Our 1st grade lesson referred to stop light colors as a way to determine appropriate websites. Green light sites are just right for kids their age, have fun things to do and see, use words they can understand, and do not let students talk with other people. Yellow light websites are those which students should ask permission before using because they may ask for student information or allow them to talk to other users. Red light websites are not appropriate for kids their age and may contain words or pictures meant for big kids or adults and let them talk with anyone online. Oftentimes, 1st graders may come across a red light website on accident.
3rd graders practiced identifying the difference between personal and private information. While personal information includes our favorites or general information, private information would be things like their full name, address, phone number, passwords, etc., which could be harmful if shared online with others. Students also practiced creating a safe profile about themselves so that they would be prepared and know how to create a safe profile later down the road.
Safely Talking Online was our 4th grade topic. It placed a large emphasis on reviewing personal vs. private information and reminding students the difference between face-to-face friends and online friends. Since most people online are really strangers (and not face-to-face friends), we practiced how to safely respond to questions from other people online that might be looking for their private information.
5th grade Bobcats completed a lesson which focused on Social Networks (Social Media) and Cyberbullying. We discussed how to safely take part on social media so that later when they are old enough to do so, they have the knowledge on how to in an appropriate way. We also talked about how and why cyberbullying may take place and ways to handle cyberbullying.
Most of these grades will complete an additional internet safety lesson sometime this fall. Our Kinder and 2nd grade students will also be taking part in internet safety lessons as well.