Objective

By the end of this lesson, you will understand the basics of government and citizenship, and how they relate to social media platforms like TikTok.

Materials and Prep

• A computer or smartphone with internet access
• Pen and paper
• Basic knowledge of TikTok (or willingness to explore it during the lesson)

Activities

1. Research: Spend some time exploring TikTok and find at least three videos related to government or citizenship. Take notes on what you observe and any questions that come up.
2. Discussion: Share your findings with a parent or guardian. Discuss the content of the videos and how they relate to government and citizenship. Reflect on the impact of social media platforms like TikTok on civic engagement.
3. Reflection: Write a short paragraph reflecting on the role of social media in shaping political opinions and encouraging civic participation. Consider both the positive and negative aspects.

Sixth Grade Talking Points

• Government is a system that helps organize and manage a community or country. It makes decisions, enforces laws, and provides services to its citizens. Can you think of any decisions the government makes that affect your everyday life?

• Citizenship refers to the rights and responsibilities of individuals within a community or country. As a citizen, you have certain rights, such as freedom of speech and the right to vote. What are some ways you can be a responsible citizen?

• Social media platforms like TikTok can be used as tools for civic engagement. They provide a space for people to express their opinions, share information, and raise awareness about social issues. Can you think of any examples of social media being used for positive social change?

• It's important to be critical consumers of information on social media. Not everything you see or read may be accurate or unbiased. How can you verify the credibility of information you come across on TikTok or other social media platforms?