Lesson Plan: 'I Love You' virus

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Objectives

Students will create an operational definition for the term "computer virus." Students will compare the "I Love You" computer virus to another prominent computer virus. Standards

Technological solutions may create new problems. Science, by its nature, answers questions that may or may not directly influence humans. Sometimes scientific advances challenge people's beliefs and practical explanations concerning various aspects of the world. Benchmarks for Science Literacy

In deciding on proposals to introduce new technologies or to curtail existing ones, some key questions arise concerning alternatives, risks, costs, and benefits. What are the risks associated with using (or not using) the new technology, how serious are they, and who is in jeopardy? What human, material, and energy resources will be needed to build, install, operate, maintain, and replace the new technology, and where will they come from? How will the new technology and its waste products be disposed of and at what costs?

CNNfyi article: "Virus clues point to Philippines"
Computer with Internet access
Paper or posterboard
Pencil

1. Discuss the similarities between computer viruses and biological viruses, making sure to mention that:

The way computer viruses enter the code of computers is essentially similar to the way a biological virus enters the DNA code in cells. (The second recommended website explains biological viruses.) The way computer viruses cause computers to manufacture and distribute copies of the virus is essentially similar to the way biological viruses turn cells into virus producers and distributors. Both can spread quickly and be very costly to contain and treat

2. Have students read the CNNfyi article: "Virus clues point to Philippines".

3. Ask students:

Where do experts think the "I Love You" virus came from?
How does it work?
Why is it so difficult to contain?
What can be done to prevent it from continuing to spread?
What should a computer user do if he/she sees the virus as an e-mail attachment?

4. Form small groups of 3 - 4 students.

5. Have each group choose a virus from the first web site below to research.

Have each group research their chosen computer virus and make a list of similarities and differences between their researched virus and the "I Love You" virus. Have each group present their lists and explain which virus they think will end up being the most costly in terms of time and energy.