As technology becomes more and more prevalent in education, it is crucial that students learn the basic mechanics of how it works. This includes understanding how the “at sign” (@) is used in email addresses and social media.
The at sign, also known as the “commercial at,” is a symbol that was originally used in accounting and commerce to represent “at the rate of” or “at a certain price.” However, since the rise of email and social media, the at sign has taken on a whole new meaning.
Teaching students about the importance of the at sign and how to properly use it is an important aspect of digital literacy. Here are some tips for educators looking to teach their students about the at sign:
1. Explain the purpose of the at sign: Start by explaining the origins of the at sign and its purpose in modern-day communication. Explain that it is used to join a username with the domain name to create an email address or social media handle.
2. Demonstrate how to use the at sign: Show students how to properly use the at sign in an email address or social media handle. Encourage them to practice on their own by creating their own email addresses or social media handles.
3. Emphasize the importance of correct usage: Explain to students that using the at sign incorrectly can lead to emails or messages not being delivered or ending up in the wrong place. Encourage them to double-check their use of the at sign before sending emails or messages.
4. Discuss the evolution of language: With the rise of email and social media, the at sign has become a crucial part of modern communication. Encourage students to consider how language and communication have changed over time and how the at sign has played a role in that evolution.
