist to learn how to find valid Internet sources - Evaluating Internet Sources (PDF)
Discussion: How do you know your online sources are accurate? What is bias? What can you do to decrease bias in your research? What steps can you take to identify misinformation?
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Cherokee County Schools provides equal opportunity in its programs, activities, and employment. We are committed to making electronic and information technologies accessible to individuals with disabilities in accordance with Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act. We are in the process of auditing and remediating content as we strive to provide a fully accessible site. Please direct inquiries regarding our non-discrimination policies, website accessibility, or requests for accessible/alternate documents or information to admin@cherokeek12.org.