Secret Code Breakers โ KS3 Cryptography Cover Lesson
A fun, ready-to-use KS3 Computer Science cover lesson introducing cryptography through Caesar ciphers, Pigpen codes, and substitution ciphers.
Animated PowerPoint
Printable/digital worksheet
Teacher instructions included
Links to online cipher tools
No prep needed โ perfect for non-specialists
Great for Year 7โ9, cover lessons, enrichment, or end-of-term fun! Students decode secret messages, create their own ciphers, and learn how cryptography protects our data.
A ready-to-use KS3 Computing cover lesson focused on Facial Recognition Technology, designed for Year 9 students. This lesson encourages critical thinking about emerging technologies, privacy, and real-world tech applications. Perfect for use by non-specialist teachers and easy to assign via Microsoft Teams or Google Classroom as a digital assignment.
Whatโs Included:
Main Worksheet:
A fully structured lesson on Facial Recognition Technology, including:
Starter task โ keyword generation
Design a facial recognition interface
Step-by-step process writing
Pros and cons analysis
Opinion writing โ should schools use this tech?
Short debate on facial data privacy
Extension Task:
An independent research worksheet where students explore a new/emerging technology of their choice (e.g., AI in healthcare, space tourism, AR in education).
They are guided to:
Research how the tech works
Identify pros/cons
Summarise findings in a report, slideshow, or infographic
Compare it to driverless cars
Perfect For:
Cover lessons
Homework or flipped learning
Remote/independent study
Digital assignment submission
Digital-Ready:
Both worksheets are fully editable Word documents that can be shared in Microsoft Teams or Google Classroom. Students can edit their own copy and submit directly via the platformโno printing required!
Lesson Duration:
1 full lesson (50โ60 minutes)
Optional extension task for early finishers or homework
Teacher-Friendly:
No planning needed
Non-specialist friendly
Supports digital skills and ethical thinking
Cyber Defenders โ KS3 Computing Cover Lesson | Cybersecurity Game-Based Activity
Engage your KS3 students in a fun, interactive computing cover lesson with this cybersecurity-themed game challenge! Perfect for non-specialist teachers or end-of-term lessons, this one-off activity requires no prior knowledge, making it ideal for a drop-in or emergency cover.
Mission Objective:
Students take on the role of Cyber Defenders and play a selection of free online cybersecurity games (all links included in the PPT). They log their digital heroics using a creative mission tracker covering games played, skills learned, villain encounters, and more.
Whatโs Included:
Fully editable PowerPoint file
A clear, student-friendly slide layout
Hyperlinks to engaging online cybersecurity games (e.g., Interland, PBS, Jigsaw, CyberMission, and more)
Optional creative extension task (design a team badge)
Fun, low-prep structure with reflection elements
Encourages digital literacy and online safety awareness
Skills Covered:
Online safety
Password security
Phishing awareness
Encryption basics
Responsible digital citizenship
Duration:
1 full lesson (45โ60 minutes)
Perfect for Remote Learning or Homework Too:
This lesson can be posted directly to Microsoft Teams or Google Classroom as an assignment. Students can edit their own copy of the digital worksheet and complete the task independently, either in school or at home.
Teacher-Friendly:
No specialist knowledge needed
Just open the PowerPoint and go
Suitable for in-class or homework/independent study
This engaging and easy-to-use cover lesson is perfect for KS3 (Year 8) Computer Science classes. Ideal for supply teachers, non-specialists, or end-of-term lessons, no prior computing knowledge is needed to deliver this session.
Students research a famous tech innovator (such as Ada Lovelace, Steve Jobs, or Elon Musk) and create a colourful digital poster based on clear criteria. The task promotes independent learning, creativity, and digital literacy, making it ideal for one-off or emergency cover lessons.
Whatโs Included:
PowerPoint Presentation with instructions and example
PDF instruction sheet for students (can be printed or uploaded to Teams/Classroom)
Clear success criteria and mark scheme
Fully resourced, no preparation required
Suitable for in-class or homework extension
Learning Objectives:
Learn about key tech pioneers and their contributions
Practice digital research skills
Develop presentation and layout skills in PowerPoint or Word
Foster independent learning and ICT creativity
Perfect for:
KS3 Computer Science (Year 7โ9)
Last-minute cover
Homework projects
Drop-down days or enrichment lessons
Cross-curricular digital literacy
Top Tip:
Set this up as an assignment on Teams or Google Classroom โ students can work independently and upload their posters directly!