Social media is like a tug of war

Engaging with social media can be like a tug of war, with many arguments for and against its use. By considering each side of an argument, students will have the skills to make informed online decisions.

Year Level

7-10

Duration

5 minutes

Type

  • In class activity
  • Online learning

SEL Competencies

  • Self-awareness
  • Social awareness

Learning Intention

Students will understand the different perspectives of topical social media concepts and trends.

Key Outcomes

By the end of the lesson, students will be able to:

  • understand the different perspectives on social media usage.
Activity 01

Instructions 5 min

  1. As a class or individually, visually ask students to draw a line, such as on the whiteboard or in individual workbooks.
  2. Provide students with a statement and ask them to think of factors that ‘tug’ at each side of the argument.
  3. Students write these on Post-It notes and place them at either end of the line.
  4. Ask students to generate ‘What if's’: questions, issues, factors or concerns that might need to be explored further. Write and post these above the line.
  5. Ask students to reflect on the activity:
    • Do they still feel the same way about it as when they started?
    • Have they changed their opinion?

Suggested statements:

  • Social media is important for friendships.
  • Social media is bad for society.
  • Social media causes more harm than good.
  • Social media has been unfairly blamed for various social problems.