SHOW students the “Henry’s Story – Creating Online Identities” video and
discuss the following questions.  Alternative Video Link

ASK: What do you think motivates Henry to hide his age?

Possible Responses:
Henry wants to fits into the community and not be judged by his age. He doesn’t want to have to “prove” himself.

ASK: What were the consequences of Henry hiding his age?

Possible Responses:
ASK: What motivates people to present themselves differently online than in person?
Possible Responses:
Students should name different intentions that people might have for taking on an
alternative identity, or for acting anonymously, online. People may do it to protect
themselves, or simply to have fun. They also may do it to deceive others.

ASK: What consequences — positive or negative — might people experience if they present themselves differently online?

Possible Responses:
On the positive side, people may feel freer to be themselves and share their thoughts, or explore interests that they might not explore in real life. On the downside, they may
get into uncomfortable situations pretending to be someone else. Or people may discover that they are lying about their true identity.

ASK: How can presenting oneself differently online impact other people?
Possible Responses:
Some people who take on a different identity online may feel freer to say hurtful
comments that they wouldn’t say in person, especially if they are acting anonymously. People may also lie or exaggerate, which can create a climate of mean spiritedness or
distrust online.