Internet safety : Definition, Safe internet uses and Online treats
Lesson Plan: Internet Safety for Primary 5
Subject: Information Technology (IT)
Class: Primary 5
Term: Second Term
Week: Week 9
Age: 10–11 years
Topic: Internet Safety
Sub-Topic: Safe Internet Use, Online Threats, Online Safety Measures
Duration: 40 minutes
Behavioral Objectives
By the end of the lesson, pupils will be able to:
- Define internet safety.
- Outline ways of using the internet safely.
- Understand and define online threats.
- Identify and explain types of online threats.
- Understand and practice basic online safety measures.
Keywords
- Internet Safety
- Online Threats
- Cybersecurity
- Malware
- Phishing
- Password Protection
- Anti-virus
Set Induction
The teacher will ask the students if they have ever heard of the term “online threats” or “cybersecurity.” The teacher can also ask if anyone has ever experienced something suspicious online and engage students by sharing common internet safety concerns, such as protecting personal information and encountering scams.
Entry Behavior
Before starting the lesson, students should be familiar with the basics of using the internet. This includes accessing websites and using devices such as computers, smartphones, and tablets.
Learning Resources and Materials
- Computer or laptop for each student
- Wall charts or posters illustrating internet safety tips
- Audio-Visual tools such as a projector to display videos
- Internet access for online research or demonstration
- Access to educational websites (e.g., Google, online safety platforms)
- Interactive whiteboard or traditional chalkboard
- Internet Safety Handouts and Worksheets
Building Background/Connection to Prior Knowledge
The students should already be aware of how to use basic online tools like searching the internet, sending emails, and accessing social media platforms. This lesson will build on that knowledge by teaching them how to stay safe while online.
Embedded Core Skills
- Critical Thinking: Assessing online safety and identifying risks.
- Collaboration and Communication: Working together to identify safe and unsafe online behaviors.
- Personal Development: Understanding the importance of protecting personal information.
- Digital Literacy: Navigating the internet safely and effectively.
Instructional Materials
- PowerPoint slides on internet safety
- Infographics on online threats
- Projector for visual aids
- Printed handouts with scenarios for group work
Content
What is Internet Safety?
- Definition: Internet safety, also known as online safety or cyber safety, refers to the practice of being aware of potential dangers on the internet and protecting personal information from being stolen or misused. This includes being aware of online threats like viruses, scams, and hacking.
- Purpose: To ensure users’ personal data, privacy, and online activity are safe from malicious activity.
Examples of Safe Internet Use:
- Using Strong Passwords: Always create complex and unique passwords for different accounts.
- Using Secure Websites: Ensure websites start with “https” and are verified before sharing personal information.
- Keeping Personal Information Private: Never share sensitive data like phone numbers, addresses, or bank details online.
- Avoiding Public Wi-Fi for Sensitive Tasks: Do not use public Wi-Fi to access sensitive accounts or conduct financial transactions.
- Reporting Suspicious Activity: If you encounter suspicious emails or websites, report them immediately.
What Are Online Threats?
- Definition: Online threats, also known as cyber threats, refer to any danger that occurs on the internet, potentially leading to harm such as data theft, malware infection, or system damage.
Examples of Online Threats:
- Viruses: Malicious software designed to damage or disrupt systems.
- Phishing: Fraudulent emails or websites that attempt to trick you into providing personal information.
- Malware: Software specifically designed to harm or exploit any device or network.
- Hacking: Unauthorized access to your computer or accounts by a third party.
- Identity Theft: Fraudulent use of someone’s personal data for malicious purposes, often financial.
Online Safety Measures:
- Strong Passwords: Creating passwords that are difficult for others to guess.
- Software Updates: Regularly updating software and devices to protect against newly discovered threats.
- Anti-virus Software: Using software to detect and remove harmful malware.
- Avoiding Clicking on Suspicious Links: Being careful with email attachments and pop-up advertisements.
- Reporting Suspicious Activity: Always report suspicious activities such as unusual messages or websites.
