Understanding Algorithms

Grade Level: 6th Grade

Subject: Technology
Duration: 40 minutes
Curriculum Area: ISTE Standards for Students - Computational Thinker (6a & 6b)

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Objectives

By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:

1. Define what an algorithm is in simple terms, including its purpose and everyday applications.
2. Identify and design a basic step-by-step algorithm within a real-world context.
3. Recognize the importance of sequencing, precision, and problem-solving in algorithm development.

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Materials Required

• Whiteboard or digital board
• Markers
• Index cards (1 per student)
• Small puzzle (optional: LEGO blocks, jigsaw, etc.)
• Digital devices (tablets/laptops) for pair work (if available)
• Pre-printed "Steps to Make a Sandwich" cards (used in an interactive exercise)
• Timer or stopwatch

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Lesson Plan Breakdown

1. Introduction to Algorithms (10 minutes)

Warm-Up Activity (3 minutes):

• Write this question on the board: "What is the first thing you do when you wake up?"
• Ask students to silently think of their answers for 15 seconds. Explain they just created a step in their own “morning routine” algorithm.
• Call on 3-5 students to share their answers. Afterward, point out how routines include step-by-step actions, much like algorithms.

Brief Explanation (7 minutes):

• Ask: "Does anyone know what an algorithm is?" Allow 2-3 students to guess.
• Explain: “An algorithm is a list of steps we follow to solve a problem or complete a task. It can be as simple as brushing your teeth or as complex as designing a video game.”
• Use relatable examples like:
  • Making a PB&J sandwich (focus on detailed steps).
  • Giving directions to a friend’s house.
  • Instructions that robots, apps, or websites follow.

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2. Interactive Activity - Algorithm in Action (15 minutes)

Part 1: Group Sandwich Algorithm (5 minutes)

• Split students into three small groups (4 students each).
• Provide each group with pre-printed "Steps to Make a Sandwich" cards. Include some misleading or incorrect steps, such as “Put the bread on top of the jar of peanut butter.”
• Task: Groups must arrange the cards in the correct order.
• After 5 minutes, review as a class. Ask: "What happened when the cards weren't in the right order?" Highlight the importance of sequencing in algorithms.

Part 2: Create Your Own Algorithm (10 minutes)

• Provide students with index cards and markers.
• Tell them to each come up with an everyday task and break it into a step-by-step algorithm (e.g., tying their shoes, washing a dog, doing homework).
• Challenge: “Your steps must be so clear a robot could follow them and get it right every time.”
• Allow 5 minutes to write their steps individually.
• Pair students to swap cards and act as a "robot" testing their partner's steps. (For example, if Step 1 says, “Pick up the shoelace,” the "robot" only does that – no assumptions allowed.)
• Discuss: What was hard about explaining steps clearly?

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3. Connecting Algorithms to Technology (10 minutes)

Discussion:

• Ask: “Where else do we see algorithms in our lives?”
• Lead them to answers like:
  • How Google finds search results.
  • Suggestions for videos on YouTube.
  • Character actions in video games.
• Explain: "All of these rely on algorithms to work."
• Big Idea Takeaway: Algorithms are behind much of the technology we use every day.

Optional Extension/Challenge:

• For students who finish early or enjoy a challenge, introduce a simple coding activity (pseudo-code) by giving them a problem like: “Write an algorithm for a robot vacuum to clean your living room.”

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4. Wrap-Up and Reflection (5 minutes)

• Revisit the key question: "What is an algorithm?"
• Ask for 2-3 volunteers to share what they wrote as their algorithm for their chosen task.
• Exit Ticket: Give each student a sticky note and ask:
  • “Write down one thing you now know about algorithms and one question you still have.”
  • Collect their sticky notes as feedback for future lessons.

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Teaching Tips

• Use humor to keep engagement high. For example, when testing algorithms, follow “funny errors” like jumping out of sequence literally without correcting them until students notice.
• Encourage precision by pointing out how unclear directions can cause chaos (e.g., the PB&J cards).
• Relate the lesson to students’ interests (e.g., coding a game algorithm, TikTok “For You” page).

Assessment

• Observation during activities: Are students engaging, sequencing, and testing logical algorithms?
• Exit ticket responses to gauge understanding and lingering questions.

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Homework/Future Learning

• At home, challenge students to teach a family member what an algorithm is and create one together for making a snack or solving a simple task.

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Enjoy watching your students light up as they realize how algorithms are already part of their everyday lives! This lesson blends logic, creativity, and technology seamlessly.