Computer Science

an algorithm that searches for an item in a list of items by systematically examining each item, one after another

this scenario occurs when the item you are looking for results in the smallest possible number of steps

this scenario takes place when the item you are looking for results in the greatest possible number of steps

Linear search

In this unit pupils will have opportunities to analyse, interpret, modify, and implement a range of searching and sorting algorithms. They will have the opportunity to compare the features and efficiency of these algorithms and make suggestions about the most suitable algorithm for a given task.

Searching and sorting algorithms

an algorithm that skips every other item in a list

an algorithm that sorts a list before searching

an algorithm that only works with numbers

an algorithm that searches for an item by examining each item one by one

any type of data, including numbers and strings

What type of data can a linear search be used on?

The linear search stops after checking a few items.

The linear search checks every item in the list.

The linear search skips to the last item immediately.

What happens if the item being searched for is not in the list?

It requires fewer steps than other algorithms.

What is the main advantage of a linear search?

Given the list: [apple, banana, cherry, grape, orange], how many items would need to be searched in the worst-case scenario to confirm if "fig" is in the list using a linear search?

a list where items are arranged in a specific sequence

Which of these is an example of an unordered list?

search for the chapter title in the index

look for the page number next to the chapter title

How would you find a chapter in a book using the table of contents?

to list important topics and their page numbers

What is the main purpose of an index in a book?

a list of colours written in no particular order

Which of these would be easiest to search through?

How many items would you need to check to confirm that an item is not in an unordered list?

Starter Quiz