Course : Γ456 English course- ΕΛΕΝΗ ΞΑΝΘΑΚΟΥ- Sky is the limit

Here’s a mock case scenario

Case Scenario: “The Group Chat”

Setting

A Grade 10 class at Westbrook High School. Students have known each other for years, but social groups have recently shifted.

The Victim: Mia

Mia is a 15-year-old student who recently transferred from another school. She is quiet, artistic, and does well academically. She struggles socially because she joined mid-year and hasn’t built strong friendships yet.

Mia begins noticing:

• Students whispering when she walks past.

• Snickering during class presentations.

• A meme circulating on Instagram using her school photo, making fun of her clothes and calling her “Grandma Mia.”

• Being excluded from group work chats.

She feels embarrassed, anxious, and begins pretending to be sick to avoid school.

The Bully: Jason

Jason is a popular 16-year-old student and captain of the junior basketball team. He has a large social media following in school and often sets trends.

Jason:

• Creates the meme about Mia and posts it in a private class group chat.

• Encourages others to “like” and share it.

• Makes sarcastic comments in class such as, “Maybe Mia can paint us a personality.”

• Claims it’s “just a joke” when confronted.

Jason enjoys the attention and laughs from others. He does not physically threaten Mia but uses social status and digital platforms to embarrass her.

The Bystanders

1. The Passive Bystander – Emma
Emma feels uncomfortable when she sees the meme but does nothing. She worries that speaking up might make her the next target.

2. The Reinforcer – Liam
Liam reposts the meme and adds laughing emojis. He wants Jason’s approval and enjoys being included.

3. The Defender – Sofia
Sofia privately messages Mia to check on her and reports the Instagram post to the platform. She considers telling a teacher but hesitates because she doesn’t want to “cause drama.”

Escalation

One day, during a group presentation, Jason interrupts Mia and mocks her voice. Several students laugh. Mia freezes and asks to go to the bathroom, where she cries. Later that week, her grades begin slipping and she stops participating in art club.

A teacher notices Mia’s change in behavior but assumes it’s typical teenage moodiness.

Discussion Questions for the Classroom

1. What type(s) of bullying are present in this scenario? (Social? Verbal? Cyberbullying?)

2. What power imbalance exists between Jason and Mia?

3. How did the bystanders influence the situation?

4. What could Emma have done differently?

5. What risks and benefits might Sofia consider in reporting?

6. At what point should adults intervene?

7. What long-term effects could this have on Mia?

8. If you were a teacher at this school, what steps would you take?