Today, we’re diving into an important topic that touches on our digital lives and personal relationships. My name is Courtney Pentland, and I’m the school librarian at Burke High School. I work with students from grades 9 to 12, and I’m here to guide you through this sensitive subject with maturity and leadership.
Our focus today is on sexting, a significant issue for teenagers as they navigate digital communication. Sexting involves sending photos or videos of a sexual nature. While this isn’t a typical English class topic, it does connect with English language arts standards by encouraging you to think critically and express your thoughts clearly.
You’ll be using your iPads and the Screen Chomp app to explore how digital communication can benefit relationships. Think about what you like about texting and jot down your thoughts. Texting is convenient, but it also has its downsides. By writing and sharing your answers, you can participate without feeling pressured to speak out loud.
We’ll watch a video about a young woman who sent a photo to her ex-boyfriend and discuss the consequences of that decision. This video highlights the serious implications of sexting, including personal and social consequences like feelings of humiliation and the impact on school life.
After the video, we’ll discuss how to handle situations in relationships. Consider a scenario with two teenagers, Shayla and Jacob, who have been dating for a month and are having a flirty conversation. What should Shayla do if Jacob asks her to send a revealing photo?
As you think about this, remember the importance of making informed decisions. Once a picture is sent, control over it is lost, and it’s crucial to understand the potential consequences. This discussion will help you consider the implications of your actions in digital communication.
By the end of this lesson, you’ll have a better understanding of sexting and its impact on relationships. You’ll also learn how to make thoughtful decisions when it comes to digital communication. Let’s use this opportunity to grow and learn together in a safe and supportive environment.
Imagine you’re Shayla or Jacob from the scenario discussed in the article. Pair up with a classmate and role-play a conversation where you navigate the request for a revealing photo. Focus on expressing your feelings and making informed decisions. This will help you practice communication skills and understand the importance of consent and boundaries.
Divide into two groups and debate the pros and cons of digital communication in relationships. One group will argue for the benefits, while the other will discuss the potential risks, including sexting. This activity will enhance your critical thinking and public speaking skills.
Create a short video or digital poster using the Screen Chomp app that illustrates the consequences of sexting. Use your creativity to convey the message effectively. This project will allow you to express your understanding of the topic in a creative way.
Write a journal entry reflecting on what you’ve learned about sexting and digital communication. Consider how this knowledge might influence your future decisions. This activity encourages personal reflection and helps solidify your understanding of the topic.
Participate in a group discussion where you can ask questions and share your thoughts about sexting and digital communication. This is a safe space to express any concerns or insights you have. Engaging in this dialogue will help you learn from your peers and gain different perspectives.
Here’s a sanitized version of the provided transcript:
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Today’s lesson focuses on an important topic related to our digital lives, specifically discussing aspects that may occur outside of school in your personal relationships. My name is Courtney Pentland, and I am the school librarian at Burke High School, working with students in grades 9 through 12. The topic we are discussing today is sensitive, so I ask that you use your maturity and leadership skills to keep everything school-appropriate.
Today’s lesson centers on the concept of sexting, which is significant for teenagers as they navigate decisions regarding digital communication. You will be using your iPads today, specifically the Screen Chomp app, to answer some questions that will lead to group discussions. Please write down one way that digital communication can benefit relationships, and consider what you like about texting.
While texting is convenient, there are also drawbacks to consider. I find that allowing students to write their answers down and share them—either on a whiteboard or through their iPads—encourages participation without the pressure of speaking out loud. This method provides everyone a chance to communicate on a topic that might be uncomfortable.
To clarify, sexting refers to sending photos or videos of a sexual nature. Although this lesson is not taught in an English classroom, it does align with English language arts standards. We encourage students to jot down relevant information and put vocabulary words into their own terms, which helps them process and recall the information better.
We will watch a video about a young woman who made the choice to send a photo to an ex-boyfriend, and we will discuss the consequences of that decision. The video highlights the serious implications of sexting, including personal and social consequences that many teenagers may already be aware of, such as feelings of humiliation and the potential impact on their school life.
After the video, we will discuss how to handle situations that may arise in relationships. For example, we will explore a scenario involving two teenagers, Shayla and Jacob, who have been dating for a month and are engaging in flirty conversation. We will consider how Shayla might respond if Jacob asks her to send a revealing photo.
As we discuss this, think about the implications of sending such images and the importance of making informed decisions. Once a picture is sent, control over it is lost, and it is crucial to understand the potential consequences.
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This version maintains the essence of the original transcript while removing sensitive language and ensuring appropriateness for the intended audience.
Sexting – The act of sending sexually explicit messages or images, primarily between mobile phones. – Many schools educate students about the risks and consequences of sexting to promote safer online behavior.
Communication – The process of exchanging information or expressing thoughts and feelings through speaking, writing, or other mediums. – Effective communication is essential for maintaining healthy relationships and resolving conflicts.
Relationships – The way in which two or more people are connected, or the state of being connected. – Building strong relationships with friends and family can provide support and improve mental health.
Decisions – Choices made after considering different options and their potential outcomes. – Making informed decisions about health can lead to better physical and mental well-being.
Digital – Relating to technology or electronic devices that use binary code to store and process data. – Digital tools can enhance communication but also require responsible use to avoid negative impacts.
Consequences – The results or effects of an action or decision, which can be positive or negative. – Understanding the consequences of unhealthy habits can motivate teenagers to make better lifestyle choices.
Feelings – Emotional states or reactions that can influence thoughts and behavior. – Expressing feelings openly can help teenagers manage stress and improve their emotional health.
Teenagers – Individuals aged between 13 and 19 years, often experiencing significant physical and emotional changes. – Teenagers face unique challenges that require guidance and support from adults.
Texting – The act of sending written messages via mobile phones. – Texting can be a quick and convenient way for teenagers to stay in touch with friends and family.
Implications – The possible effects or outcomes of an action or decision. – Before posting online, consider the implications for your privacy and reputation.