Evaluation Questions (Fill-in-the-Blanks)
- Never give out personal information online, such as your full name, address, phone number, or __________ information.
a) financial
b) health
c) address
d) none of the above - Use strong and unique __________ for all of your accounts.
a) email addresses
b) passwords
c) usernames
d) phone numbers - Be careful of what you post online, as it can stay on the internet __________.
a) forever
b) for a week
c) for a day
d) temporarily - Be aware of __________ attempts, which are when scammers try to trick you into giving them personal information or money.
a) phishing
b) selling
c) hacking
d) spam - Use __________ settings on social media and other online accounts to control who can see your information.
a) privacy
b) friend
c) email
d) general - Keep your software and __________ systems up to date to protect against security vulnerabilities.
a) operating
b) computer
c) email
d) shopping - Be cautious when clicking on __________ or downloading attachments, especially from unknown sources.
a) advertisements
b) links
c) friends
d) profiles - Use __________ and anti-malware software to protect your computer from malware and other online threats.
a) VPN
b) firewalls
c) anti-virus
d) social media - Don’t overshare on social media or online, as it can make you vulnerable to __________, stalking, or identity theft.
a) love
b) cyberbullying
c) friends
d) games - Be aware of online predators and never arrange to meet someone you’ve met online in __________.
a) real life
b) a group
c) a park
d) person
Class Activity Discussion (15 FAQs with Answers)
- What is the most important thing to do to stay safe online?
- Use strong and unique passwords for each of your accounts.
- Why is it important to use strong passwords?
- Strong passwords make it difficult for hackers to gain access to your personal accounts.
- What should you do if you receive a suspicious email asking for your personal information?
- Never reply to it. Mark it as spam or report it.
- What is phishing?
- Phishing is a scam where fraudsters pretend to be legitimate sources to steal your personal information.
- How can you tell if a website is safe?
- Check if the website uses “https” in the URL and has a secure padlock symbol.
- What should you do if you think your account has been hacked?
- Change your password immediately and report the incident.
- What is malware?
- Malware is software designed to harm your computer or steal your data.
- How can you protect yourself from malware?
- Use anti-virus software and avoid clicking on unknown links.
- Why should you avoid public Wi-Fi for sensitive tasks?
- Public Wi-Fi can be insecure and expose your data to hackers.
- What is a virtual private network (VPN)?
- A VPN is a tool that encrypts your internet connection, making it safer to browse online.
- Why is it important to keep your software updated?
- Updates fix security vulnerabilities and protect your devices from new threats.
- What should you do if you see a suspicious website?
- Avoid interacting with it, and report it if necessary.
- How can you prevent identity theft online?
- Protect your personal information and only share it with trusted sites.
- What is the danger of oversharing on social media?
- It makes you vulnerable to cyberbullying, identity theft, and other online dangers.
- What is the role of parental controls in online safety?
- Parental controls help protect children from inappropriate content and online predators.
Teacher’s Activities
- Begin by introducing the topic of internet safety.
- Deliver a presentation on different online threats and safety measures.
- Lead the class discussion, asking for student contributions and providing corrections as needed.
- Provide scenarios for group activities and ask students to identify threats.
- Monitor students during independent activities and provide support when necessary.
Learners’ Activities
- Engage in class discussion by answering questions and contributing ideas.
- Work in groups to discuss online safety measures and report their findings.
- Participate in individual research to learn about online threats and safety.
Evaluation Questions (Short Answer)
- Define internet safety in your own words.
- List three examples of online threats.
- What are some common signs of phishing?
- Why is it important to use different passwords for different accounts?
- What is malware, and how can it affect your computer?
- Explain the role of anti-virus software.
- What should you do if you suspect a website is not secure?
- How can you protect your privacy on social media?
- What is a strong password made of? Give an example.
- Why should you avoid clicking on pop-up ads?
Conclusion
Reiterate the importance of staying safe online, and emphasize that students should always be aware of online threats and take necessary precautions to protect their personal information and devices.