Ten-term algorithm vocabulary set for grades 3-8¶

Element · All elements
Evidence · no claims cited

Description¶

The deck specifies a vocabulary set labeled "Words to teach" for algorithm lessons. It defines "Algorithm - A list of steps to finish a task", "Bug - Part of a program that does not work correctly", "Debugging - Finding and fixing problems in an algorithm or program", "Loop - The action of doing something over and over again", and "Program - An algorithm that has been coded into something that can be run by a machine". It adds decomposition, abstraction, sequencing, and pattern recognition definitions.

Design Implications¶

Context¶

Requirements¶

• Vocabulary is intended to be taught explicitly at the start of algorithm lessons, matching the session plan's introduction and vocabulary segment

Constraints¶

Target Learners¶

• Students in grades 3-8

Target Learning Goals¶

• Learning core computational thinking vocabulary including decomposition, abstraction, sequencing, and pattern recognition

Related Elements¶

• Code.org CS Fundamentals unplugged lessons: Dice Race, My Robotic Friends, Paper Planes, Plant a Seed, Tangrams
• Flowcharts as a representation for planning algorithms
• CT Boosters: 30-minute algorithmic-thinking professional learning sessions for grades 3-8

Examples¶

-

Key Sources¶

• Computational Thinking Boosters: Algorithmic Thinking 3-8. (2021). Presentation dated Jan. 12, 2021, supported by NSF grant award #1923314. https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=1923314