Computer Science

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

Tackling a project using computational thinking

Computational thinking

Comparing algorithms to computer programs

Representing algorithms using flowcharts

Representing algorithms using pseudocode

Tracing algorithms

Data structures

Algorithmic bias

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

to take something apart and understand its pieces

analysing and solving problems systematically

What is computational thinking primarily used for?

breaking down a problem into smaller subproblems

creating logical, step-by-step instructions

choosing the most suitable method to solve the problem

What is the designer of an algorithm responsible for?

to break down a problem into smaller subproblems

yes, but only for solving computer-related problems

no, it is only used for debugging programs

no, it can be applied to problems that don’t involve coding

Does computational thinking always require writing code?

a systematic approach to solving problems

What is the main goal of computational thinking?

What is a diagram that uses symbols to visually represent the logic and flow of an algorithm?

P{{}} is a way to outline an algorithm using plain language that can be understood without programming knowledge?

The algorithm will become more efficient.

What can happen if poor-quality data is used in an algorithm?

to reduce unfair or discriminatory outcomes

Why is it important to understand algorithmic bias?

Tackling a project using computational thinking

Lesson outcome