Internet & Friendships Lesson Plan

This lesson plan for Key Stage 1 students explores the complex topic of the internet's impact on friendships. The session begins with a whole class review of feedback from the previous week's topic, setting the stage for a focused discussion. The lesson kicks off with a brief starter activity where students pair up to talk about the activities they enjoy with their friends and whether they engage in any of these activities online. This exercise aims to get the children thinking about the intersection of friendships and the digital world.

As the lesson unfolds, the class delves into the core question: "Is the internet bad for friendships?" Through a series of interactive exercises, students examine the qualities that define good friendships and consider how the internet might enhance or detract from these relationships. They participate in activities that require them to stand up or sit down and use thumbs up or down gestures to express their views on various scenarios where the internet has played a role in friendships. The lesson encourages pupils to reflect on their own experiences and opinions by discussing different statements about the internet's influence on relationships. Finally, the class concludes with a vote, allowing students to weigh the arguments and make an informed decision on the topic. Support materials for students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and home learning opportunities are also provided to ensure an inclusive and comprehensive educational experience.