Digital Citizenship: Be a Cyber-Hero! - Teacher Script

Warm-Up: Digital World Check-In (5 minutes)

Teacher: "Good morning/afternoon, everyone! Today, we're going to talk about something super important for all of us who use the internet, which is pretty much everyone, right? We're going to talk about being a 'Cyber-Hero' and what that means for how we act online."

Teacher: "Let's start with a quick check-in. In your minds, or if you want to share out loud, what are some of your favorite things to do online? Maybe it's playing games, watching videos, chatting with friends, or learning new things?"

(Allow a few students to share. Acknowledge their responses positively.)

Teacher: "Great! The internet offers so many amazing opportunities. Now, let's think about the flip side. What are some things that sometimes make you feel uncomfortable, worried, or even a little unsafe when you're online? Have you ever seen something or experienced something that made you pause?"

(Allow a few students to share, guiding them to focus on general experiences rather than specific personal details. Emphasize that it's okay to feel this way and to talk about it.)

Teacher: "Thank you for sharing. It's totally normal to have both positive and sometimes challenging experiences online. That's why understanding digital citizenship is so important. It helps us enjoy the good parts and protect ourselves from the not-so-good parts. Let's dive in!"

Introduction to Digital Citizenship (Slides & Video) (8 minutes)

Teacher: "Alright, let's get our Digital Citizenship Slides up! Our goal today is to become Cyber-Heroes!"

(Advance to Slide 1: "Be a Cyber-Hero: Digital Citizenship")

Teacher: "The title of our lesson is 'Digital Citizenship: Be a Cyber-Hero!' When we talk about citizenship, we usually think about being a good member of our community or country, following rules, and being respectful. Digital citizenship is very similar, but it's about being a good citizen in the digital world—the online world."

(Advance to Slide 2: "What is a Cyber-Hero?")

Teacher: "A Cyber-Hero knows how to do three key things: Stay Safe Online, Protect Your Privacy, and Act Responsibly. We'll explore each of these today. Being a Cyber-Hero means you're smart, safe, and respectful when you're using the internet."

(Advance to Slide 3: "Watch This: Your Digital Footprint")

Teacher: "Before we go further, I have a short video that really helps explain an important concept: your digital footprint. As you watch, think about what this 'footprint' means for your online presence."

(Play the embedded video: Video Link - Ensure the video is ready to play smoothly.)

Teacher: "What did you take away from that video? What do they mean by a 'digital footprint'? Why is it important to be aware of it?"

(Facilitate a brief discussion on the digital footprint concept, emphasizing permanence and consequences.)

(Advance to Slide 4: "Staying Safe Online: Your Shield")

Teacher: "Great insights! Let's talk about the first part of being a Cyber-Hero: Staying Safe Online. Think of this as your digital shield. What are some ways we can protect ourselves?"

(Discuss the points on the slide: Personal Info is Private, Strong Passwords, Think Before You Click, Report & Block. Elaborate on each, providing simple examples. Emphasize talking to a trusted adult if something feels wrong.)

(Advance to Slide 5: "Protecting Your Privacy: Your Secret Keeper")

Teacher: "Next up is Protecting Your Privacy. This is like being your own secret keeper. What kind of information should we keep private, and how can we do that?"

(Discuss the points: Privacy Settings are Your Friends, Don't Overshare, Digital Footprint, Ask for Permission. Connect this back to the video on the digital footprint. Emphasize respecting others' privacy too.)

(Advance to Slide 6: "Act Responsibly Online: Be Kind, Be Smart")

Teacher: "Finally, and just as important, is Acting Responsibly Online. This is about being kind and smart. How do you think treating people online is similar or different to how you treat them in person?"

(Discuss the points: Be Respectful, No Cyberbullying, Fact-Check, Give Credit. Highlight the importance of empathy and critical thinking.)

Scenario Sort Activity (7 minutes)

(Advance to Slide 7: "Time for Action: Scenario Sort!")

