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Use technology safely, respectfully and responsibly - Computing Year 5

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Introduction

Office of Special Investigations gives insight to parents about internet safety for children (7655878).jpg

Welcome to your guide on becoming a Super Digital Citizen! The internet is a huge, exciting place where you can learn, play games, and connect with friends. But just like walking in a new city, it is important to know how to stay safe and be kind. In this course, you will learn how to spot "red flags" from strangers, how to protect your private information from "doxxing," and what to do if someone is being mean online. You will also discover how to use "report buttons" to help keep the internet a friendly place for everyone. Let's get started on your journey to navigating the digital world safely and responsibly!

Being a Good Digital Citizen

Just as there are rules for being a good citizen in the physical world, there are rules for being a good citizen in the digital world. This is known as being a Digital Citizen. When you use the internet, play online games, or use social media, you are entering a massive global community. Being a good digital citizen means using technology in a way that is helpful, honest, and respectful to others. It involves understanding that there is a real person behind every screen name, profile picture, or avatar. This means that the same rules of kindness and honesty that apply in your classroom or at home also apply when you are typing on a keyboard or speaking into a microphone.

One essential part of this is Netiquette. Netiquette is a set of unwritten rules that helps everyone get along in digital spaces. Good netiquette includes saying please and thank you, avoiding the use of all capital letters (which can look like shouting), and refraining from "flaming," which is when someone starts an argument or uses angry language to upset others. When you communicate online, you should always treat others the way you would want to be treated in person. If you wouldn't say something to someone's face, you should not type it on a screen.

We must also be aware of our Digital Footprint. Every time you post a comment, share a photo, or like a video, you leave a tiny trail of information behind. This trail can be permanent and can be seen by people you know and people you don't. A responsible digital citizen thinks about how their actions might look to others in the future. They choose to leave a positive trail by sharing interesting facts, supporting their friends, and being a helpful member of the community.

Finally, it is important to recognize the difference between positive and negative interactions. A positive interaction occurs when you offer a compliment, share a helpful tip, or help a teammate solve a problem in a game. A negative interaction might be "trolling," which is intentionally upsetting someone, or spreading rumors about a classmate. By recognizing these behaviors, you can help make the internet a safer and friendlier place for everyone.

A worked example, step by step

Scenario: You are playing an online game with a group of people you do not know personally. One player joins the chat and starts making fun of another player's character, calling it "lame" and telling the person to quit the game.

Analysis:

Identify the interaction: This is a negative interaction.
Why is it negative? It is disrespectful and is meant to make the other person feel bad or excluded. It violates the rules of netiquette.
How would a good digital citizen react? A good digital citizen would not join in on the teasing. They might choose to ignore the mean comments, or they could report the player to the game's moderators. If they wanted to be helpful, they could type a kind message to the person being teased to show support.

Try it yourself

Scenario: You are in a group chat with your classmates to plan a project for school. One student, Alex, writes: "I hate your idea. It is way too complicated and no one will like it. We should do something else."

Tasks:

Is Alex's message a positive or negative interaction?
Why is it considered negative?
Write a response to Alex that follows the rules of good netiquette while still trying to move the project forward.

Solution and explanation:

This is a negative interaction.
It is negative because it is rude and unhelpful. Instead of offering a specific reason why the idea might be difficult, Alex just puts the other person down, which can hurt their feelings and stop the group from working together.
A good netiquette response would be: "I understand that you are worried about the difficulty, Alex. Could you tell me which part specifically seems too complicated? Maybe we can work together to simplify it so it fits our project goals."

Spotting Online Risks and Red Flags

When you are online, you are part of a big digital community. Just like in your classroom or on a playground, there are rules for how to behave. Being a good digital citizen means being kind, respectful, and responsible. Acceptable behavior includes using polite language, helping others, and respecting the feelings of everyone you interact with. Unacceptable behavior, such as using "hate speech," being mean on purpose, or posting things that make others feel scared or upset, can hurt people and is never okay.

One of the most important ways to stay safe is by protecting your private information. Your private information is anything that can be used to find out where you live, who you are, or where you go. This includes your full name, your home address, your phone number, and your school. You should never share these details with people you don't know in real life. If someone shares your private information online without your permission, this is called Doxxing. It can be used by people with bad intentions to find you or harass you offline.

Another serious risk is Cyberbullying. This happens when someone uses digital devices to repeatedly be mean, threaten, or leave someone out on purpose. It can happen in game chats, on social media, or through messages. It is important to recognize that cyberbullying can be just as hurtful as bullying in person. If you see this happening, you should not join in; instead, you should tell a trusted adult immediately.

