Overview of the Cryptology Unit
This unit is used in conjunction with the Intel kit "The Journey Inside: The Computer",
discussing microprocessor function and computer operation. This unit is part of a spiral curriculum designed to introduce students to computer operation, terminology, ASCII and binary numbering system, history of computers, desktop publishing, computer programming, telecommunications, and how the computer is an outstanding
tool for mathematical calculations and enhanced communication.
The entire unit is composed of documents, copyright 1996, authored by Ken Dunham.
You may make copies at no charge provided you attach appropriate credits.
Additional documents and activities are also used to help teach the unit. They were
not included because of copyright issues or lack of time to convert them to a HTML
document.
The total time for this unit can range from 15-25 days, depending upon how much time
is available to teach the unit. Instead of teaching every single cryptology code,
cipher, or concealment method, I make use the following activity:
Each student is given 2 or more cipher, codes, or concealment messages to learn and teach
to others. Talented and gifted students may receive more, while learning disabled
students may receive only one. Each student then learns their encryption and makes
up a secret message that is only shared with the teacher. The encrypted message is then posted
on the wall and other students try to figure out what it says in plain English.
At least one other student in the class will have the same cipher, code, or concealment
message and should be able to identify it based on the numbers, pictures, or patterns
used.
After a student figures out a posted message they inform the instructor and the person
that made the encrypted message. The two individuals then work as a team to tell
two or more people how to decrypt their messages. Students work against
one another to see who can figure out the other persons message first, and then work together as a team
to break all the encryptions first. Students are given extra credit
if they present their methodology and strategies for decryption, as a cooperative group, to the entire class.
The unit wraps up with a formal review of deciphering techniques, exam, and an optional treasure hunt with about $50.00 in prizes.
Most of the documents related to this course are in their first year of development (as of 1996). I consider them to be *rough* drafts since I have only used them once or twice in the classroom so far. However, I'm very pleased with my results since this unit enables me to teach without computers when resources are limited but also enables me to enhance my instruction in a lab when using the marathon method previously explained.
*If you were able to hear the .au sound (rough recording) that loaded with this page it says "Welcome" in morse code.
If you have any further questions or comments, feel free to contact Ken Dunham
at kdunham@securityportal.com.