Recap previous learning
1 What is the thinking method called to break a problem down into smaller steps? Sequencing
2 What is an algorithm? Step-by-step instructions to finish specific task.
3 What is another name for problem solving? Debugging
4 There is only one correct solution for every problem. True or False?
5. What is sequencing? Sequencing is the skill of shorten down a process into simple steps and
putting those steps in an order.
Task 1 - Read the sentences carefully and use the gap-fill words to replace ?s
* Algorithms are sets of instructions. Gap-fill words
* Algorithms should be easy to understand and be clear
enough that someone else can follow the instructions in * follow
the correct order. * Different
They are used for different things, eg. How to exit a * exit a building safely
building safely or how to operate machinery. * instructions
* efficient
* Different algorithms can be used to solve the same task, * correct order
but a more efficient algorithm may solve it in less time. * easy to understand
Task 2 - In your own words, state three rules for writing a successful algorithm
1) It's important to make a specific input and output.
2) The most efficient technique to tackle a problem should be an algorithm.
3)
Now use this website to find out how flowcharts can be used to help represent algorithms -
look at the common flowchart symbols/shapes (5 mins)
Ovals show the ‘start’ arrows are used to show the flow of the program
and ‘end’ of instructions from each instruction to the next
in a flowchart
Parallelograms are used for outputs and inputs.
Diamonds show where a
decision is needed. Often 4 these are ‘yes’ or ‘no’
(e.g. ‘output’ to ask a question. ‘Input’ to answers. Two arrows will flow out pointing to
capture data eg. a response to a where the next instruction is
question) Rectangles show a process
(eg. storing data or working out a
calculation)
Task 3 - State the purpose of each of the flowchart shapes in the table below
Shape Purpose - what is it for?
Ovals show the ‘start’ and ‘end’ of instructions in a flowchart.
Parallelograms are used for outputs and inputs.
Rectangles show a process.
Diamonds show where a decision is needed.
Finish the sentence: The purpose of the arrow is to … show the flow of the program from each
instruction to the next
Task 4a - using the flowchart below, explain what a loop (iteration) is and how it works
loop is steps that needs repeating and it preforms a specific operation until the last process is
reached.
Type your answer below:
Task 4b - using the shapes below, recreate a flowchart to make an outside light
come on when it is dark outside. Look at the previous example.
You will need to: sequence the steps, insert lines to show the flow, insert text boxes for
yes/no labels.
START
Is it dark
outside?
Task 4c - recreate your own ‘best subject’ flowchart like this one on
bitesize 1) insert all shapes 2) position shapes 3) add lines 4) add
text labels
What does the input statement
do? lets the user type ahead when
entering a response.
Where is the decision taking
place? Decision
What is an output? The product of
the input.
Task 4d - ‘a cup of tea’ flowchart Is sugar Is milk
1) sequence steps 2) add missing steps 3) insert lines wanted? wanted?
4) insert text labels
start Is kettle
boiled?
Fill kettle
stop
● Check kettle has water in Switch kettle on Add milk
● If empty, fill with water
● Switch kettle on
Get cupGet teabag
● Get cup
● Get teabag and put in cup
● Get milk
● Get sugar
● Get spoon
● Check if kettle has boiled
● If boiled, pour water in cup. If not, wait
● If milk wanted, add milk
● If sugar wanted, add sugar
● Stir
● Remove teabag
●
Add Sugar
Take the tea bag End
Get a cup Boil the water on the
kettle Stir it Done
Put the cup to the
Put water on the
Put a tea bag Drink it sink
kettle
Extension: House Alarm Flowchart
Think about how a simple house
security system works.
After the alarm is switched on, it
uses sensors to constantly check
if there is movement in a room.
Check for movement
Start No movement
Turn on alarm Movement detected Alarm switched off
End
If there is movement, it rings a
bell until the alarm is switched off.
Decompose the problem
then construct a flowchart to
show the algorithm. Use
correct shapes, lines and
text labels.
