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Standards Framework

for Tennessee Teen Social Media and Internet Safety Guidance

38

Standards in this Framework

Standard Description
A.1.A.1 Introduce all instructors and review respectful discussion and technology use expectations.
A.1.A.2 Discuss the purpose of the lesson—to help students develop safe, healthy, and responsible habits when using social media and the internet.
A.1.B.1 Define “social media” and “internet.”
A.1.B.2 Discuss the importance of balance between online and offline activities, such as sleep, exercise, and in-person interactions.
A.1.B.3 Introduce the concept of “digital free zones” and healthy screen-time limits.
A.1.B.4 Encourage reflection on how social media affects emotions, focus, and relationships.
A.2.A.1 Explain how digital platforms are designed to capture attention through likes, followers, and notifications.
A.2.A.2 Discuss how overuse can lead to stress, anxiety, comparison, and reduced self-esteem.
A.2.A.3 Describe how dopamine and “reward loops” influence behavior online.
A.3.A.1 Review best practices for maintaining privacy, including strong passwords and two-factor authentication.
A.3.A.2 Discuss the risks of sharing personal details, locations, or private images online.
A.3.A.3 Explain that once information is shared online, it can remain permanently accessible, even if deleted.
A.3.A.4 Review how posts, comments, and images can impact future opportunities.
A.4.A.1 Explain how algorithms determine what users see and how engagement keeps users scrolling.
A.4.A.2 Discuss persuasive design features (likes, shares, streaks) and how they impact self-worth or time spent online.
A.4.A.3 Encourage critical thinking about targeted ads, influencer marketing, and echo chambers.
A.5.A.1 Explain how our digital footprint impacts all materials shared or created online.
A.5.A.2 Discuss how information can be retained in private chats and messages.
A.5.A.3 Encourage discussion about the likelihood and consequences of old information resurfacing.
A.6.A.1 Discuss steps for protecting personal data and managing privacy settings.
A.6.A.2 Review how to identify and avoid suspicious links, phishing, and scams.
A.6.B.1 Explain what information should never be shared publicly (addresses, passwords, school details).
A.6.B.2 Reinforce the concept of “Think Before You Share.”
A.6.C.1 Define cyberbullying and review its emotional and legal consequences.
A.6.C.2 Discuss warning signs of predatory contact and human trafficking (unsolicited messages, secrecy requests, false promises).
A.6.C.3 Encourage students to protect themselves and their peers through vigilance and reporting.
A.6.D.1 Review district and school reporting procedures for cyberbullying, harassment, and suspicious online activity.
A.6.D.2 Emphasize trusted adults (parents, teachers, school counselors, SROs) as primary supports.
A.7.A.1 Explain how AI and algorithms shape what users see.
A.7.A.2 Discuss the risks of misinformation and “deepfake” content.
A.7.A.3 Teach students to evaluate information by asking: Who created this content? Why was it made? Is it accurate and reliable?
B.1.1 Explain how social media can support career exploration and academic development.
B.1.2 Demonstrate how students can highlight academic or extracurricular achievements, research colleges, scholarships, or military opportunities, and connect with mentors or professionals in fields of interest.
B.2.1 Discuss how social media helps maintain supportive relationships and family connections.
B.2.2 Encourage healthy digital communication and setting personal boundaries.
B.3.1 Explore how to participate safely in online communities related to hobbies or goals.
B.3.2 Discuss how to verify group legitimacy and recognize red flags.
B.3.3 Reinforce protecting personal information and avoiding risky interactions.