Computer Science

a structured approach to solving problems

to focus on the important parts of a problem and ignore irrelevant details

breaking down a problem into smaller parts to make the task more manageable

to consider the solution to a problem as a series of logical, step-by-step instructions

Computational thinking

Comparing algorithms to computer programs

Representing algorithms using flowcharts

Representing algorithms using pseudocode

Tracing algorithms

Data structures

Algorithmic bias

Tackling a project using computational thinking

In this unit pupils will discover the computational thinking techniques; decomposition, abstraction and algorithmic thinking. They will reflect on differences between algorithms and computer programs and explore how algorithms can be represented. Pupils will explore the impact of algorithmic bias.

Algorithms

a set of step-by-step instructions to solve a problem

a way of implementing an algorithm by writing it in a language that a computer can use

a system of rules that determine the flow of instructions

a visual representation of an algorithm or program

a sign, shape or object that is used to represent something else

to make one thing the same as others of that type

a way of expressing an algorithm that is independent of a specific programming language

to convert something from one form to another, making it understandable or usable in a different context

a tool used to track the values of variables and the flow of execution in an algorithm or program, step by step

a mistake or unexpected behaviour in a program that prevents it from working correctly

an operation that gives you the remainder when one number is divided by another

a way of organising and storing data in a computer

something made of various parts or elements

a data structure where the size and memory allocation can change as a program runs

a data structure with a fixed size and memory allocation that is set before a program runs

to disproportionately favour one side, group, or outcome over others

to make or show an unjust or prejudicial distinction between different categories of people

to take something apart, look closely at its pieces, and then put the information back together in a way that makes sense

Algorithms

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These lessons were made for home learning during the pandemic.