Topic of the Week 3: Facebook Etiquette
People across the globe are now spending part of their time in online discussions and blogs. In fact, you are doing it right now. While the Internet provides opportunities for thoughtful discourse, many people may be revealing way too much about themselves online, things that perhaps should remain private. Who knows what will happen years from now when someone with ulterior motives runs a Google check and finds information and photos that can be used for blackmail or to destroy a person's reputation? For example, good-luck to anyone who wants a job as a teacher in the future if an Internet search reveals photos of the individual participating in unseemly activities or spouting profanity - even years before. (Some people might consider this unfair, but why should a school system take a chance on someone like this when there are so many other applicants who have exhibited better judgment?)
Based on what you have seen from your own peers, what mistakes do you think some teenagers are making online and what advice would you give them to remain safe now and in the future? Please respond to this topic in approximately 300 words by midnight on Friday, October 16. Return later and respond to the comments of at least one other person in approximately 100 words by noon on Sunday, October 18.
When you give examples to illustrate your points, DO NOT CITE STUDENT NAMES!
Just for the record, a recent Time essay and video made me start thinking about this topic. Preview both before you begin writing.
25 Things I Didn't Want to Know About You
http://www.time.com/time/arts/article/0,8599,1877187,00.html
How Not to be Hated on Facebook
http://www.time.com/time/arts/article/0,8599,1892800,00.html
Page down to view the video.
Taken from "Parrott AP English Language." Mon. 12 Oct. 2009.
