U2CH1L2_BuildingANetwork

Purpose: Students will build a number of physical networks.

Activity: Build A String Network
Explanation
We are going to build a computer network that will let us communicate with multiple people. We will be using strings to represent our connections (Place a pile of 5” stings in the center of the groups.):

• Groups of 5: 10 strings
• Groups of 6: 15 strings
• Groups of 7: 21 strings

Guidelines

• If two people are connected with a string, then they are allowed to speak to each other.
• Only two people can be connected by a single string, but you can be connected to multiple people at the same time via multiple strings.

Challenge 1: Students work in groups to create a network where everyone can speak directly to everyone else.
Challenge 2:  String costs money, so use the least number of strings possible.
Challenge 3:  As a group, create a network that keeps everyone connected, even if one of the lines is cut.
Challenge 4:  As a group, create a network that incorporates all 3 challenges above!