Finally, you must be aware of Online Predation and grooming. This is when an adult or an older person tries to trick a child into a relationship by pretending to be a friend. They might offer gifts, play games with you, or try to make you feel special. A major "red flag" is if a stranger asks you to keep your friendship a secret from your parents or asks you to send private photos of yourself. If someone online ever asks you to do something that feels weird, uncomfortable, or secret, it is a red flag. Stop talking to them and tell a trusted adult right away.

A worked example, step by step

Scenario: You are playing an online building game. A player named "BuilderBuddy" joins your group. They say, "I love your house! I want to give you a super rare item. Can you tell me your school name and what street you live on so I can send it to you?"

How to analyze this:

Identify the risk: This is a request for private information.
Spot the red flag: A stranger is asking for personal details (school and street) in exchange for a "gift." This is a common trick used by people who want to find out where you live.
Determine the correct action: You should not give out any information.
The solution: Send a polite message saying, "I can't share my personal information online," then block the user and tell a parent or teacher about the interaction.

Try it yourself

Imagine you are in a chat room for a game you love. A person you have never met before sends you a message saying: "You are so good at this game! I want to be best friends. Can you send me a photo of yourself so I can see who my new best friend is? Also, please don't tell your parents about our chat, it's our special secret."

What should you do in this situation? List three reasons why this message contains "red flags" and describe what your next step should be.

Solution and explanation: Action: You should not send the photo. You should tell a trusted adult (like a parent, teacher, or older sibling) about the message immediately.

Reasons for the red flags:

The person is asking for a photo of you, which is private information and can be used by strangers for grooming.
They are asking you to keep the friendship a "secret" from your parents. This is a major warning sign that the person might be trying to hide something bad.
It is a stranger trying to move from a public chat to a private, secret relationship very quickly.

Next step: Block the user from your game and show the message to a trusted adult so they can help you stay safe.

Taking Action: Reporting Inappropriate Content

When you are using the internet, apps, or online games, you might sometimes see things that make you feel uncomfortable, scared, or confused. This could be mean comments, scary images, or people asking you for private information. It is very important to know that you do not have to ignore these things. Reporting is the best way to help make the digital world safer for everyone. Most websites and apps have special tools built in to help users highlight problems. These are usually called 'report buttons' or 'flagging' tools. By using these, you are helping the platform identify content that might violate their rules.

Different types of platforms have different ways of reporting. For example, on a social media app, you might find a report option on an individual post or in the profile of a person who is being mean. In an online game, there is often a 'report player' button in the chat menu or the scoreboard. If you see a video that is offensive or dangerous, platforms like YouTube or TikTok have specific buttons to flag the content for review. When you use these tools, the platform's 'trust and safety' team looks at the report to see if it breaks their community guidelines. If it does, they might remove the content, delete the account, or block the person who posted it.

Before you report something, it is a good idea to take a screenshot. A screenshot is a picture of what is on your screen at that exact moment. This provides evidence of what happened, which is very helpful for the people investigating the report. However, you should never try to handle serious situations alone. Whether you are reporting an instance of Cyberbullying, a scary message from a stranger, or a situation involving Online predation, the most important step is to tell a trusted adult, such as a parent, a teacher, or a school Safeguarding Lead. They can help you go through the reporting process correctly and ensure you stay safe.

Office of Special Investigations gives insight to parents about internet safety for children (7655879).jpg

A worked example, step by step

Scenario: You are watching a video on a popular streaming site. In the comments section, someone is posting very rude and hurtful things about other people. You feel that this is making the comment section a mean place.

Solution:

Identify the problem: The comments are hurtful and break the rules of being a good digital citizen.
Gather evidence: Take a screenshot of the mean comments so you can show what was said.
Use the tool: Look for the 'Report' or 'Flag' button near the comments and select the option that best describes the problem (such as 'Harassment').
Inform an adult: Show the screenshot to a parent or a teacher and explain why you felt it was important to report it.

Try it yourself

Maya is using a messaging app to talk to a group of friends. Suddenly, one person in the group sends a message that looks like a scam, asking everyone to click a link and enter their home addresses to win a free prize. What steps should Maya take to handle this safely?

Solution and explanation:

Do not click the link or provide any personal information.
Take a screenshot of the message as evidence of the scam.
Use the app's 'Report' tool to flag the message as a scam or spam.
Tell a trusted adult, like a parent or a teacher, about the message.

