2a+ML+Topics


 * Kindergarten – Grade 2** students will acquire a basic understanding of:
 * ► how computers are networked
 * ► the open, public nature of online communications;
 * ► basic online skills to protect privacy and safety; working online only with adult supervision
 * ► the differences between real-life friendships and branded characters on Web sites who are virtual friends.
 * ► beginner search strategies using pre-selected websites;


 * Grade 3** Review and reinforce the lessons already learned, and introduce:
 * ► beginner search strategies and kids' search engines such as Ask Kids and KidsClick!;
 * ► the importance of protecting personal identity and information;
 * ► e-mailing e-pals in a safe online environment;
 * ► basic online marketing strategies and the differences between commercial playgrounds and non-commercial sites for kids;
 * ► being responsible online; and
 * ► elements of Web design.


 * Grades 4 – 5** : Student online explorations increase, and students need guidance about Internet safety and protection of privacy. They also need to begin thinking about good citizenship and responsible Internet use. Introduce
 * ► Beginning strategies for conducting effective, self-directed online research;
 * ► strategies for determining the authorship and authority of online information;
 * ► online environments that present a range of different opinions;
 * ► issues connected with file-sharing such as copyright infringement, viruses, spyware and hacking;
 * ► the concept of anonymity as it relates to Web activities and online acquaintances;
 * ► responsibility and citizenship on the Internet;
 * ► acceptable Internet use in the classroom;
 * ► passive and aggressive data collection methods (how the Internet can use us);
 * ► strategies to minimize exposure to adult or offensive Web sites.


 * Grades 6-7** Students need continued guidance regarding Internet safety and protection of privacy, good citizenship and responsible Internet use. Given their increasing use of the Internet to connect with people they know personally and with people they have never met, introduce:
 * ► pros and cons of online anonymity
 * ► the “culture of meanness” on the Web
 * ► strategies to minimize exposure to adult Web sites
 * ► Web sites that talk about healthy sexuality
 * ► predators and their methods
 * ► responsibility that comes with freedom of expression