Lesson 1.

OPEN YOUR CT Workbook

STARTER

With the person next to you discuss, research and find a definition of the term 'computer program'.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

• You will learn to:
• Describe the term computer program
• Describe the skills needed to be a programmer
• Describe the term algorithm
• Write a simple algorithm for making a jam butty

DEFINITION OF COMPUTER PROGRAM

Let's look at the following videos.  Listen carefully and jot down in your learning blog two things that you have learned about programming.

The following video describes what a computer program is:

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=r9JlFCJy-Vo

Thevfollowing video talks about the skills needed to be a programmer:

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=gTQpvKrGpSw

ALGORITHMS

Before you can program well you need to plan what you are going to do.  An algorithm is a set of step by step instructions which covers every eventuality in order to reach a solution or a goal in the quickest and most effective way.  A computer program turns the algorithm into a set of instructions which the computer will understand.

Look at the following:

Penalty Kick Algorithm

Look at the following algorithm for taking a penalty kick.  Try to work out what is wrong with it.  Remember the objective of a penalty kick is obviously to score a goal.

1. Start

2. Place football on penalty spot

3. Kick ball

4. End

TASK 1

In pairs write an algorithm for taking a penalty kick which will result in a goal being scored.

Lift Algorithm

Look at the following algorithm and work out why this one achieves all it's objectives efficiently and effectively:

1. Start

2. Wait until doors are closed

3. Wait until the floor button is pressed

  If button pressed is > than current floor

     Move lift upwards

  If button pressed is < than current floor

     Move lift downwards

4. When current floor = button pressed

5.  Open doors

6. End

Cup of Tea Algorithm

TASK: Now write an algorithm for making a jam butty - You will need it next lesson.  Make sure that you use the following ingredients:

• Bread
• Jam
• Butter

HOMEWORK

MAKE SURE THAT YOU FINISH THE JAM BUTTY ALGORITHM

FINAL TASK FOR TODAY'S LESSON

In your CT Wokbook  write down three things that you have learnt today.

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