The Power of Words
As kids grow, they'll naturally start to communicate more online. But some of what they see could make them feel hurt, sad, angry, or even fearful. Help your students build empathy for others and learn strategies to use when confronted with cyberbullying.
Key Standards Supported
Lesson Plan
Warm Up: Same Word. Different Meaning.
10 mins.Watch: The Power of Words
15 mins.Investigate: What's the Problem?
10 mins.Wrap Up: Crossing the Line
10 mins.Prepare slips of paper with comments that say mildly unkind things, like:
- I can't believe you like superhero shows. Only first-graders do.
- You are weird.
- Why are you wearing THAT shirt?
Pass out one slip to each student and pair them up. Have students trade slips and read them silently. Then have them trade back and take turns saying the comment aloud to the other person. Ask them what the difference was between writing something not-so-nice and being accountable for what they were saying to someone's face. Emphasize that people sometimes hide behind the anonymity of their online activity. Remind students that if they wouldn't say something to another person's face, it's not OK to say it in their online activities.