Cyberbullying Curriculum for Middle Schools
Cyberbullying is a growing problem. Unchecked, cyberbullying can be devastating to a middle school teen. The curriculum for this course will address a current definition of cyberbullying, its impacts and consequences, what a victim can do and how other students can help stop cyberbullying with compassion in one voice.
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What is Cyberbullying?
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Although it may seem faceless, cyberbulling hurts real people. To begin this course, instructors will ask each of the students to write a few paragraphs on their thoughts and a definition of a cyberbully. The students' definitions will be the subject of an interactive classroom discussion.
After the discussion, the instructor will present a clear and thorough explanation of cyberbullying based on current research and case study. This will provide an in-depth introduction for this curriculum.
Impacts and Consequences
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Cyberbullying has consequences. The next portion of the curriculum will center on the impacts and consequences of cyberbullying.
Students will be asked to research a recent cyberbullying case and prepare a report on it. The report should include the setting and circumstances of the incident, the specifics of the bullying, the impact on the victim and the resulting consequences for both the victim and the perpetrators.
The instructor will provide additional case study information on impact and consequences to confirm the facts for the students.
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What To Do If Cyberbullied
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Cyberbully victims should always ask for help. Many victims of cyberbullying suffer in silence and are either afraid of their attackers or ashamed that they have been singled out for the abuse. This portion of study will address what victims can do to get help.
Students will be asked to give an oral presentation on how they would feel if they were a victim and what course of action they believe is available to them.
Instructors will follow up with clear instructions on how to get help at home and school and from external resources.
Standing Up for Others and Getting Help
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The world needs to show compassion to help stop cyberbullying. Many victims are targeted because the attackers believe they are weak and defenseless. This makes them appear to be an easy target.
The final portion of this course is designed to encourage students to exhibit understanding while offering strength and compassion to victims of cyberbullying. Students will be asked to present different ways they can stand up for someone being targeted.
The instructor will conclude with a suggested program for students to organize that will foster an atmosphere of unity among students with a zero tolerance for cyberbullying.
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References
Resources
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