Teacher: "Now it's your turn to apply what we've learned! I'm going to divide you into small groups. Each group will get a set of Scenario Sort Activity cards. Your task is to read each scenario and decide if it represents a 'Safe/Responsible' or 'Unsafe/Irresponsible' online action. You'll need to briefly explain why you put it in that category."

(Divide students into groups. Distribute the scenario cards. Circulate among groups, listening to discussions, asking probing questions, and offering guidance.)

Teacher: "Okay, let's bring it back together. Can one group share a scenario they found particularly interesting and explain their sorting?"

(Facilitate a quick whole-class discussion, using the Digital Dilemmas Discussion Guide prompts if needed, to review a few scenarios and ensure understanding.)

Reading & Reflection (5 minutes)

Teacher: "Excellent work with the scenarios! Now, to deepen our understanding, I'm going to hand out a short Online Safety Reading and a Cyber-Hero Worksheet. Please read the text individually and then answer the reflection questions on the worksheet. This is your chance to think personally about how you can be a Cyber-Hero."

(Distribute the reading and worksheet. Ensure students have enough space to work quietly.)

Cool Down & Quiz (5 minutes)

(Advance to Slide 8: "You're a Cyber-Hero!")

Teacher: "Alright, everyone, time to wrap up our discussion for today. Before we finish, can someone share just one new thing they learned or one way they plan to be a better Cyber-Hero online?"

(Allow a few students to share. Affirm their responses.)

Teacher: "Fantastic! To quickly check our understanding, please complete this short Digital Citizenship Quiz. Do your best, and remember, this helps me see what we've learned today."

(Distribute the quizzes. Collect them when completed. Mention that the Digital Citizenship Test is a more comprehensive assessment that could be used later.)

Teacher: "You all have the power to make the internet a safer, more positive place for everyone. Keep practicing these skills, make smart choices, and be the amazing Cyber-Heroes I know you are! Great job today!"

Cyber-Hero Worksheet

Name: __________________________

Date: __________________________

Reflect and Respond

After reviewing the information on digital citizenship and the Online Safety Reading, answer the following questions thoughtfully:

1. What does the term "digital footprint" mean to you in your own words? Why is it important to be mindful of your digital footprint?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

2. List three specific ways you can protect your personal information when you are online.

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3. Imagine a friend shares a link with you that looks a little suspicious, but they say it's really cool. What steps should you take before clicking on it, or what should you do instead?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

4. How can you ensure you are being respectful and kind when communicating with others online? Give at least two examples of responsible online communication.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

5. If you encounter something online that makes you feel uncomfortable or unsafe, what is the first thing you should do? Why is it important to tell a trusted adult?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

6. Think about one online situation where you could be a "Cyber-Hero." Describe the situation and how you would act responsibly and safely.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

Becoming a Digital Citizen: Your Guide to Online Safety

Welcome to the amazing world of the internet! It's a place where you can learn, play, connect, and create. But just like any big city, the digital world has its own rules and ways to stay safe. Becoming a good digital citizen means understanding how to use the internet responsibly, respectfully, and safely.

Your Digital Footprint: What You Leave Behind

Every time you go online—whether you're searching for something, posting a photo, commenting on a video, or even just liking something—you leave a mark. This is called your digital footprint. Think of it like footprints in the sand; once you walk, your prints are there for a while, and sometimes, they can be seen by many people. Your digital footprint is the trail of data you leave behind online.

Why is this important? Because your digital footprint can be permanent. Things you post today could be seen by future colleges, employers, or even just people you meet. A Cyber-Hero thinks before they click, post, or share, understanding that their online actions can have real-world consequences.

Staying Safe Online: Your Digital Shield

Keeping yourself safe online is like wearing a shield. Here are some key ways to protect yourself:

• Keep Personal Information Private: Never share your full name, home address, phone number, school name, age, or photos that reveal where you live or go to school with people you don't know and trust online. Even with friends, think twice about what sensitive information you share.

