How it works
An algorithm is a list of clear steps, in order, that gets a job done.
Each step must be small enough for a robot to follow, with one clear job on each card.
If the order changes, the job may not get done.
We use algorithms every day: recipes, brushing teeth, the way to school, planting seeds.
Worked examples
Not clear enough
- Maya says, make me a sandwich.
- Bo does exactly what he heard, so the whole jar goes on the bread.
- Make a sandwich is not enough for a robot.
Small steps in order
- Maya writes four cards: take two slices of bread, take the lid off the jam, spread jam on one slice, and press the slices together.
- Bo follows them one at a time.
- This time the sandwich is perfect.