Digital Communications
Character and Respect Poster
Trustworthy or not?
Do you feel like you can trust the individuals you communicate with over the Internet?

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Digital Communication
Select a medium of digital communication (i.e. Instant Messaging, chat rooms, e-mails, etc.). What are the dangers of using this mode of communication? What are the benefits of using this mode of communication?

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Email Constitution
Today we are going to write our own Email Constitution, which will include our rights and at the same time what we are not allowed to do on the Internet. Give some input on what you should and shouldn't be allowed to include in this constitution and possible rewards or repercussions.

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Description
The Internet opens global access to a world of knowledge and information, providing a vast library of previously unavailable resources. It lets you communicate with people around the world from the comforts of your home or school. It provides numerous ways for self expression--writing, art, music, science, mathematics. Always be aware and stay safe.
Connections to Virginia SOLs
English 6.2, 7.6, 8.7

Students learning to distinguish between fact and opinion in their own communications can see the connection to information found on Web sites.
7.3, 8.3
Students exploring persuasive messages can see how these same techniques are used in Web content and advertisements.

History/Social Science USII.8, CE.3, CE.8, CE.10, CE.11, CE.12
Students exploring the impact of new technologies on our culture should examine safety issues related to the Internet and other electronic communication devices.

Learning Objectives
Students will be able to...
  •  Organize and compare their thoughts on cyberbullying
  •  Demonstrate an understanding of key cybervocabulary
  •  Compare and contrast real world issues and situations they may run into on the world wide web
  •  Demonstrate an understanding of the process of creating a secure password
Suggested Activities
1. Create a class password for a computer. (See Digital Communications)

2. Have students act out scenarios based on key words from this section. (See Digital Communications)

3. Engage students in comparing and contrasting "Bullying vs. CyberBullying" (cyberbullying includes text, calls, photos, videos, IM, and e-mail).  For this activity use a Venn Diagram.
Related Resources & Links
Pages 4-7 in Educator's Edition