Speaking Code: Algorithms
Lesson 2 (of 7)

This is the second of seven lessons.

Learners will focus on learning the coding concepts ‘algorithms’ and ‘sequences’. This lesson includes a computer activity and an unplugged activity. Educators can do both activities or choose one of the activities.

Prerequisites

The educator should have some knowledge of coding concepts and experience with Scratch. Completing the individual activities ahead of time would be helpful as you may have to model how to complete activities. There is an option to see the solution for each activity.

Introduction

Ask: What is a sequence/algorithm?

Play ‘Flocabulary - Coding Algorithms’.
Note: Only 40 seconds of this video shows. Educators can sign up for a free trial of Flocabulary to watch the rest.

Plugged-in Activity

45 minutes

Complete this activity.

Learners can work independently or in pairs (this helps with problem-solving!) to complete the activity tasks. The educator could model the tasks by displaying the activity on a Smart TV. Review how to delete blocks (click delete) and interchange left and right. Have learners click on ‘show code’ button to see the actual code that computer programmers use.

Unplugged Activity

15-20 minutes

Ask learners to try and write a sequence/algorithm for getting ready for school, how to make a sandwich or how to shoot a basketball, etc. Have them compare answers with a classmate. As an extension, have one partner be the coder and the other be the program. On paper, the coder will develop a program on how to make a sandwich. The coder will tell the program what to do one task at a time. For example:

Coder - “Step 1: Open the cupboard.”
Program - pretends to open the cupboard
Coder - “Step 2: “Get the bread.”
Program - pretends to get the bread

Online activities include a multiple choice and matching assessment that learners must answer before completing the activity level.

Make anecdotal notes of learners who are struggling to complete tasks. Also, make notes of learners who are completing tasks quickly and/or supporting their peers.

For unplugged activity, assess algorithm steps.

Coding

• code.org Artist Sequence
• code.org Real-Life Algorithms: Paper Planes
• code.org CS Fundamentals Unplugged

English

• Learners can write another algorithm in their journal (see unplugged activity in lesson)
• For this lesson series, learners could use a digital or regular journal to include the coding vocabulary taught.

Math & Science

• Make connections to algorithms and steps in a math equation and/or recent science experiments done in class.

Data (AI & Machine Learning)

• Introduce learners to the concept of Machine Learning and how computers use algorithms.
  • What is Machine Learning? by OxfordSparks (4 min)
  • How Machines Learn by CGP Grey (8 min)
• Explore Machine Learning for Kids.
  • Review some of the lessons from the site (could be used for fast finishers or learners who need an extra challenge).

What is a Sequence/Algorithm? (Flocabulary)
https://www.flocabulary.com/unit/coding-algorithms/

Hour of Code Activity
https://studio.code.org/s/course2/stage/3/puzzle/1

code.org: Real-Life Algorithms: Paper Planes
https://studio.code.org/s/course2/stage/2/puzzle/1

code.org Unplugged Activities
https://code.org/curriculum/unplugged

code.org Artist Sequence
https://studio.code.org/s/course2/stage/4/puzzle/1

What is Machine Learning? by OxfordSparks
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f_uwKZIAeM0

How Machines Learn by CGP Grey
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R9OHn5ZF4Uo&feature=youtu.be

Machine Learning for Kids
https://machinelearningforkids.co.uk/

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