In This Lesson
Overview
The Internet has become one of the most pervasive and useful technological tools available. Regardless of our age or technological savvy, many of us find ourselves navigating the Internet daily for a number of purposes. We communicate with friends and family; research information for work, school, or for personal curiosity; keep up with current events; and even shop online. There’s no question that the benefits of the Internet are plenty; but are we ever sacrificing our right to privacy for the sake of convenience?
In this lesson, students will explore right-to-privacy issues related to Internet use. They will take a close look at the privacy policies that exist on their favorite websites, and they will identify the ways these policies protect their personal information. They will discuss slander and determine whether the Internet is ever an appropriate venue to post insulting remarks about their peers, teachers, or their school in general. Students will also distinguish information they feel safe sharing on chat boards, in blogs, or on personal web pages from information they prefer to keep private, and they will research the laws that exist to protect their safety online.
Grade Level:
Grades 9-12
Time Allotment:
4-5 45-minute class periods
Subject Matter:
Behavioral Studies, Ethics, Language Arts, Privacy Issues, Sociology, Technology
Learning Objectives
Students will:
- Distinguish personal information that can be shared safely online from information that should be kept private.
- Explore the privacy policies of various websites.
- Define “slander,” and determine whether it is acceptable to post insulting remarks about an individual online or if this is an invasion of that person’s right to privacy.
- Identify laws that exist to protect their right to privacy.
Standards
This lesson was prepared by: Erin Audia
