Intro To Algorithms Lesson
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i.isacIntro To Algorithms Lesson
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i.isacIntroduction to Algorithms &
Everyday Examples
IBDP Digital Society – Algorithms Unit
Lesson Duration: 75 minutes
Connect – Starter Activity
• Question: What’s the first thing you do when
you wake up?
• Task: Write down your morning routine as
steps.
• Differentiation:
• - Support: Provide routine word bank.
• - Stretch: Add decision points (if raining →
take umbrella).
What is an Algorithm?
• Definition: A step-by-step set of instructions to
solve a problem or complete a task.
• Examples:
• - Everyday: Recipe for pasta
• - Digital: Google Search
Activate – Video & Discussion
• Watch: BBC Bitesize – What is an Algorithm?
(YouTube link)
• Discussion: Where do we see algorithms in
daily life?
• Brainstorm: Build a 'Wall of Algorithms'
(student responses).
Demonstrate – Key Features
• Algorithms must be:
• - Step-by-step
• - Finite (must end)
• - Precise
• - Represented as pseudocode/flowcharts
• Example: Flowchart for making a cup of tea
• Extension: Discuss efficiency – which steps
waste time?
Group Challenge – Write Your Own
Algorithm
• Instructions:
• - Task A (Support): Brushing teeth / making a
sandwich
• - Task B (Stretch): Organising a playlist /
finding shortest route in school
• Differentiation:
• - Support: Use scaffolds and flowchart
templates
Present & Discuss
• Groups present their algorithms.
• Class prompts:
• - Which is clearer?
• - Which is more efficient?
Apply – Case Study
• Scenario: TikTok/YouTube Recommendation
Algorithm
• Pair Task:
• - What steps might it follow to decide what to
show you?
• - Pros: Personalisation, time saved
• - Cons: Bias, filter bubbles, data privacy
Review – Exit Ticket
• Write in one sentence: What is an algorithm?
• Challenge: Give one everyday example AND
one digital example.
Homework / Extension
• Research one algorithm used in daily life (e.g.,
Spotify recommendations, Google Maps,
Amazon suggestions).
• Write:
• 1. What problem does it solve?
• 2. What social/ethical issues does it raise?
