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      Understanding what we see online

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can describe ways to stay safe when online.

      Key learning points

      1. Websites and apps have common features.
      2. Websites and apps have links to other online places.
      3. Websites and apps sometimes have adverts.
      4. Adverts help websites and apps make money.
      5. Websites and apps may contain links to upsetting and annoying content.

      Keywords

      • Website - an online place; for example, a news page, a gaming site or a video-streaming service

      • Link - a word or picture that takes you to a new place if you click or tap it

      • Advertisement - something designed to sell something to you; this is often shortened to ad or advert

      • App - an application on a phone or tablet; for example, we can use apps to play games, chat to people, watch videos or explore the online world

      Common misconception

      Pupils may not realise that websites and apps often link to other sites.

      Remind pupils that it is easy to find ourselves in a new online place and that we can never know what might happen there.

      Teacher tip

      Use a reputable website to demonstrate the features outlined during the lesson. Always check the website first to ensure it is appropriate. Safeguarding issues should always be reported to your DSL.

      Content guidance

      Depiction or discussion of upsetting content

      Depiction or discussion of sensitive content

      Depiction or discussion of peer pressure or bullying

      Supervision

      Adult supervision recommended

      Licence

      This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2026), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0
      except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions
      (Collection 2).

      Lesson video

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      Prior knowledge starter quiz

      6 Questions

      Q1.
      A adult is someone who you would trust.

      Correct Answer: trusted

      Q2.
      Which of these are possible examples of adults you might trust?

      an online stranger
      Correct answer: a police officer
      a child in your class

      Q3.
      Which of the following is the definition of a website?

      Correct answer: an online place, for example, a news page, a gaming site or a streaming service
      a single web page with information on a particular topic
      a link to another website

      Q4.
      Which of the following activities might you do online?

      Correct answer: shopping online
      walking in the park for fresh air
      visiting a family member in person
      Correct answer: streaming a television show

      Q5.
      Which of these devices is likely to be online?

      a fridge
      Correct answer: a laptop
      a toaster
      Correct answer: a smartphone

      Q6.
      Match the word to the correct definition.

      Correct Answer:laptop,a computer which is easy to carry around
      Correct Answer:desktop computer,a device which is not designed to be carried around
      Correct Answer:mobile phone,a small device used to make calls and communicate

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      What feature would you use to find information on a website?

      Correct Answer: search bar, search

      Q2.
      Match the word to the definition.

      Correct Answer:website ,an online place, for example, a news page or a gaming site
      Correct Answer:link ,a word or picture that takes you to a new place if you click or tap it
      Correct Answer:advertisement ,something designed to sell something to you
      Correct Answer:app ,a programme on a phone or tablet

      Q3.
      What is the main purpose of online advertisements?

      Correct answer: to make you want to buy things
      to provide entertainment
      to inform the you about current news

      Q4.
      If you see something online which makes you feel upset or unsafe, you should ...

      Correct answer: tell a trusted adult.
      share the link with your friend.
      keep it a secret.

      To help you plan your 4 RSHE (PSHE) lesson on: Understanding what we see online, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...