• Create Strong Passwords: Your passwords are the keys to your digital accounts. Make them long, use a mix of capital and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Never share your passwords with anyone, except a trusted parent or guardian.

• Think Before You Click: Be cautious of strange links, pop-ups, or emails. If something looks too good to be true, or asks for personal information, it's probably a trick. Always get permission from a trusted adult before downloading anything or clicking on unfamiliar links.

• Report and Block: If someone sends you a mean message, says something inappropriate, or asks you to do something that makes you uncomfortable, don't respond. Instead, tell a trusted adult (like a parent, teacher, or counselor) immediately. You can also block people who are bothering you.

Protecting Your Privacy: Your Secret Keeper

Privacy online means deciding what information about you others can see. You are your own secret keeper!

• Use Privacy Settings: Most social media apps, games, and websites have privacy settings. Learn how to use them to control who sees your posts, photos, and personal information. Set your accounts to private if you want to share only with approved friends.

• Don't Overshare: Just because you can post something, doesn't mean you should. Before you share a photo or story, ask yourself: Is this something I want everyone to know? Could it embarrass me or someone else later? Does it reveal too much personal information?

• Respect Others' Privacy: Just as you want your privacy protected, your friends do too! Always ask for permission before posting a photo or any information about someone else online. What might seem funny to you could be embarrassing or upsetting to them.

Acting Responsibly Online: Be Kind, Be Smart

Being a digital citizen also means being a good neighbor in the online community. This is about showing respect and being smart.

• Be Respectful: The golden rule applies online too: Treat others as you want to be treated. Don't use bad language, make fun of people, or start arguments. Constructive criticism is okay, but meanness is not.

• No Cyberbullying: Cyberbullying is when someone uses digital technology to repeatedly upset or harm another person. This includes sending mean messages, spreading rumors, or sharing embarrassing photos without permission. If you see cyberbullying, don't join in, report it, and support the person being targeted.

• Fact-Check Before You Share: The internet is full of information, but not all of it is true. Before you share news or information, especially if it seems unbelievable, check to see if it's from a reliable source. Don't spread rumors or misinformation.

• Give Credit Where It's Due: If you use photos, videos, or information that someone else created, make sure to give them credit. It's respectful and part of being an honest digital citizen.

By following these guidelines, you can navigate the digital world confidently and become a true Cyber-Hero, making the internet a better place for everyone!

Digital Dilemmas Discussion Guide

This guide provides prompts for discussion during and after the Scenario Sort Activity. Teachers can use these questions to facilitate group and whole-class conversations, encouraging deeper thinking about digital citizenship.

Discussion Prompts for Groups (During Scenario Sort)

• "Why did you classify this scenario as safe/responsible (or unsafe/irresponsible)? What specific parts of the situation led you to that conclusion?"
• "What potential consequences could arise from the actions in this scenario? Think about both short-term and long-term effects."
• "If someone in the scenario made an unsafe choice, what advice would you give them to act more responsibly next time?"
• "Does this scenario relate to your own experiences or things you've seen online? (No need to share personal details, just think about the connection.)"
• "Are there any gray areas in this scenario? Could different people interpret it differently? Why?"

Whole-Class Discussion Prompts (After Scenario Sort)

• "Let's discuss Scenario #[insert number]. Who placed it in the 'Safe/Responsible' category? Why? Who placed it in 'Unsafe/Irresponsible'? Why? Let's discuss the differences in thinking."
• "Were there any scenarios that were particularly challenging to classify? What made them difficult?"
• "What was a common theme you noticed across the 'Unsafe/Irresponsible' scenarios?"
• "What was a common theme you noticed across the 'Safe/Responsible' scenarios?"
• "Thinking about our discussion, what is one key takeaway about online safety or privacy that you'll remember?"
• "How can being a good digital citizen protect you? How can it help others online?"
• "What role do trusted adults play in helping us navigate digital dilemmas? When should you reach out for help?"

