Decomposing means breaking a problem down into smaller pieces. A big job is made easier by breaking it down into smaller jobs.
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It might seem like a big job to make a pizza, but to make it easier we break it down into smaller jobs.
1) Make the crust
2) Make the sauce
3) Gather toppings
4) Assemble Pizza
An algorithm is a set of step by step instructions that solve a problem. In order for a computer to understand your algorithm your instructions need to be very clear and detailed. Computers only think algorithmically. Unlike humans they cannot rely on previous knowledge to solve a new problem. Computers simply execute instructions created by humans.
Algorithm example activity... Follow the instructions below.
1) In the center at the top of your paper draw a circle with roughly a 2 inch diameter
2) Inside that circle draw a smaller circle with roughly a 1-1/2 inch diameter
3) Draw a sideways letter "M" that touches at the bottom of the M to the left side of the outer circle.
4) Inside the second circle draw a third circle with roughly 1/2 inch diameter that touches the right side of second circle.
5) Color in the third circle.
Program a KEVA robot to build a 2D shape
Rules:
All blocks will be placed flat side on the table.
Once a KEVA robot has placed a block (taken their hand off of it) it cannot be moved.
1) The robot will turn away from the programmer.
2) The programmer will quickly construct a 2D shape using at least 8 KEVA planks.
3) The programmer will then give the correct number of planks to the the robot and using verbal instructions only try to "program" them to recreate the exact shape.
Part 1:
1) Break into 2 groups.
2) One person in each group will be the "robot".
3) The other group members will use the instruction cards to get the "robot" from Starting Point A to Ending Point B.
Part 2:
1) Use tables or chairs to create some obstacles in your path.
2) Rewrite your instructions to get the "robot" through the path again.