Knowing Who to Tell and How to Contact Help

When you are using the internet, playing online games, or chatting with your friends, it is very important to know what to do if something feels wrong. You might see something scary, someone might be mean to you, or a stranger might try to talk to you in a way that makes you feel uncomfortable. In these moments, the most important rule is to never keep a problem a secret. You should always speak to a trusted adult as soon as possible. A trusted adult is someone you know and trust who can help keep you safe. This could be your parents, your guardians, a teacher, a school nurse, or even a sports coach. These are the people you should turn to first. They are there to listen to you and help you figure out what to do next. If you see someone being a bully, receive a mean message, or if a stranger asks for your private information, tell an adult right away. They can help you block the person or report the behavior safely. Schools are also very important places for staying safe online. Most schools have a safeguarding lead or a specific staff member whose job is to make sure students are safe. You can also talk to your classroom teacher or the school's IT support team if you notice a website that seems broken, weird, or unsafe. Many schools also have a reporting box or a digital form where you can share your concerns if you feel a bit shy about speaking up in front of the class. In some cases, the situation might be very serious. For bigger problems, there are official organizations that offer great advice. Groups like Childnet and Internet Matters provide tools and information for children to stay safe online. If there is ever an immediate danger or a threat of harm, adults can contact the police or specialist agencies. Remember, your safety is the most important thing, and there are always many people who want to help you.

Cyberbullying Prevention Seminar in Acireale (9441994).jpg

A worked example, step by step

Scenario: You are playing a popular online game on your tablet. A player you do not know sends you a private message saying: "You are really good at this game! Do you want to be my friend on a different app? I can send you free items if you tell me your phone number."

Step 1: Identify the red flag. The person is a stranger asking for private information (phone number) and offering "free items" as a bribe. This is a common trick used by online predators to gain trust.

Step 2: Immediate action. Do not reply to the message and do not give out your phone number. It is best to stop the conversation immediately.

Step 3: Identify the trusted adult. Tell your parent, guardian, or an older sibling who is nearby.

Step 4: Report the incident. Show the message to the adult. They can help you block the user in the game and report their account to the game's moderators so they cannot bother other children.

Try it yourself

Imagine you are using a school computer to do research for a project. Suddenly, a website pops up that looks like a famous social media site, but it asks you to enter your login details to "verify your age." A friend tells you that you can just do it quickly so you can keep working. What should you do? List the person you would tell and explain what you would say to them.

Solution and explanation: Action: You should not enter any information into the pop-up. You should close the window if possible.

Trusted Adult: Tell your teacher or the school's IT support person.

What to say: "I was doing my research and a strange pop-up appeared asking for my login details. I think it might be a fake website trying to steal my information, so I wanted to show you before I clicked anything."

Interactive Tasks

Quiz: Test Your Knowledge

What does it mean to be a good Digital Citizen? (Using technology in a way that is helpful, honest, and respectful to others) (!Only using computers to play games) (!Sharing all your private information with everyone) (!Ignoring other people when you are online)

What is one rule of good Netiquette? (Avoiding the use of all capital letters) (!Shouting at people in game chats) (!Using mean language to upset others) (!Keeping secrets from your parents)

What is a Digital Footprint? (A trail of information left behind every time you post, like, or share something online) (!A special password for your computer) (!A physical mark left on a keyboard) (!A list of all the apps you have downloaded)

Which of these is considered private information? (Your home address) (!Your favourite colour) (!The name of a game you like) (!The type of fruit you enjoy)

What is the term for sharing someone's private information online without their permission? (Doxxing) (!Netiquette) (!Flaming) (!Trolling)

What is cyberbullying? (Using digital devices to repeatedly be mean, threaten, or leave someone out on purpose) (!Playing a game with a friend) (!Taking a screenshot of a funny cat) (!Sending a polite thank you message)

What is a "red flag" in an online conversation? (A warning sign that someone might be trying to trick you or make you feel uncomfortable) (!A button used to report a problem) (!A special item you win in a game) (!A green light on your computer)

What is a screenshot? (A picture of what is on your screen at that exact moment) (!A type of online game) (!A secret password) (!A video of your friends)

Who is a trusted adult? (Someone you know and trust, like a parent, teacher, or guardian, who can help keep you safe) (!A stranger you met in a game chat) (!A character in a video game) (!A website that offers free gifts)

What should you do if you see something that makes you feel scared or uncomfortable online? (Stop talking to the person and tell a trusted adult immediately) (!Keep it a secret from your parents) (!Try to solve the problem all by yourself) (!Ignore it and keep playing)

Memory Game

Netiquette	Unwritten rules that help everyone get along in digital spaces.
Digital Footprint	The permanent trail of information you leave behind online.
Cyberbullying	Repeatedly using devices to be mean or threaten someone.
Doxxing	Sharing someone's private information online without permission.
Trusted Adult	A person you know who can help keep you safe.

Drag and Drop

Match the correct terms.	Explanation
Report Button	Tool used to highlight content that breaks rules.
Screenshot	Capture a picture of what is on your screen.
Red Flag	A warning sign of a potential danger online.
Private Info	Details like your home address or school.
Flaming	Using angry language to upset others online.

