Cellphone+Etiquette+Instructions

Cell phone Interruptions

Focus Questions
 * 1) 1. Should people be able to use cell phones in crowded places?
 * 2) 2. Is it better to text or to talk in a crowded room?

Additional Questions: 1. Should cell phones be banned in certain places? 2. Should only certain people be able to leave cell phones on (e.g., doctor, emergency worker, person with sick relative)? 3. Should texting be banned while driving? 4. Should students be allowed to text in class?

Lesson Goals/Objectives: To decide where cell conversations are appropriate. To determine when texting is inappropriate and sometimes considered rude behavior.

Tools/Resources Needed: Cell Phone Etiquette: Students will write their version.

Activity Description: Students will create skits and perform for class. 1. Have students have a “mock” cell phone conversation where they are being loud talking about inappropriate topics. 2. When completed, have students in the class describe what they heard. Have them explain how the exchange made them feel. 3. Have the participants discuss their feelings as they spoke in front of the class. Ask if they have any problems having a cell conversation in other places (church, movie theater, etc.) 4. Have students create a scenario where another person’s texting was distracting or made them feel uncomfortable.

Lesson Extension Ideas/Activities: Have the class discuss cell phone issues with their friends. Have them come back to class and share ideas how they and their friends think that cell phones should be used in schools and in public.

Teaching Tips: 1. Have students focus on positive ways that will help cell phone users. When having concern with a cell phone user explain why their cell phone usage is bothering you. 2. Coach students on how and where cell phone usage is appropriate. Have the students keep a journal on times they use the cell phone and have them reflect on why it may have been an issue in particular situations. 3. Supply students with methods of dealing with inappropriate technology use. Yelling or hushing cell phone users that are annoying does not provide a solution to the issue. 4. Be a good technology role model for the students. If the adult is using the cell phone inappropriately, the students will often follow the example.

Resources: [|__http://www.digitalcitizenship.net/Resources.html__]