Cyber Security

Course Description

This high school cyber security class introduces students to the essential concepts and skills needed to protect digital information and systems. Students will learn about various types of cyber threats, security measures, and best practices for safe online behavior. Through hands-on projects and real-world scenarios, participants will develop critical skills and gain practical knowledge in securing networks and data. By the end of the course, students will be equipped to informed decisions regarding cyber safety and security in their personal and professional lives.

Power Standards

11-12.PI.1- Monitor and manage information personally shared online about oneself and others.

11-12.SC.2- Implement best practices to secure personal information when

accessing technology.

11-12.E.1- Analyze complex ethical dilemmas related to emerging technologies and evaluate the responsibilities of users, developers, and policymakers.

11-12.DC.4- Assess and refine one’s digital identity and footprint to maintain a positive online presence.

course outline

Unit 1 Foundations & Threats

0.1 First Day Info & Ethics Agreement - Notes

Careers – introduction to reasons for pursuing cybersecurity career and motivations such as job demand, protect society, income, etc.
Review what will be covered in class – objectives handout to determine what students find most and least interesting.
Ethics agreement – Discuss why we need one. Review real Ethics Agreement for understanding of expectations and consequences.
Assignments:

1.1 CIA Triad and Authentication - Notes

Cybersecurity goal is to protect CIA of data at rest, in transit and in use.
Define Authentication as a key tool - explore methods including strong passwords, tokens, MFA and biometrics
Identify attacks on passwords and use of salted hashes as defense.
Assignments:

1.2 Identifying Security Threats

Define types of malware and the complexity of threats
Examine impact on systems and on people.
Summarize the best practices for protecting against malicious software.
Assignments:

1.3 Intro to Command Line