Networks

uCSTA K-12 Computer Science Standards Grades 6-9

5. 2 Level 2: Computer Science and Community (L2)

ª Computational Thinking (CT)

8. Use visual representations of problem states, structures, and data (e.g., graphs, charts, network diagrams, flowcharts).

ª Collaboration (CL)

3. Collaborate with peers, experts, and others using collaborative practices such as pair programming, working in project teams, and participating in group active learning activities.

ª Computers & Communications Devices (CD)

6. Describe the major components and functions of computer systems and networks.

L e sso n F o c us

Young people take the Internet for granted. Through a serious of web-based explorations and kinesthetic exercises students explore the basic principles of graph theory and how it applies not only to their social connections but to how information is passed around.

O b je c t i v e s

Introduce students to:

ª How basic graph theoretic concepts are essential to the Internet.

ª How information is moved around a network.

ª How traffic on the Internet can be monitored.

ª How social media networks provide access to personal information.

A nt ic ip a t e d L e a r ne r O ut c o m e s

Students will be able to demonstrate/explain how:

ª A connected graph provides reliable service.

ª Information can be reliably moved from place to place with packets.