DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES - NZ CURRICULUM
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Algorithms

An algorithm is a set of rules, steps or instructions to accomplish a task. Have a look at the videos below for more information. Start introducing the term algorithm early e.g. "We're going to write a set of instructions or algorithm..." or "Can you work out what the rule or algorithm might be for this pattern?".
Computers use algorithms but you don't necessarily need a computer to write or carry out an algorithm. 
Many digital technologies can make performing an algorithm faster and easier.  Algorithms are used to write
computer programs, they tell the computer what to do. 
Algorithms in Plain English - Vimeo video

Algorithm Examples
Library Book Sorting Algorithms
Knitting Patterns - an Algorithm
Key Word Search

Google Search algorithms
Netflix algorithms
Facebook algorithms

Google Arts & Culture App - Degrees of Separation and Selfie are examples of algorithms in action.
NZ Maths - Position & orientation activities - opportunities for using algorithms.
Searching Algorithms


Flowcharts
Algorithms can also be represented as flowcharts
See
 
here for more examples.

Picture
tinyurl.com/EuclidFlowchartJ
Picture
Pseudo Code
When students start writing algorithms and programs they will often use pseudo code where instructions are written for a human to understand. These can be useful when designing programs to work out the required steps before conversion into a programming language.
Examples of pseudo code:
  • C.T. P.O. 1 Exemplar 1: Collecting Pollen
  • C.T. P.O. 2 Exemplar 3: Getting to the Hive​
  • C.T. P.O. 2 Exemplar 4: How Māui Slowed the Sun

Resources:
Algorithms infographic - based on the Australian curriculum but still useful.
​Pixar in A Box - a collaboration between Pixar and the Khan Academy - 
teaches maths, science (including use of algorithms) and coding for Film Animation. Activities for all ages but most around age 8 to  adult.
​BBC - Algorithms activities for juniors
CS Field Guide - Algorithms

BarefootCAS has tutorials based on the English CS curriculum. Register to view the sample resources such as this one on Algorithms.
How to Explain Algorithms to Kids 
BBC Bitesize: What is an Algorithm?
​Step by Step from the Connected Series
​
3 Algorithm Lessons
Picture
2021
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  • Home
    • Implementation
    • Digital Apps & Devices >
      • Digital Devices
    • NCEA Resources
    • Definitions >
      • Programming definitions
    • Curriculum
    • Blog
  • Why?
  • Progress Outcomes
  • Computational Thinking
    • Algorithms
    • Data Representation >
      • Binary Number Videos
      • Flowcharts >
        • Choose Your Own Adventure
  • D.D.D.O.
    • Create with Coding & Robots
    • Design Thinking
    • Maker Spaces
  • Authentic Contexts
    • Authentic Maths Contexts
    • Storybooks
  • Humans & Computers
    • Assistive Technologies
    • AR and VR
    • Ethical Issues >
      • 3 Laws of Robotics
      • A.I.
  • Programming
    • Micro Controllers & Computers >
      • Arduino
      • Makey Makey
      • Micro::bit >
        • Micro:bit and Scratch
        • Edtech Summit 2019
      • Raspberry Pi
    • Coding Apps & Sites >
      • Scratch
      • Scratch Jr
    • Creating Apps
    • Unplugged CT >
      • Unplugged Activities
    • HTML/CSS
    • Robots & Drones >
      • Edison
      • Beebots, Bluebots & Probots
    • Wearables