Scenario Sort Activity: Digital Dilemmas

Instructions: Read each scenario carefully. As a group, discuss whether the action described is Safe/Responsible or Unsafe/Irresponsible. Write a brief explanation for your choice. Be prepared to share your reasoning with the class.

Scenario Card 1

Scenario: You receive a message from an unknown number saying, "Click here to win a free gaming console!" It looks like a popular brand.

Classification: (Circle One) Safe/Responsible | Unsafe/Irresponsible

Explanation:

Scenario Card 2

Scenario: Your friend posts a photo of you without asking, making a funny face you didn't want everyone to see. You feel a little embarrassed.

Classification: (Circle One) Safe/Responsible | Unsafe/Irresponsible

Explanation:

Scenario Card 3

Scenario: You're playing an online game, and another player starts using mean and insulting language towards you and other players.

Classification: (Circle One) Safe/Responsible | Unsafe/Irresponsible

Explanation:

Scenario Card 4

Scenario: You change your social media privacy settings so only your approved friends can see your posts and photos.

Classification: (Circle One) Safe/Responsible | Unsafe/Irresponsible

Explanation:

Scenario Card 5

Scenario: You find a cool meme online and want to share it, but you make sure to tag the original creator in your post.

Classification: (Circle One) Safe/Responsible | Unsafe/Irresponsible

Explanation:

Scenario Card 6

Scenario: Someone online asks for your school name and what street you live on, saying they want to send you a gift because you're a great gamer.

Classification: (Circle One) Safe/Responsible | Unsafe/Irresponsible

Explanation:

Scenario Card 7

Scenario: You see a rumor about a classmate spreading online. You decide not to share it, and instead, you privately message the classmate to see if they're okay.

Classification: (Circle One) Safe/Responsible | Unsafe/Irresponsible

Explanation:

Scenario Card 8

Scenario: You're doing research for a school project and copy-paste an entire paragraph from a website into your report without citing the source.

Classification: (Circle One) Safe/Responsible | Unsafe/Irresponsible

Explanation:

Scenario Card 9

Scenario: You create a strong password for a new online account, using a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols, and don't share it with anyone.

Classification: (Circle One) Safe/Responsible | Unsafe/Irresponsible

Explanation:

Answer Key

Cyber-Hero Worksheet Answers

1. What does the term "digital footprint" mean to you in your own words? Why is it important to be mindful of your digital footprint?

   • Thought Process: The answer should define a digital footprint as the information left behind online. The importance should relate to its permanence and how it can affect future opportunities or reputation.
   • Sample Answer: My digital footprint is all the information about me that exists online, like photos, comments, and posts. It's important to be mindful of it because once something is online, it can be really hard to remove, and it can be seen by many people, including future colleges or employers. A positive footprint shows I'm responsible.

2. List three specific ways you can protect your personal information when you are online.

   • Thought Process: Students should recall methods discussed in the lesson or reading for safeguarding personal data.
   • Sample Answer:
     1. Not sharing my home address, phone number, or school name with strangers.
     2. Using strong, unique passwords for all my accounts.
     3. Adjusting privacy settings on social media and games to limit who sees my information.

3. Imagine a friend shares a link with you that looks a little suspicious, but they say it's really cool. What steps should you take before clicking on it, or what should you do instead?

   • Thought Process: The answer should focus on caution and seeking verification or adult help.
   • Sample Answer: I should not click on the link immediately. I would ask my friend more about what the link is and if they've checked it for viruses. If I'm still unsure, or if it looks very suspicious, I would show it to a trusted adult (like a parent or teacher) before doing anything. It's better to be safe than sorry.

4. How can you ensure you are being respectful and kind when communicating with others online? Give at least two examples of responsible online communication.

   • Thought Process: The answer should demonstrate an understanding of online etiquette and empathy.
   • Sample Answer: I can ensure I'm respectful by treating others online just like I would treat them in person, using polite language, and thinking about how my words might make someone feel. Examples: Not participating in gossip or rumors, and making sure my comments are encouraging, not critical.

