7_2_1

WHAT: Identify an algorithm

HOW:

Activity 1 (read this)

An algorithm is a series of instructions that end when the problem is solved.

Repeat...

An algorithm is a series of instructions that end when the problem is solved.

Can you tell me what an algorithm is?

"Algorithm" is a strange word but the more you say it, the easier it will be to remember. Algorithms don't just happen in the digital world. They are simply a series of instructions that end when the problem is solved. If I gave you directions to the nearest coffee shop then the algorithm would be complete when the last instruction gets you to your location.

Activity 2

Write down five examples of an algorithm that you use in the real world.

Activity 3

Here is an algorithm for drawing a square. The image shows how this would appear in a programming language (Scratch):

Start

Find a pencil, pen and ruler
Decide on the length of each side
Draw a line the desired length using the ruler
Turn your ruler 90 degrees
Draw a second line the same length, the line should be linked to the previous line
Turn your ruler 90 degrees
Draw a third line the same length, the line should be linked to the previous line
Turn your ruler 90 degrees
Draw a fourth line the same length, the line should be linked to the previous line

End

Read BOTH algorithms and spot the similarities and differences.

Both algorithms end with the problem solved but their instructions are a bit different.

When you design an algorithm for a computer you need to be very specific with your instructions. For you to do this yourself, you need to be able to think computationally.

CHECK:

EMBED:

Using photo editing software, create a collage showing examples of algorithms. You should include the definition of an algorithm on your collage. For inspiration you could complete a google image search for "Collage" >>> Collage Google Image Search

CLASSROOM IDEAS:

The purpose of this outcome is literally to ensure students can "Identify an algorithm". Students often find this word challenging to remember but it should be embedded by the end of the outcome.

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