Public Key Encryption: Kid Krypto

Add to list Go to activity
Activity link broken? See if it's at the internet archive
In this activity, learners conduct a simulation exercise related to public key encryption and try to intercept a message sent between two learners. This activity works with two learners but is most exciting with a large group. Use this activity to introduce learners to cryptography, authentication, internet security/privacy issues and internet commerce. Background information and further reading suggestions are included in the PDF.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
Under 5 minutes
Learning Time:
30 to 45 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
free per group of students
Age Range:
Ages 11 - 18
Resource Types:
Activity, Lesson/Lesson Plan, Simulation
Language:
English

Materials List (per group of students)

Keywords

Subjects

  • Engineering and Technology
    • Computing
      • Computer Science
      • Information Systems
      • Information Technology
    • Engineering
      • Computer Engineering
    • Technology
      • Information and Communication
  • Mathematics
    • Data Analysis and Probability
      • Data Analysis
      • Data Representation
    • Number and Operations
      • Number Systems
    • Reasoning and Proof
    • Representation
  • The Nature of Technology
    • Technology and Society
      • Impacts of Technology
  • The Nature of Science
    • Science and Society
      • Risks and Benefits
      • Ethics

Informal Categories

  • Computers

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • read
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves teamwork and communication skills
  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

Foreign language versions of this resource:

Components that are part of this resource:

Includes alignment to state and/or national standards:

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

  • Bell, Tim ; Witten, Ian ; Fellows, Mike

Rights:

Funding Sources:

  • Brian Mason Scientific and Technical Trust
  • Google Inc.