Screen Time Savvy

Christine Dinsdale

Tier 1

Lesson Plan

Screen Time Savvy

Managing Screen Time & Video Games

This lesson aims to help students understand the impact of screen time and video games on their daily lives and well-being. Through discussion, reading, and an interactive activity, students will learn strategies to manage their screen time effectively. This lesson is important as it empowers students to make informed decisions about their digital habits, promoting a balanced lifestyle.

Audience

Grade 8 Students

Time

30 minutes

Approach

Active Learning, Collaborative Learning, Game-Based Learning, Experiential Learning

Materials

Discussion Questions, Reading Handout, Activity Instructions, Post-it Notes, and Pens

Step 1

Introduction

5 mins

Begin with a brief introduction about the importance of managing screen time and video games.
Explain the objectives of the lesson and what students will learn.

Step 2

Discussion

10 mins

Use the provided discussion questions to engage students in a conversation about their current screen time habits.
Encourage students to share their thoughts and experiences.

Step 3

Reading

5 mins

Distribute the reading handout that provides information on the effects of excessive screen time.
Allow students a few minutes to read and reflect on the content.

Step 4

Activity 1

8 mins

Organize students into small groups and provide them with the activity instructions.
Each group will brainstorm and create a plan to manage their screen time effectively using post-it notes and pens.
Encourage creativity and collaboration.

Step 5

Activity 2: Impact on Sleep

8 mins

Have students individually reflect on their screen use before bed and how it affects their sleep.
In pairs, students will discuss their reflections and brainstorm strategies to improve their sleep hygiene, such as reducing screen time before bed or using blue light filters.
Share strategies with the class and discuss the importance of good sleep hygiene.

Step 6

Closure

2 mins

Ask each group to share one key takeaway from their discussion and activity.
Summarize the lesson and emphasize the importance of balanced screen time.

0 educators
use Lenny to create lessons.

No credit card needed

Discussion

Discussion Questions on Screen Time

A set of questions to guide a discussion on screen time and video games.

How much time do you spend on screens daily?

Encourage students to think about all types of screens, including phones, computers, and TVs.

What are some positive and negative effects of video games?

Discuss both the entertainment and educational benefits, as well as potential downsides like reduced physical activity.

How can you balance screen time with other activities?

Guide students to think about setting limits and prioritizing other activities like sports, reading, or family time.

Reading

Reading Handout on Screen Time

A brief reading on the effects of screen time and strategies to manage it.

Understanding Screen Time

Screen time refers to the amount of time spent using devices with screens such as smartphones, computers, and televisions. While technology can be beneficial, excessive screen time can lead to issues such as eye strain, sleep problems, and reduced physical activity.

Strategies to Manage Screen Time

Set specific time limits for daily screen use.
Take regular breaks to rest your eyes and stretch.
Engage in screen-free activities like reading, sports, or hobbies.
Use apps or settings to monitor and control screen time.

Worksheet

Activity Instructions for Screen Time Management

Instructions for a group activity to create a screen time management plan.

Brainstorm ways to reduce screen time and list them on post-it notes.

Think about activities you enjoy that don't involve screens.

Create a weekly schedule that includes screen time and other activities.

Balance your schedule with time for homework, exercise, and relaxation.

Worksheet

Activity Instructions for Impact on Sleep

Instructions for an activity focused on understanding the impact of screen time on sleep and developing strategies to improve sleep hygiene.

Reflect on your screen use before bed and how it affects your sleep.

Consider how screen time might delay sleep onset or affect sleep quality.

Discuss with a partner and brainstorm strategies to improve sleep hygiene.

Think about reducing screen time before bed, using blue light filters, or setting a bedtime routine.