AP CSP Day 3 - Networking Basics
AP CSP Day 3 - Networking Basics
Course Information
- Course: AP Computer Science Principles
- Unit: Big Idea 2 - Computer Systems and Networks (CSN)
- Lesson: Day 3 (50 minutes)
- Learning Objective: CSN-1.C - Understand networking basics
Learning Objectives
Primary Goals
Students will be able to:
- Define what a network is
- Identify types of networks
- Understand basic network protocols
- Analyze real-world scenarios involving networks
AP Exam Alignment
- Big Idea 2: Computer Systems and Networks (16-20% of AP Exam)
- Essential Knowledge: CSN-1.C.1, CSN-1.C.2, CSN-1.C.3
- Computational Thinking Practice: 2.A - Develop algorithms for solving problems
Lesson Structure (50 minutes)
Opening Hook (10 minutes)
1.1 Welcome & Lesson Preview (5 minutes)
Teacher Activities:
- Recap previous day's content on data representation
- Introduce today's topic on networking basics
Student Activities:
- Think about: "What are some examples of networks in daily life?"
1.2 Network Examples Challenge (5 minutes)
Activity: "Identify the Network Type"
Instructions:
- Groups of 4-6 students
- Identify types of networks in given scenarios
- Discuss the importance of networks
Purpose: Activate thinking about networks
Core Content Instruction (20 minutes)
2.1 What is a Network? (10 minutes)
Definition (CSN-1.C.1):
A network is a collection of interconnected devices that communicate with each other.
Key Concepts:
- Types of networks: LAN, WAN, PAN
- Protocols: TCP/IP, HTTP
- Devices: Routers, switches, modems
Case Study: Understanding a home network
- Network: Home Wi-Fi network
- Components: Router, devices, internet connection
2.2 Common Network Protocols (5 minutes)
Examples:
- TCP/IP: Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol
- HTTP: Hypertext Transfer Protocol
- DNS: Domain Name System
Discussion Questions:
- What makes a good network protocol?
- Can you think of an example where networks are used in daily life?
- Why are networks important in computing?
2.3 Advanced Network Concepts (5 minutes)
Why is it important?:
- Connectivity: Enabling communication between devices
- Security: Protecting data transmission
Discussion Questions:
- How can we ensure connectivity in networks?
- Why is security important in networking?
Hands-On Activity (15 minutes)
3.1 Group Project: Explore Network Topologies (15 minutes)
Activity: "Design a Network"
Instructions:
- Groups of 3-4 students
- Design a simple network topology
- Present the topology to the class
Materials:
- **Topology design worksheet
- **Network checklist
Learning Goals:
- **Understand networks
- **Identify types of networks
- **Explore network protocols
- **Present ideas effectively
Assessment:
- **Group participation
- **Topology quality
- **Presentation clarity
Closure & Preview (5 minutes)
4.1 Key Concepts Review (2 minutes)
Today's Learning Highlights:
- ✅ Defining what a network is
- ✅ Identifying types of networks
- ✅ Understanding basic network protocols
- ✅ Analyzing real-world scenarios
AP Exam Connection:
- These concepts will appear in AP exam multiple choice questions
- Understanding networking basics is crucial for the Explore Performance Task
4.2 Next Class Preview (3 minutes)
Day 4 Topic: "Internet Fundamentals"
- Learning Objective: CSN-1.D - Understand internet fundamentals
- Activity: Exploring IP addresses and DNS
- Homework: Think about a recent interaction you had online. What type of network was involved?