Topic title: Computer Crime
Year group: 8
When taught: September to December
What are we learning?
At the end of this unit all pupils should be able to:
• Understand what is meant by hacking
• Understand what personal data is and know what identity theft is
• Be able to create strong passwords
• Learn about different types of email scam including phishing
• Understand the term copyright:
• Learn about some of the common health and safety problems associated with computer use
Most pupils will be able to:
• Understand the Computer Misuse Act and what computer activities are illegal
• Know different types of malware and how to protect yourself from malware
• Be aware of who holds personal data and why they need to hold it
• Understand the effects of computer crime and learn about different types of email scam
• Be able to identify breaches of copyright and how they are detected
• Learn about some of the common health and safety problems associated with computer use
Some pupils will be able to:
• Learn about different types of email scam
• Understand the term copyright
• Learn about Health and Safety regulations
Why is this important to know?
Learning Skills:
• Synthesis: Pupils will bring together information about different types of computer crime to create solutions for staying safe online
• Evaluating how scams and hacking methods work and how to protect against them
• Designing strategies to avoid risks, such as identifying phishing emails or securing personal data
Life Skills:
• Understanding the risks and consequences of digital communication
• Learning how to protect personal data and behave responsibly online
• Preparing for the future by recognising the importance of cybersecurity in everyday life
ICT Skills:
• Using email and communication tools safely and effectively
• Applying basic security measures such as creating strong passwords and recognising phishing attempts
Literacy Skills:
• Learning and using key vocabulary such as phishing, malware, copyright and hacking,
• Developing skills to research, summarise, and present complex information clearly
• Linking computer crime concepts to other subjects like law, ethics, and technology
Where does this link into our past and future learning?
Pupils will have been introduced to the concept of e-safety in Year 7. They will have an understanding of social networking, keeping data safe, email scams and the reliability of the Internet. The will also have a basic understanding of both copyright and plagiarism.
Future learning topic: GCSE Computer Science – Impacts of the Digital Divide and Network Security
How will we be assessed on this topic?
• Pupils will sit a multiple-choice test as their final assessment.
What makes a strong piece of work in this topic?
• Shows a clear understanding of different types of computer crime (e.g. email scams, hacking, identity theft).
• Uses real-life examples to explain the risks and consequences of computer crime.
• Demonstrates good research and includes facts or statistics where appropriate.
• Uses correct terminology (e.g. phishing, malware, copyright infringement).
• Presents ideas clearly, whether it’s a written report, poster, presentation, or video.
• Includes advice or tips on how to stay safe and protect personal data.
• Is neatly presented and well-organised with correct spelling and grammar.
What are teachers hoping to see?
• Evidence that you understand key concepts, not just copying definitions.
• Engagement with the topic – curiosity, thoughtful questions, and personal reflection.
• Clear explanations of how computer crime affects people and society.
• Use of examples to show deeper thinking or application of knowledge.
• Original work that avoids plagiarism – using your own words and citing sources if needed.
• A good attitude towards online safety and responsible technology use.
What key words are there in this topic?
What can I try if I want to stretch and challenge myself on this topic?
• Research a real-world case of computer crime and analyse what happened and why.
• Create a guide or video explaining how to avoid online scams or protect personal data.
• Debate the ethical side of hacking: Are there “good hackers”? When is it wrong?
• Explore laws around computer crime in the UK and compare them with another country.
• Learn about careers in cyber security and what skills they require.
• Try basic coding or encryption activities to understand how digital protection works.
• Investigate how social media platforms deal with scams or misinformation.
What wider reading can be done on this topic?
• CGP KS3 Computing Complete Revision & Practice – sections on security and ethics
• Hodder Compute-IT: Computing for KS3 – chapters covering cyber security and online safety
• PG Online OCR GCSE Computer Science – topics on cyber security, data protection, and laws
What websites are linked to the topic?
• BBC Bitesize – Cyber Security and Online Safety https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/topics/zs7s4wx
• National Cyber Security Centre https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/section/information-for/i
• Get Safe Online https://www.getsafeonline.org/
• Think U Know – Online Safety for Young People
Careers
• Cyber Security Analyst
• Ethical Hacker (Penetration Tester)
• Forensic Computer Analyst
• IT Security Consultant
• Network Security Engineer
• Data Protection Officer
• Software Developer
• Cyber Crime Investigator
• Information Security Manager
• Risk Analyst
• Digital Forensics Expert
• Privacy Officer
Extra Skills:
• Communication
• Teamwork
• Problem-solving
• Time management
• Organisation
• Software Skills
Progression:
• Online tutorials
• Graphic design clubs
• GCSE Computer Science
• A-level Computer Science
• University/Apprenticeship
• Work experience
