Introduction
In this Quest, you will work to understand what an algorithm is by completing a card sorting activity from Code.org. You will have learned all the steps to tackle and complete your complex problem. This Quest also includes a Digital Breakout Challenge with five locks to open that your teacher may have you complete.
Algorithms are the final stage of computational thinking. Algorithms are a way to develop a step-by-step solution to the problem, or the rules to follow to solve the problem.
learning objectives
I can:
- Create an algorithm for a complex problem.
Play the short video linked below to learn about algorithms. Think about what you already know or what might be new learning from the video.
Unplugged - Real-Life Algorithms: Planting a Seed (1:57 min.)
Competencies & Standards
MITECS Michigan Integrated Technology Competencies for Students, and
1. Empowered Learner
d. Understand the fundamental concepts of technology operations, demonstrate the ability to choose, use and troubleshoot current technologies and are able to transfer their knowledge to explore emerging technologies
4. Innovative Designer
d. Exhibit a tolerance for ambiguity, perseverance and the capacity to work with open-ended problems
5. Computational Thinker
a. formulate problem definitions suited for technology-assisted methods such as data analysis, abstract models and algorithmic thinking in exploring and finding solutions
b. collect data or identify relevant data sets, use digital tools to analyze them, and represent data in various ways to facilitate problem-solving and decision-making
c. break problems into component parts, extract key information, and develop descriptive models to understand complex systems or facilitate problem-solving
d. understand how automation works and use algorithmic thinking to develop a sequence of steps to create and test automated solutions
6. Creative Communicator
c. Communicate complex ideas clearly and effectively by creating or using a variety of digital objects such as visualizations, models or simulations
Websites and Documents
Websites
Videos from Outside Sources
- BrainPop Computer Science Video
- Computational Thinking: Algorithm Design YouTube
- Computer Programming Video
- Khan Academy What is an Algorithm? Video
- Unplugged - Real-Life Algorithms: Planting a Seed YouTube
21t4s Videos
21t4s Documents & Quizzes
21t4s Digital Breakout Challenge
What is a Digital Breakout?
A Digital Breakout may also be called a Digital Escape Room.
This is a web-based, game-like activity where students use clues to unlock a series of puzzles or activities to solve a challenge (or to escape a digital room).
Students frequently work together, (conference, or chat) as they work to locate and solve clues.
For additional help to solve a breakout view this short video (3:44).