How algorithms influence what we see
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can describe how algorithms influence the content we see online.
Key learning points
- Algorithms are computer programs that make choices about what content is suggested to us.
- If we watch or like content, the algorithm will suggest similar content that we are more likely to enjoy.
- The content that is suggested to us depends on data that is collected by social media companies.
- We are often shown the same content as people who are similar to us.
- We are often unaware that other content, ideas, and viewpoints exist, other than the ones see.
Keywords
Algorithm - a set of rules used or created by a computer program
Content - posts, videos, reels and articles put online by a content creator
Data - detailed information stored online
Viewpoint - a person's opinion or perspective, their point of view
Common misconception
I've seen most of the things on the internet.
We only see a fraction of the information on the internet. Algorithms suggest content that we are more likely to enjoy, and shield us from content that we are less likely to watch, often excluding diverse viewpoints.
Teacher tip
Encourage pupils to discuss how their own interests could be reflected in algorithms they see, now or in the future. Be conscious that pupils will have varying experiences of the internet and remind them of social media age restrictions, (typically 13+).
Content guidance
Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What is considered to be personal information online?
Q2.Match the word to the correct definition.
the viewers or followers of an online influencer
liking, commenting or otherwise interacting with an online post
websites and apps used to share words and images with other people
a network connecting computers across the world
Q3.Which are not tactics used by influencers to get more likes and followers?
Q4.Influencers are usually motivated by passion, fame, popularity and ...
Q5.Websites and apps sometimes have to help them make money.
Q6.Which of these statements are true?
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Match the word to the correct definition.
a set of rules used or created by a computer program
posts, videos, reels and articles put online by a content creator
detailed information stored online
a person's opinion or perspective, their point of view
Q2.'I've seen most of the things on the internet.' Is this statement true or false?
Q3.If we watch or like content, the algorithm will suggest __________ content that we are more likely to enjoy.
Q4.The content that is suggested to us depends on about us that is collected by social media companies.
Q5.What should we do if we see content online that we don't like?
Q6.Which of these statements are false?
To help you plan your 5 RSHE (PSHE) lesson on: How algorithms influence what we see, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 5 RSHE (PSHE) lesson on: How algorithms influence what we see, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 2 RSHE (PSHE) lessons from the Media influence: Who decides what I experience in the online world? unit, dive into the full primary RSHE (PSHE) curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.