Decomposing Tasks

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Computational Thinking with Cupcakes

Decomposing is a method used in computational thinking. It means breaking a big task into smaller tasks.

Decomposing: example

Imagine telling your friends how to make cupcakes for a party.
If you just say, ‘make the cupcakes’, they might get confused.
Everyone might do it differently

Decomposing gives the steps

There are different parts to making cupcakes:
- Make the batter.
- Make the icing.
- Bake the cakes.
- Add the toppings.
Each of these tasks can be decomposed into logical steps.

Steps

The steps must be clear.
The steps must be in the right order.
The steps must be clear and repeatable so you get the same results every time.
The steps and rules that are followed are called an algorithm.

Algorithms

Think of an algorithm like the steps in the recipe for the cupcakes.

1Using Computers

1.1Computers as a Tool

1.1.1Uses of Computers

1.1.2More Uses of Computers

1.1.3Advantages of Information Technology

1.1.4More Advantages of Information Technology

1.2Data

1.2.1Storing Data

1.2.2Databases

1.2.3Sorting & Filtering Data

1.2.4Interrogating Data

1.3Plagiarism & Illegal Sharing

1.3.1Plagiarism

1.3.2Copyrighted Content

2Networks & the World Wide Web

2.1Networks

2.1.1Parts of Networks

2.1.2The Internet

2.1.3The World Wide Web

2.2Searching Online

2.2.1Searching the World Wide Web

2.2.2Searching Tips

2.2.3Reliable Information

2.3Protecting Yourself Online

2.3.1Your Digital Footprint

2.3.2Being Safe

2.3.3Online Safety

2.3.4Viruses

2.3.5Malware

2.3.6People Online

2.3.7Your Feelings

2.3.8Getting Help

3Computational Thinking

3.1Computational Thinking

3.1.1Computational Thinking

3.1.2Decomposing Tasks

3.1.3Algorithms (1/2)

3.1.4Algorithms (2/2)

3.1.5Logical Reasoning & Debugging

4Computer Languages

4.1Coding

4.1.1Code

4.1.2Programs

4.1.3Writing Programs

4.1.4Writing Your Own Program: Input, Outputs, Design

4.1.5Turning an Algorithm into an App (1/2)

4.1.6Turning an Algorithm into an App (2/2)

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