Intro to Algorithms and Programming

Overview

Materials

• Day 1 PowerPoint deck
• Flowchart Activity
• Flowchart Activity in Word
• Reflection
• Reflection (in Word)
• What's an algorithm? - David J. Malan
• Why algorithms are called algorithms | BBC Ideas

Additional Materials

• Calculator, computer
• Lined paper
• Pencils

Instructional Activities and Classroom Assessments

1. Humans vs Computers (10 minutes)
2. What is an Algorithm? (10 minutes)
3. Where did Algorithms Come From? (5 minutes)
4. Using Flowchart Symbols (20 minutes)
5. Homework

Learning Objectives

• AAP-2.A Express an algorithm that uses sequencing without using a programming language. 2.A
• AAP-2.L Compare multiple algorithms to determine if they yield the same side effect or result. 1.D
• AAP-2.M For algorithms:
  1. Create algorithms. 2.A

Essential Knowledge

• AAP-2.A.1 An algorithm is a finite set of instructions that accomplish a specific task.
• AAP-2.A.4 Every algorithm can be constructed using combinations of sequencing, selection, and iteration.
• AAP-2.B.1 Sequencing is the application of each step of an algorithm in the order in which the code statements are given.
• AAP-2.L.1 Algorithms can be written in different ways and still accomplish the same tasks.
• *AP-2.L.2 Algorithms that appear similar can yield different side effects or results.
• AAP-2.M.1 Algorithms can be created from an idea, by combining existing algorithms, or by modifying existing algorithms.
• AAP-2.M.3 Using existing correct algorithms as building blocks for constructing another algorithm has benefits such as reducing development time, reducing testing, and simplifying the identification of errors.

Details

1. Humans and computers can do the same things (10 minutes)

• Human vs. Computer demonstration.
• Demonstrate that humans and computers can do the same things, though they each do certain things better than the other.
• Lead a discussion with students about who did the jobs better, human or computer, and why.

2. What is an Algorithm? (10 minutes)

• Define algorithm.
• Play video What's an algorithm? - David J. Malan).
• Discuss how every algorithm can be constructed using combinations of sequencing, selection, and iteration.
• Share examples from real life.
• Encourage students to share their own examples.

3. Where did algorithms come from? (5 minutes) 

• Show video (BBC Ideas) Why algorithms are called algorithms | BBC Ideas.

4. Using flowchart symbols (20 minutes)

• Introduce flowchart symbols.
• Distribute Flowchart Symbols handout.
• Work with students to create a flowchart for the "counting the people in the room algorithm" in the "What's an algorithm?" video.
• Have students work in pairs to create an algorithm to add all ages in the room one after another.
• You can use the Group Generator program to randomly sort students.
• Give students 3-5 minutes to write their algorithm.
• When they are finished, ask them to share their algorithms.
• Emphasize:
  • Algorithms can be written in different ways and still accomplish the same tasks.
  • When they created their algorithm, they may have combined existing algorithms or modified existed algorithms.
  • Using existing correct algorithms as building blocks for constructing another algorithm has benefits such as reducing development time, reducing testing, and simplifying the identification of errors.

5. Homework- Where else are algorithms?

• Students can complete their Reflection in their OneNote or other journal location.
• How do algorithms affect our daily lives? Our society?
• Where else are algorithms?
  • Research an area where algorithms are used (travel/transportation, shipping, retail, gaming, medicine, science, climate, society, etc.).
  • Record your research source(s).
  • Be prepared to share in class.