Lesson Plan

Dos and Don'ts of Texting

Students will learn key do’s and don’ts of texting and group chats by analyzing scenarios and engaging in role-play, then demonstrate understanding through discussion and an exit ticket.

Building digital communication skills—tone, privacy, and respect—helps 5th graders navigate real-life texting and group chats safely, politely, and confidently.

Audience

Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Teacher Preparation

10 minutes

Step 1

Introduction

5 minutes

Step 2

Scenario Analysis

10 minutes

Step 3

Role-Play Activity

10 minutes

Step 4

Debrief & Assessment

5 minutes

Slide Deck

Texting Smart: Do’s and Don’ts of Texting

Welcome students and introduce today’s topic. Say: “Today we’re going to learn how to text smart—using tone, respect, and privacy to communicate safely.”

Why Tone, Privacy, & Respect Matter

Explain why digital communication skills matter. Emphasize that tone can be misunderstood, privacy keeps us safe, and respect helps us build good relationships.

Key Do’s and Don’ts Poster

Display the [Do's and Don'ts Poster](#dos-donts-poster) on the board or projector. Walk through each bullet: What makes this a ‘Do’ or a ‘Don’t’ in texting?

Scenario Analysis

Explain the Scenario Analysis activity. Hand out the [Texting Scenarios Handout](#texting-scenarios-handout). Model the first scenario with the class: identify Do or Don’t.

Role-Play Activity

Introduce roles: “Texter,” “Responder,” and “Observer.” Remind observers to watch for tone and respect. Circulate as groups practice.

Exit Ticket: Texting Reflection

Wrap up the lesson by leading a brief discussion: “What’s one new thing you’ll remember about texting smart?” Then distribute the exit ticket.

Lesson Plan

Dos and Don'ts of Texting

Audience

Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Teacher Preparation

Step 1

Introduction

Step 2

Scenario Analysis

Step 3

Role-Play Activity

Step 4

Debrief & Assessment

Slide Deck

Texting Smart: Do’s and Don’ts of Texting

Why Tone, Privacy, & Respect Matter

Key Do’s and Don’ts Poster

Scenario Analysis

Role-Play Activity

Exit Ticket: Texting Reflection

Worksheet

Activity

Cool Down

Texting Smart

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