Sharon Cardillo, a dedicated Physical Education and Wellness teacher at Groton-Dunstable Regional Middle School, is always finding creative ways to engage her students in meaningful discussions about health and well-being. Now in her eighth year with the district, Ms. Cardillo recently introduced an interactive lesson on screen addiction, an issue that resonates with today’s digitally connected students.
The lesson encouraged students to explore how screens and smartphones impact their daily lives, both positively and negatively. Ms. Cardillo challenged students to think critically about their relationship with technology, recognizing how apps and devices are designed to capture attention and keep users engaged. Through thoughtful conversations, students acknowledged that while technology in moderation is beneficial, developing self-control is essential for maintaining overall well-being. Ms. Cardillo shared,"My hope before implementing the lesson was simple, increase their awareness of the lasting effects of screen usage at home, school, and the space between."
As part of the activity, students explored three key learning objectives:
Identifying both the positive and negative impacts of technology in their lives
Reflecting on their use of technology at school, at home, and in their social lives, considering how it affects their relationships
Comparing their experiences with those of subjects in a documentary film, fostering empathy and understanding
This lesson was new for Ms. Cardillo and the Wellness curriculum, serving as an added resource to spark deeper discussions. Hannah C., an eighth-grade student, echoed this sentiment, “I didn't realize the impact it had on the development of the brain.”
To apply their learning, seventh and eighth graders researched digital habits and created eye-catching posters to educate their peers. Students focused on screen addiction, sleep disturbances, social media, and digital citizenship. One student, Andrew W., noted that the project helped them realize how much time they spend on their phone, sharing, “I felt it impacted my awareness and I have used screens less.”
In addition to researching the science behind screen addiction, students reflected on their usage patterns and brainstormed ways to establish a healthier balance. Some students committed to reducing notifications.
“I want to experience life first…”
- Avery B., Eighth-Grader.
By the end of the lessons Ms. Cardillo prepared, student-created posters lined the hallways in the Stoddart Building, serving as daily reminders of the importance of mindful technology use. Ms. Cardillo’s innovative approach helped students recognize the impact of screen time and empowered them with strategies to take control of their digital habits, an essential skill in today’s tech-driven world.
Reflecting on the lesson's impact, Ms. Cardillo said, "My students proudly share with me that they have decreased their screen time, increased their sleep time, and engaged with family and friends, strengthening their interpersonal relationships and communication skills."
