Topic title: Networks, cybersecurity and operating systems
Year group: 10
When taught: January to June
What are we learning?
- The different ways computers can be connected, and the devices and transmission media needed.
- The advantages and disadvantages of local and wide area networks.
- Features that make a friendly and robust user interface
- Cyber security threats and prevention methods.
Why is this important to know?
- An understanding of how computers can be connected to each other can help to establish personal networks for data and device sharing at home.
- It helps students to develop features on applications that are designed to assist the user.
- All users of the internet need to recognise threats to personal data and know how to protect themselves.
- It expands our understanding of computer technology in today’s world.
Where does this link into our past and future learning?
- This links to recent learning on computer systems.
- Further understanding of networks and operating systems is covered at A level.
- There are career opportunities that specialise in cybersecurity and network management.
How will we be assessed on this topic?
- Topic assessments and Y10 end of year exam.
What makes a strong piece of work in this topic? What are teachers hoping to see?
- Understanding the different devices and protocols used in a network.
- Using key terms appropriately in answer to questions.
- Answers that incorporate the scenarios in the question.
- An ability to discuss the pros and cons of different networks and operating systems.
What key words are there in this topic?
What can I try if I want to stretch and challenge myself on this topic?
Develop your understanding of the associated theory using sites such as
