INTRODUCTION

Kids in Middle School often spend more time on the Internet than younger students. This site has been developed to help you learn to safely use three tools on the Internet: Social Networking sites, Instant Messaging (IM) and Email.

"Cool Tools for Middle School" is a curriculum web that will introduce you to the safety issues surrounding these three tools. After completing this Webquest, you will be able to use technology in a more productive manner and avoid the many risks you might encounter from being uninformed. You will be equipped to make smart decisions about using the technology tools this Webquest focuses on.

PROCESS

After receiving an introduction to Internet safety, you will work through three exercises which will help you learn the benefits and risks of using Social Networking, Email and IM. At the end, you will work with others on a final activity to demonstrate what you've learned.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

Upon completion of this Webquest, you will:

1. Understand the definition of safety on the Internet and how to avoid dangerous, inappropriate or unlawful online behavior.
2. Identify when it is and when it is not appropriate to share personal information on-line.
3. Learn to utilize IM for effective social interaction and collaboration with you classmates on homework.
4. Understand the risks of peer-to-peer sharing and the potential for damage to your computer.
5. Understand the benefits of using Email as well as the risk of abuse and potential for you personal privacy to be compromised.

SKILLS

To participate in this Webquest, you will need to possess the following skills:

1. Type in correctly formatted URL
2. Ability to create a PowerPoint Presentation
3. Use a mouse and buttons or hypertext to navigate through a series of linked pages
4. Select an appropriate search term and enter into Yahooligans or similar  search engine appropriate for middle school students
5. Take notes about a site and correctly cite the source of your information

Your teacher may also provide support to you as you work through these activities. 

Note: this site has been designed for you to proceed through the activities in a specific order. You'll see a link at the bottom of each page taking you to the next activity.


Now, please move on to the Internet Safety section