Social media – Year 6 lesson plan

Developed with teachers, this lesson explores social media and the impact that online content can have on a person's wellbeing.

Please note: This lesson is not suitable for pupils younger than Year 6. It is also important to note that legally, nearly all forms of social media require users to be at least 13 years of age.

Curriculum

Supports the Relationships Education and Health Education statutory guidance

Mental health and wellbeing

• that mental wellbeing is a normal part of daily life, in the same way as physical health
• simple self-care techniques, including the importance of rest, time spent with friends and family and the benefits of hobbies and interests

Internet safety and harms

• that for most people the internet is an integral part of life and has many benefits
• about the benefits of rationing time spent online, the risks of excessive time spent on electronic devices and the impact of positive and negative content online on their own and others’ mental and physical wellbeing

Supports the PSHE curriculum

Core Theme 1 (Health and wellbeing)

• H2 - about the elements of a balanced, healthy lifestyle 
• H13 - about the benefits of the internet; the importance of balancing time online with other activities; strategies for managing time online 
• H16 - about strategies and behaviours that support mental health — including how good quality sleep, physical exercise/time outdoors, being involved in community groups, doing things for others, clubs, and activities, hobbies and spending time with family and friends can support mental health and wellbeing 
• H37 - reasons for following and complying with regulations and restrictions (including age restrictions); how they promote personal safety and wellbeing with reference to social media, television programmes, films, games and online gaming

Core Theme 3 (Living in the wider world)

• L11 - recognise ways in which the internet and social media can be used both positively and negatively

Learning objectives

After the lesson, pupils will be able to:​

• state and understand what ‘wellbeing’ and ‘social media' mean
• describe actions a person can take to look after their wellbeing with a balance of online and offline activities
• evaluate the positives and negatives of social media