Star Fork Issue

Internet of Strings

Lesson Plan: Hands-on IoT Internet of Strings

Summary

This module will introduce students to networking and routing concepts through an interactive game.

Grade

Can be modified as needed to accommodate grade level

Cybersecurity First Principles in this Lesson

Learning Objectives

Students understand the role of routers, TCPs, & packets within networks.
Students will be able to visualize the activity of networks.

Materials

Index cards
Paper to make labels
Blue painters’ tape
Envelopes
Post-it notes (for MS/HS version)

Preparation (for a class of 30)

Label 4 envelopes with “From: Computer 1, To: Computer 2”. Label the next 4 with “From: Computer 2, To: Computer 3”. Label the last 4 with “From: Computer 3, To: Computer 1”.
Write 4-word phrases on the index cards - one word per index card.
Create labels for computers, routers, and TCP for the floor network map. Give each computer & router a number (e.g. “Computer 1”, “Router 1”).
Create a map on the ground using the blue tape and labels, using the map below as reference or creating your own.*

* If running the MS/HS version, the routing tables are only compatible with the given floor network map, so you will have to create your own routing tables if you modify the map.

Learning Facilitation

Warm-up Activity

Watch this video and host a discussion on routing tables and how packets travel over a network.

Focused Activity

Students will role play as components of digital networks. The objective of the game is to successfully deliver a team’s packets from an originating computer to its destination computer.

If time permits:

Increase the difficulty by “breaking network lines” (cut the tape). Students will have to reroute to find the quickest route on the available network lines.
Allow students to switch roles so they can better understanding other components of the network.

Closure

Provide a 5 minute warning when the activity will end. Once complete, have all the students help put away the supplies.

Reflection

Once the activity is over, host a discussion on how this activity translates to networking routing.

Optional Alterations

If class is slightly larger/smaller than 30, simply get rid of as many router spots as needed.
If class is significantly larger/smaller than 30, add or remove a computer; or change the length of the phrases at each computer.
To play outside, set up the game using chalk or use string/yarn as the network lines.