Email and Messaging

The internet makes it incredibly easy to stay in touch with friends and family, no matter where they are in the world!

What is Email?

Email stands for “electronic mail.” It’s like a digital version of a letter. You can send a message to someone’s email address, and they can read it whenever they want. You can even attach files like pictures or documents to your emails.

Instant Messaging

Instant messaging (or IM) is for quick, real-time conversations. When you send a message, the other person gets it right away, and you can chat back and forth just like you’re talking in person! Popular messaging apps include WhatsApp, Messenger, and iMessage.

Email vs. Messaging

Which one should you use?

• Email: Use this for longer messages, for something that isn’t urgent, or for sending a formal message (like to a teacher).
• Messaging: Use this for quick “hi” messages, for talking to friends, or for making plans for later that day.

Did you know?

• The first email: The first email was sent in 1971 by a man named Ray Tomlinson. He also came up with the idea of using the @ symbol in email addresses!
• A “Subject Line”: Always include a clear subject line in your emails so the person receiving it knows what the message is about before they even open it.
• Emoticons: The first smiley face :-) was used in an email in 1982 by a computer scientist named Scott Fahlman to show that he was joking!

Check Your Knowledge

1. What does “Email” stand for?
2. What is the difference between email and instant messaging?
3. When would it be better to send an email instead of a text message?
4. Who sent the first email and why is the @ symbol important?
5. Why is a subject line helpful in an email?