
Q5 Algorithm: Introduction
Introduction
In this Quest, you will learn what an algorithm is by completing a card sorting activity from Code.org. You will have learned all the steps to tackle and complete your complex problem. This Quest also includes a Digital Breakout Challenge with five locks to open that your teacher may have you complete.
Algorithms are the final stage of computational thinking. Algorithms are a way to develop a step-by-step solution to a problem or the rules to follow to solve a problem.
learning objectives
I can:
- Create an algorithm for a complex problem.
Play the short video linked below to learn about algorithms. Think about what you already know or what might be new learning from the video.
Unplugged - Real-Life Algorithms: Planting a Seed
Direct link (1:57 min.)
Competencies & Standards
MITECS Michigan Integrated Technology Competencies for Students, and
1. Empowered Learner
d. Understand the fundamental concepts of technology operations, demonstrate the ability to choose, use, and troubleshoot current technologies, and transfer their knowledge to explore emerging technologies.
4. Innovative Designer
d. Exhibit a tolerance for ambiguity, perseverance, and the capacity to work with open-ended problems.
5. Computational Thinker
a. Students formulate problem definitions suited for technology-assisted methods such as data analysis, abstract models, and algorithmic thinking in exploring and finding solutions.
b. Collect data or identify relevant data sets.
c. Break problems into parts, extract key information, and develop descriptive models to understand complex systems or facilitate problem-solving.
d. Understand how automation works and use algorithmic thinking to develop a sequence of steps to create and test automated solutions.
6. Creative Communicator
c. Communicate complex ideas clearly and effectively by creating or using a variety of digital objects such as visualizations, models, or simulations.
Websites and Documents
Websites
Videos from Outside Sources
- BrainPop Computer Science Video
- Computational Thinking: Algorithm Design YouTube
- Computer Programming Video
- Khan Academy What is an Algorithm? Video
- Unplugged - Real-Life Algorithms: Planting a Seed YouTube
21t4s Videos
- None
21t4s Documents & Quizzes
21t4s Digital Breakout Challenge
What is a Digital Breakout?
A Digital Breakout may also be called a Digital Escape Room.
This is a web-based, game-like activity where students use clues to unlock a series of puzzles or activities to solve a challenge (or to escape a digital room).
Students frequently work together, (conference, or chat) as they work to locate and solve clues.
For additional help to solve a breakout view this short video (3:44).