Elementary Library

Case Study 1: Lily and the Online Game

Story: Lily enjoys an online animal rescue game where players can team up. One afternoon, a player named “StarFriend77” asks to join her team. Lily doesn’t recognize the name, but the player is helpful during the game. Later, StarFriend77 sends Lily a message saying, “You’re really fun to play with! What city do you live in? Maybe we go to the same school!” Lily types back, “I live near a big zoo!” but doesn’t mention anything else. She tells her older sister about the message, who helps her block the player.

Discussion Questions:

• Did Lily make any safe choices? • Was there anything she should have done differently? • What would you do if a stranger online asks you questions?

Case Study 2: Jack’s Video Challenge

Story: Jack makes a cool science experiment video and wants to show it off. He checks with his mom, and she says he can post it on the class website. A few classmates say they like it, and one asks him to post more on a public site. Jack decides to post a second video on a site anyone can see—but he only uses his first name and doesn’t show his face. Later, he gets a comment that says, “You’re funny. Want to be friends?” Jack isn’t sure what to do.

Discussion Questions:

• What part of Jack’s actions were smart or careful? • What risks might come with posting online, even without your face? • What should Jack do about the comment?