Lessons2

=**Internet Citizenship** = ==**Avoid Hurting People** == Never insult someone. This hurts just as much on-line as it does in person. When posted on-line, it reflects badly on you, your school and your country. If someone insults you, talk to your teacher about it before responding. The “insult” may really be a case of somebody using the wrong word, or a word that means something else in their culture or dialect.

The other kids are just as cool as you are. If you think their clothes look strange, remember that your clothes look funny to them, too. Or maybe it's your haircut.

CAPITAL LETTERS in an online situation means you are shouting! So use them very rarely, as people might be offended (like you would be if someone shouted at you).

Cultural and Language Misunderstandings
 Misunderstandings are easy in online situations, especially when you are communicating with people who don't speak English as their first language. To avoid misunderstandings, try to write as simply and clearly as possible.

 Avoid slang. Students who speak other languages don’t usually understand it, because they haven’t learned it in school.

 If a non-native English speaker makes a mistake and you don’t understand, just ask them what they meant. Or use the word properly when you respond, so that they can learn from you. Never, ever make fun of someone’s ability to speak or write English. They may lose their confidence and never write again. On the other hand, remember that if someone uses a word that offends you, it may not be an offensive word in their local slang. Ask them what they meant.

 Jokes are easily misunderstood in online situations because the reader can't see your face to know whether you are joking, so avoid them at first. For the same reason, avoid sarcasm altogether.