Online Identity Worksheet

Name: _____________________________

Date: _____________________________

Part 1: Your Digital Footprint

1. List three types of online activities you regularly engage in (e.g., social media, gaming, online research, streaming).
   
   
   
   

2. Think about what kind of information you intentionally share online (e.g., photos, opinions, personal details). Give two examples.
   
   
   
   

3. What kind of information might be collected about you online without your direct input (passive digital footprint)? Give two examples.
   
   
   
   

Part 2: Reflecting on Your Digital Self

4. Imagine a college admissions officer or a potential employer views your online presence. What would you want them to see? What would you hope they don't see?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

5. Describe one online post or activity you've done that you are proud of. Why are you proud of it?
   
   
   
   

6. Describe one online post or activity you've done (or seen others do) that you regret or think might have negative consequences. What could have been done differently?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

Part 3: Building a Positive Digital Identity

7. What is one specific action you can take starting today to improve or maintain a positive digital footprint?
   
   
   
   

8. Why is it important to think critically about privacy settings on social media and other online platforms?
   
   
   
   

Digital Dilemmas Activity

Instructions: In your small groups, read each scenario carefully. Discuss the questions that follow and be prepared to share your group's thoughts with the class. Consider the potential consequences of each action and what a responsible digital citizen would do.

Scenario 1: The Embarrassing Photo

Your friend posts a photo of you at a party on social media. You look a little silly, and you're worried about how it might be perceived by others, especially your teachers or future employers.

Discussion Questions:

• What are the potential short-term and long-term consequences of this photo being online?
• What steps can you take to address this situation with your friend?
• What are your rights regarding photos of you posted by others?

Scenario 2: The Heated Comment Section

You see a news article shared on social media, and the comments section is full of angry and negative remarks, some of which are directed at people you know. You feel strongly about the topic and want to join the conversation.

Discussion Questions:

• What are the risks of engaging in a heated online discussion?
• How might your comments be perceived by others, even if you think you are right?
• What are some strategies for responding respectfully or deciding not to respond at all?

Scenario 3: The Fake Profile

You discover that someone has created a fake social media profile using your name and some of your photos, and they are posting things that are not true and could damage your reputation.

Discussion Questions:

• What immediate actions should you take?
• Who should you report this to? (Think both online platforms and real-world authorities.)
• What are the potential emotional and social impacts of this situation?

Scenario 4: The Shared Secrets

A close friend tells you something very personal and asks you not to share it with anyone. Later, you see a vague but recognizable post on another friend's private story that seems to be hinting at your friend's secret. You're upset that the secret is getting out.

Discussion Questions:

• What responsibilities do you have when someone shares a secret with you, especially online?
• What are the potential consequences of online gossip and sharing private information, even indirectly?
• How would you approach your friends in this situation to protect the original secret-sharer?

Digital Citizenship Discussion Guide

Instructions: After discussing the Digital Dilemmas in your small groups, we will come together as a class to share our thoughts and explore best practices for responsible digital citizenship. Use these prompts to guide our conversation.

Reflecting on the Dilemmas

1. What were some common themes or challenges that emerged from your group's scenarios?
   
   
   
   

2. Were there any scenarios where your group disagreed on the best course of action? How did you resolve those disagreements?
   
   
   
   

3. What was the most surprising or impactful takeaway from discussing your scenario?
   
   
   
   

Principles of Digital Citizenship

4. Based on our discussions, what does it mean to be a responsible digital citizen?
   
   
   
   

5. How can the concept of "thinking before you post" help prevent negative digital footprints?
   
   
   
   

6. What are some ways we can support our friends and peers in cultivating positive digital identities?
   
   
   
   

7. What is one thing you will do differently after today's lesson to manage your online presence?