Taming social media use

Finding a balance when using social media can be challenging for students. By managing and reducing online activity when needed, students will have more free time and be more focused.

Year Level

7-10

Duration

5 minutes

Type

  • In class activity
  • Online learning

SEL Competencies

  • Self-awareness
  • Self-management
  • Responsible decision-making

Learning Intention

Students understand ways to manage social media use.

Key Outcomes

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

  • demonstrate an understanding of ways to manage their social media use.
Activity 01

Instructions 5 min

  1. Ask students to read ReachOut.com’s article ‘5 ways to tame your social media use’.
  2. Divide students into pairs and allocate one of the five tips:
    • Keep apps out of sight, so they’re out of mind
    • Use apps to help you limit your time on social media
    • Spend an hour a week on at least one screen-free hobby
    • Enjoy a phone-free dinner
    • Leave your phone outside the bedroom
  3. Students select ONE of the tips.
  4. Students creatively demonstrate how they could follow their chosen tip.
  5. Students might want to draw a picture, create a short video or poster, write a poem or short story, or may have other creative ideas.
  6. Invite students to share their creative demonstration with the class. These could be displayed within the classroom as a reminder.

Tip: It’s a good idea to start this activity by asking students if they use social media and, if so, how often.