ALG RITHMS
What’s an algorithm?
An algorithm is a set of steps that you follow to solve a problem or complete a task. You use algorithms every day—like following a recipe, tying your shoes, or brushing your teeth in the same order every morning.
In coding, algorithms tell the computer exactly what to do and in what order.
Vocabulary
Algorithm
A list of clear steps that solve a problem or do a task
Why is the SEQUENCE of steps important?
Watch the video below called "Program your teacher to make a Jam Sandwich"
In the video, the teacher followed the students’ directions exactly—even when they didn’t make sense!
What does this tell you about how computers follow algorithms?
Your task:
Explain why it’s important to give super-clear, step-by-step instructions when writing an algorithm.
Describe one part of the video where the instructions caused something to go wrong. What would you change to fix that step?
How about a real world example for you?
Think About It
What’s something you do every day that could be turned into an algorithm?
(Hint: If you can explain it step-by-step, it’s an algorithm!)
Bob'z Code Quest
Edit a MakeCode Arcade program to have the sprite tell us the algorithm for making a bowl of cereal.
Directions:
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Click the button to open the starter program.
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Delete the words "Step 1" and replace them with your first step to making cereal.
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Delete the words "Step 2" and replace them with the second step of the algorithm.
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Keep deleting the words in the "mySprite say" blocks and add in the rest of the steps in order to finish the algorithm of making a bowl of cereal.