Lesson 3: What is an Algorithm?

In this lesson, students explore the concept of algorithms as a set of steps or rules to solve problems.
The analogy of an algorithm being similar to a recipe is introduced, with ingredients as input,
cooking steps as the process, and a delicious treat as the output, illustrated using the example of
making masala tea. Students brainstorm other real-life algorithms, such as math procedures or
daily routines. The systematic nature of computer algorithms is highlighted, emphasizing the
precision required in programming. A hands-on activity has groups writing and testing algorithms
to guide the teacher from one location to another, simulating how computers follow instructions.
The lesson concludes with a reflection on the variability of algorithms in achieving similar goals.
Supplementary activities include puzzles, riddles, tic-tac-toe, and a sorting game to reinforce
algorithmic thinking.
What's included?
Slides Videos Activities quiz

Learning Objectives:
 Understand and articulate the concept of an algorithm as a set of steps or rules designed to
solve a problem or achieve a specific goal.
 Identify the three main parts of an algorithm - input, steps to change the input, and output
- recognizing their role in the problem-solving process.
 Draw parallels between algorithms and recipes, conceptualizing ingredients as input,
cooking steps as the process to change input, and the resulting dish as the output.
 Utilize an example algorithm for making masala tea to illustrate inputs, process steps, and
the desired output.
 Explore and provide examples of algorithms in various contexts, such as math procedures,
recipes, or classroom routines.
 Grasp the systematic nature of computer algorithms, acknowledging their specificity in
programming and how they are designed to accomplish tasks.
 Engage in a hands-on activity where students collaborate in groups to formulate and test
algorithms for a real-world scenario, simulating the precision required in computer
programming.
 Reflect on the different algorithms created by groups, considering their effectiveness in
achieving the common goal and understanding that diverse algorithms can yield similar
outcomes.
 Recognize the ubiquity of algorithms in everyday activities and processes, emphasizing
their role in problem-solving and achieving specific objectives.