Internet Safety: Read and Respond

The internet is a global network. It connects people using computers all around the world. The internet allows us to share ideas, communicate and access information quickly and across huge distances. That’s why the internet is a very powerful resource. That’s also why we need to use the internet safely. Whenever you’re using the internet, you should be sure you’re doing two things: keeping your computer safe and keeping yourself safe, too.

The author of this passage would most likely agree with which of the following statements?

• The internet has done more harm than good.

• The internet can be useful but also presents dangers.

• The internet is neither the best nor the fastest way to access information.

• nformation found on the internet can always be trusted.

A username is a string of letters and numbers that identifies the person using a computer system, network or online account. You might have a username for many things you do online, like playing games or even using Flocabulary. Usernames shouldn’t contain any personal information. Sometimes, other people on the web will be able to see your username. And strangers online are like strangers anywhere. You wouldn’t tell a stranger on the street your first and last name or your age or grade in school. Those things shouldn’t be available to strangers on the internet either.

Which detail from the passage above provides the best clue for the meaning of the phrase “personal information”?

• “...a string of letters and numbers…”

• “...playing games or even using Flocabulary.”

• “...your first and last name or your age or grade in school.”

• “...strangers online are like strangers anywhere.”

Along with a username, you might need a password. A password is a string of letters and numbers that lets you access a computer system, network or online account. It’s important that your password is kept confidential. You shouldn’t tell just anyone what your password is. Sometimes, a trusted adult--like a parent, guardian or teacher--may need to know your password. They might need to help you remember it or to make sure you’re using the internet safely. In that case, it’s OK to share. When coming up with a password, make sure no one can guess it. But don’t make it too complicated to remember either. A secure password contains capital and lowercase letters and numbers. It can also include symbols. Sometimes, symbols are used in place of letters that they look similar to, like an exclamation point in place of the letter "i." Some people like to think of a secret sentence about a favorite character, book or movie. Then, they can use that sentence to create their password. For example, the password BtFcL2e!c might stand for the sentence “Biggie the Flocabulary cat loves to eat ice cream.”

Which detail from the passage best explains why someone might need to know your password?

• “...the password BtFcL2e!c might stand for the sentence “Biggie the Flocabulary cat loves to eat ice cream.”

• “You shouldn’t tell just anyone what your password is.”

• “They might need to help you remember it or to make sure you’re using the internet safely.”

• “Then, they can use that sentence to create their password.”

Social networks are websites for building relationships with people who may share the same interests or activities. Many social networks have age requirements. For example, you must be at least 13 years old to create a Facebook account. If you’re old enough and choose to create an account, use the strictest privacy settings. Depending on the site and the settings, that can help you stay safe. It can prevent strangers from finding you and keeps your posts invisible to the public.

Based on the passage above, which of the following is the best example of a social network?

• a website where musicians can create accounts, connect with one another and share their music

• a band’s official website where they post new songs for their fans to download

• an online newspaper that covers stories related to pop music

• an online store where people can purchase old and hard to find records

Creating secure usernames and passwords helps you stay safe online. Keeping your computer safe is an important piece of internet safety, too. A virus is a piece of code that can copy itself and has a harmful effect on a computer. It might destroy data or steal personal information. Sometimes viruses are sent as attachments. An attachment is a file sent with an email. To keep your computer safe from viruses, never open an attachment from an email address you don’t recognize. If someone you do know emails you an attachment, read it critically. Make sure the email sounds like them and the attachment looks like something they’d send to you.

Which detail from the passage best shows that email attachments can be dangerous?

• “An attachment is a file sent with an email.”

• “Make sure the email sounds like them…”

• “A virus is a piece of code that can copy itself…”

• “Sometimes viruses are sent as attachments.”

A smartphone is a cell phone that can do many of the things a computer does. Smart phones can be used to read and write emails. They can also be used to search the web. Follow the same rules of internet safety when using a smartphone. Don’t open links sent in a text message if you don’t recognize the sender. Keep your personal information private on your smartphone, too.

Based on the passage above, how are smartphones like computers?

• They both require passwords and usernames.

• They both distract students from schoolwork.

• They both can be used to read and write emails and to search the web.

• They both can be used to make calls and text message.

As you continue to use the internet, you will have to create new usernames, recognize pop-up ads and keep your personal info private. Remember Lisa Lane’s experience when that happens. But also keep in mind that the internet is a big place. Many other things can happen when you’re online, and this song cannot cover everything. A final piece of advice will help you navigate the web: if you ever see something online that makes you feel uncomfortable, tell a trusted adult right away.

In the passage above, what is the meaning of the underlined phrase?

• The internet uses a lot of storage space on a computer.

• The internet is used by many people for many purposes.

• The devices that allow us to go online take up a lot of room.

• The internet exists in most countries.