5. If you encounter something online that makes you feel uncomfortable or unsafe, what is the first thing you should do? Why is it important to tell a trusted adult?

   • Thought Process: The answer should prioritize reporting to an adult and explain the reasons for this action.
   • Sample Answer: The first thing I should do is stop interacting with whatever is making me uncomfortable and tell a trusted adult immediately. It's important to tell an adult because they have more experience and knowledge to help me, can report serious issues, and can ensure my safety and well-being.

6. Think about one online situation where you could be a "Cyber-Hero." Describe the situation and how you would act responsibly and safely.

   • Thought Process: This is an open-ended question, but the response should reflect concepts learned in the lesson.
   • Sample Answer: A situation where I could be a Cyber-Hero is if I see someone leaving mean comments on another person's post. Instead of joining in or ignoring it, I would report the comments to the platform and privately message the person being targeted to offer my support and check if they are okay. I would also make sure I don't share the mean comments myself.

Digital Citizenship Quiz Answers

1. What is a 'digital footprint'?

   • Correct Answer: The trail of data you leave behind online.

2. Which of these is NOT considered personal information you should keep private online?

   • Correct Answer: Your favorite color

3. What should you do if you receive a suspicious link or message from an unknown sender?

   • Correct Answer: Delete it and tell a trusted adult.

4. Why is it important to use strong, unique passwords for your online accounts?

   • Correct Answer: To protect your accounts from unauthorized access.

5. Before posting a photo of a friend online, what should you always do?

   • Correct Answer: Ask for their permission.

Digital Citizenship Test Answers

1. Explain in your own words what digital citizenship means and why it is important for middle school students today.

   • Thought Process: The answer should define digital citizenship as responsible online behavior and explain its relevance to safety, privacy, and future implications for middle schoolers.
   • Sample Answer: Digital citizenship is about being a responsible, safe, and ethical user of technology and the internet. It's important for middle school students because it teaches them how to protect their personal information, avoid cyberbullying, understand their digital footprint, and make smart choices online that can affect their real lives and future.

2. Which of the following is the best example of protecting your online privacy?

   • Correct Answer: Setting your social media profiles to 'private' so only approved friends can see your posts.

3. Describe at least three characteristics of a strong password. Why are strong passwords crucial for online safety?

   • Thought Process: The answer should list characteristics like length, variety of characters, and explain the importance for security.
   • Sample Answer: Three characteristics of a strong password include: using a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, including numbers, and using special symbols (e.g., !, @, #, $). Strong passwords are crucial because they make it much harder for others to guess or hack into your accounts, thereby protecting your personal information and online identity.

4. You see a classmate being cyberbullied in a group chat. What is the most responsible action to take?

   • Correct Answer: Tell a trusted adult, block the cyberbully, and offer support to the classmate.

5. Explain the concept of a 'digital footprint.' How can a positive digital footprint benefit you in the future?

   • Thought Process: The answer should define digital footprint and then elaborate on how a positive one can impact future opportunities.
   • Sample Answer: A digital footprint is the record of your online activities and interactions, including posts, comments, photos, and website visits. A positive digital footprint can benefit you in the future by presenting a responsible and mature image to potential colleges or employers, showcasing your skills and interests positively, and contributing to a strong online reputation. It shows you make smart choices and respect others online.

6. Which action demonstrates responsible behavior when encountering information online?

   • Correct Answer: Checking the source and fact-checking information before sharing it.

7. A new online game asks for your full name, home address, and a picture of your school ID to verify your age. What should you do? Explain your reasoning.

   • Thought Process: The answer should identify this as a privacy risk and advise against sharing, emphasizing reporting to an adult.
   • Sample Answer: You should absolutely NOT provide your full name, home address, or a picture of your school ID. This is a huge red flag and a request for too much personal information. Most legitimate games do not require this level of detail for age verification. You should close the application/website, tell a trusted adult, and avoid engaging with it further. Sharing such information could lead to identity theft or other safety risks.