Crossword Puzzle

Netiquette	Rules for being polite online
Footprint	The trail of info you leave behind
Bullying	Repeatedly mean behavior to someone
Secret	Something you are told not to tell others
Report	Telling a platform about a problem
Stranger	Someone you do not know in real life

LearningApps

Cloze Text

Quiz answers explained

Being a good digital citizen means being a responsible member of the online community, just like being a good citizen in the physical world.
In netiquette, using all capital letters can look like shouting, which is considered impolite.
Every action you take online leaves a tiny, often permanent trail of data known as a digital footprint.
Private information is anything that can be used to find out where you live, who you are, or where you go.
Doxxing is a serious violation of privacy where someone's personal details are shared maliciously online.
Cyberbullying involves repeated harmful behaviour using technology, which can be just as hurtful as bullying in person.
Red flags are signals that a situation might be unsafe, such as a stranger asking you to keep a friendship a secret.
Taking a screenshot is helpful because it provides evidence of what happened when you report a problem.
Trusted adults are people in your real life who can support you and help you handle online safety issues.
The most important rule is to never keep a problem a secret; always seek help from a trusted adult.

Open Tasks

Easy

Task 1: Create a "Netiquette" poster for your school's gaming club. Your poster should list at least three rules for being kind in a game chat.
Task 2: Write a 3-sentence "Rules of Kindness" list for a new social media group. Each rule should explain how to treat others with respect.
Task 3: Make a "Digital Footprint" diary of 3 positive things you could share online today, such as a fact about a hobby or a school project.
Task 4: Draw a picture of a "Trusted Adult" and write down 3 specific ways they can help you if you see something scary or mean online.

Standard

Task 1: Write a "How-To" guide for younger students on how to take a screenshot and report a mean comment. Describe which buttons to look for on different apps.
Task 2: Create a role-play script between two students. One student receives a "secret" message from a stranger. Show how to identify the red flags and write a polite response to stop the conversation.
Task 3: Design a "Cyberbullying Awareness" flyer for your classroom. Explain the difference between a joke and bullying in simple words.
Task 4: Create a "Digital Safety Checklist" for families to look at before signing up for a new app. Include items like "Is this app for kids?" and "Who can see my posts?".

Advanced

Task 1: Plan a "Tech Talk" video presentation. Write a script that explains what "Doxxing" is and why sharing a home address or phone number is dangerous.
Task 2: Write an open letter to a game developer. Suggest a new "Report/Safety" feature that would make the game safer for children and protect them from mean players.
Task 3: Create a "Digital Citizen's Handbook." This should include sections on Netiquette, privacy, and a step-by-step guide on reporting concerns to school staff.
Task 4: Conduct a "Safety Audit" on a fictional social media profile. Identify 5 pieces of information that are safe to share and 5 that are not, and explain why for each.

Learning Check

Transfer task 1: What is a "Digital Footprint" and why is it important to think before you post?
Transfer task 2: Identify two "red flags" that might mean a stranger online is trying to trick you.
Transfer task 3: What is the difference between "Cyberbullying" and "Cyberstalking"?
Transfer task 4: If you see a suspicious link in a group chat, what 4 steps should you take?
Transfer task 5: Who are "Trusted Adults" and where can you find them in a school setting?

Learning check: suggested solutions

A digital footprint is the trail of information you leave behind online, such as photos, likes, and comments. It is important because this trail can be permanent and can be seen by many people, potentially affecting how others see you in the future.
Red flags include a stranger asking you to keep your friendship a secret from your parents, or a stranger asking for private information like your school name or a photo in exchange for "free" items or gifts.
Cyberbullying is the repeated use of digital devices to be mean or intimidate someone. Cyberstalking is a more serious crime that involves monitoring, threats, or gathering private information to harass someone offline.
1. Do not click the link. 2. Take a screenshot of the message. 3. Use the app's report tool to flag the scam. 4. Tell a trusted adult immediately.
Trusted adults are people you know and trust to keep you safe, such as parents or guardians. In a school, this includes your teacher, the school nurse, or a specific Safeguarding Lead.

Learning evidence

Students will demonstrate an understanding of digital citizenship by identifying acceptable online behaviors, recognizing common risks (phishing, grooming, doxxing), and correctly describing a multi-step reporting process involving evidence gathering (screenshots) and contacting trusted adults.

OER and Wikipedia

Research and media sources

Internet safety – Wikipedia (en).

Office of Special Investigations gives insight to parents about internet safety for children (7655878).jpg – U.S. Air Force 86AW by Senior Airman Isaac Olivera, Public domain.

Office of Special Investigations gives insight to parents about internet safety for children (7655879).jpg – U.S. Air Force 86AW by Senior Airman Isaac Olivera, Public domain.

Cyberbullying Prevention Seminar in Acireale (9441994).jpg – U.S. Navy photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Sebastian Portieleslopez, Public domain.

Online Privacy for Kids - Internet Safety and Security for Kids – Smile and Learn - English, Embedded YouTube video; rights remain with the respective creator.