Algorithms (1/2)
Computing: Year 5 & 6 National Curriculum, topic 3.1.3
Algorithms
Definition
- An algorithm is the steps and rules that are followed when completing a process.
- The main actions in an algorithm are sequence, selection and repetition.
Sequence
- The sequence is the order of the steps.
- E.g. the toppings cannot be put on the cakes until they are cooked.
Selection
- Selection is a yes/no choice.
- A yes/no choice can be thought of as an ‘if ... then’ instruction.
- E.g. should the cakes be taken out of the oven?
- If an inserted knife comes out clean, then yes.
- If an inserted knife comes out dirty, then no.
Repetition
- Repetition means doing the same step over again.
Test yourself on Algorithms (1/2)
Which main action in an algorithm can be represented by an 'if ... then' instruction?
What main action in an algorithm describes the order of the steps?