Welcome the class and introduce today’s lesson. Explain that by the end of this slide deck, students will know how to spot rumors and understand why it matters. Use the #4A90E2 color for backgrounds.

Define gossip and rumors. Ask students to share quick examples in chat or out loud. Use sentence starters like “I heard that…” or “Someone said that…”

Discuss why rumors catch on quickly. Prompt: “Why do you think people share rumors?”

Highlight emotional consequences. Encourage empathy by asking students how they would feel if a rumor spread about them.

Introduce the three quick checks. Model with a sample statement, e.g., “Did you hear the teacher is moving schools?”.

Display three sample statements on the board (e.g., “Alex got detention for skipping class”). Invite volunteers to decide “Rumor or Fact?” and explain why.

Prepare students for the next segment on stopping rumors using positive communication strategies.