ICT · Pioneers 11–15 · Year 7
Computational thinking and networks
How does a message cross the world in a second?
What you will learn
- Decompose problems and design algorithms with flowcharts and pseudocode
- Explain how the internet works: packets, IP, DNS, routers
- Represent data in binary and convert to denary
- Use strong authentication and recognise phishing
Helpful to know first: Block-based programming
Discover
Think first: How does a message cross the world in a second? Say or jot one idea before you read on.
Learn — core route
- Packet-passing classroom simulation
- Binary bead bracelets
- Phishing line-up
Lessons in this subject: Learn Topics · ICT
Practise — check a common mix-up
The internet and the web are the same thing.
A message travels as one whole piece.
Apply / Create — How the Internet Works Explainer
Create a 2-minute video or annotated diagram explaining how a photo travels from one phone to another, including binary and security.
Evidence type: project · accessible alternative always allowed (speak it, draw it, or show an adult).
How it is judged (rubric)
- Beginning: Names parts
- Developing: Explains packets
- Secure: Packets, addressing, binary and security explained accurately
- Extending: Explains failure cases and encryption
Explain — say what you did
Review later
We'll offer a quick memory check in 7, 21 and 45 days. Mark this done and your Today page will remind you gently.
For grown-ups · framework mappings
- aligned to UK NC (Computing) · KS3 Computing: networks; data representation
- aligned to CSTA-aligned · 2-NI-04, 2-DA-07
Status: Live · reviewed
What's next?