Content in this lesson features information about wireless communication, satellite communication, and MP3 Files. Activities include reviewing some of the content in the Penny Search game, designing a children's product that uses an MP3 file, and collaborating with a partner on a report.

This lesson should take about two 50-minute class periods. The lesson should be modified to fit time available and needs of your class.

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• To help students gain knowledge about wireless communication, satellite communication, and MP3 files.
• To help students realize the dangers hackers pose to computers, computer networks, and their own information.
• To interest girls in studies in mathematics, science, and technology.
• To encourage creative thinking.
• To make learning about how technologies work easy to understand and fun.

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See what your students remember from Penny's Search about music files and use of satellites for communication. Review basic information about MP3 files and satellites. Ask them how they use MP3 files.

Explain that in this lesson, they'll be working with a partner or a small group to design a new children's product that features MP3 files. The product may be a design for a new toy, game, Internet activity, etc.

Assign partners or groups for the lesson.

Have the students link to their Task Sheets ( PDF - 15KB) and follow the guidelines for completion. You can download and edit the Task Sheet if you would like to make changes in it. Click here to download the Children's Product Report ( PDF - 14KB).

Bring the class together for a discussion of the products. During the discussion make sure your students have an understanding of satellite communication, compression of music files, and the need to encode packets.

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Sites you or your students may want to visit for their assignments:

• Boowa & Kwala
  Nice examples of using songs in creations for children.
• How MP3 Files Work
  Learn how your favorite music can be available to you online.
• How Does Satellite Internet Operate
  Information on accessing the Internet through satellite.
• Kiddie Records
  A selection of free children's music to download in MP3 format.
• What is the Internet?
  A tutorial that includes how the Internet works.

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Evaluate students as they work in class:

• Works effectively with group members*.
• Follows the directions on the Task Sheet.
• Uses computer equipment safely and effectively.
• Completes the written report.

*In some group projects, one or two students will do most of the work. During the work phase of this lesson, check to make sure all team members are doing their share of the work.

Each Item 1-5 is worth a total of 15 points, for 75 total points.

Items 1-5 should include:

1. Explanation of why MP3 files are popular and convenient to use online and in products. Compression of files should be mentioned.
2. Explanation of how files travel through wireless connections throughout the world.
3. Explanation of how hacker packets can slow up communication and how space weather may interfere with connections.
4. Explanation of how the product might be created without Internet connections. What about time involved?
5. Description of the product. The product should make use of MP3 files and be something that would interest children.

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