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Check the Source

Not every headline online is true. Learn quick checks: who wrote it, where else it appears, and whether photos match the story.

Class 6 to 8beginner16 min3 lessons
By the end you will be able to
  • List three questions to ask about a surprising claim
  • Explain why angry headlines spread faster than calm facts
  • Describe when to ask a teacher or librarian for help

Finish first

Spot a Phish
Topic contents

Lesson 1 of 3

Surprise is not proof

A post claiming aliens landed in the canteen will get shares because it is exciting. Excitement is not evidence. Slow down before you forward.

Ask who published it. Do they name real people and dates? Do trusted news or school sites report the same story?

Step through the animation. Watch a rumour fail each check.

Continue

Lesson 2 of 3

Photos and videos lie too

Editing tools can put anyone's face on any body. A real video from last year can be captioned as happening today.

If only one random account shows a clip, wait. Librarians and teachers can help you search better.

Phishing steals passwords. Fake news steals trust. Both need a pause.

Continue

Lesson 3 of 3

Be a helpful friend

If a mate shares fake news, message privately with a better link instead of public shame.

Next topic covers app permissions: another place where small clues add up to big privacy.

Curiosity plus patience beats instant forwarding.

Continue

Practice

Work these out yourself

No answer key here on purpose: these are the questions worth thinking through before you move on. Open one and work it out.

0/3 attempted

Assessment

Check your understanding

Answer each question, then read the explanation. That is where the learning is.

0/4
  1. Question 1: A surprising meme should make you do what first?
    Question 1 / 4

    A surprising meme should make you do what first?

    Select an option first
  2. Question 2: Finding zero trusted sites with the same story suggests what?
    Question 2 / 4

    Finding zero trusted sites with the same story suggests what?

    Select an option first
  3. Question 3: An old photo with a new caption is risky because what?
    Question 3 / 4

    An old photo with a new caption is risky because what?

    Select an option first
  4. Question 4: A librarian or teacher can help because what?
    Question 4 / 4

    A librarian or teacher can help because what?

    Select an option first
4 of 4 questions left.

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