Full lesson	Create for a teacher a set of content for giving a lesson, beginning with the lesson plan. Each new block of materials must begin with an H1 heading (other subheaders must be H2, H3, etc). When you describe required pictures, write those descriptions in curly brackets, for example: {A picture of a triangle}
Which subject	Computer science
What topic	algorithms
What length (min)	30
What age group	Year or Grade 8
Class size	20
What curriculum
Include full script
Check previous homework
Ask some students to presents their homework
Add a physical break
Add group activities
Include homework
Show correct answers
Prepare slide templates
Number of slides	5
Create fill-in cards for students
Create creative backup tasks for unexpected moments

Lesson plan

Lesson Plan: Algorithms

Topic

Algorithms

Grade/Age Group

Grade 8

Subject

Computer Science

Duration

30 minutes

Number of Students

20

Objectives

• Understand the definition of an algorithm.
• Identify the components of an algorithm.
• Develop a simple algorithm for a specific task.
• Demonstrate the ability to write algorithms using pseudocode.
• Complete assigned homework that reinforces lesson concepts.

Materials

• Whiteboard and markers
• Handouts with algorithm definitions and examples
• Computers or tablets with access to coding software (if applicable)
• Projector for displaying slides

National Curriculum Alignment

This lesson aligns with the following standards from the Computer Science curriculum:

• Understand and apply the principles of algorithms and problem-solving.
• Use computational thinking to solve problems.

Lesson Structure

Step Number	Step Title	Length (minutes)	Details
1	Introduction to Algorithms	5	Briefly introduce the concept of algorithms. Ask students what they know about algorithms. Discuss their importance in computer science.
2	Components of an Algorithm	5	Present key components: input, process, output. Use examples to illustrate each component's role within an algorithm.
3	Writing Simple Algorithms	10	Guide students through writing a simple algorithm using pseudocode. Provide a common example (like making a sandwich) and work through it together.
4	Hands-On Activity	5	In pairs, have students create their own algorithms for a task (e.g., a daily routine). Share a few examples with the class.
5	Homework Assignment	5	Explain the homework task that reinforces the lesson content. Provide handouts with guidelines and expectations. Check and collect homework without presentations.

Conclusion

• Recap the key points discussed in the lesson.
• Encourage students to think about algorithms in their daily lives and upcoming lessons.
• Answer any final questions from students before the end of the lesson.

Homework

• Assign an individual homework task related to algorithms. Provide clear instructions and criteria for completion, ensuring students understand the expectations.

By using this structured lesson plan, the teacher will effectively introduce and engage students with the concept of algorithms, fostering an environment of understanding and collaboration in computer science.

Lesson script

Introduction to Algorithms

"Good morning, class! Today, we are diving into an interesting topic in computer science: algorithms. Can anyone tell me what they think an algorithm is? (Pause for responses.)

Great! An algorithm is essentially a step-by-step procedure or formula for solving a problem. They are really important in computer science, as they help us understand how to structure our code and solve various challenges. Throughout our lesson today, we’ll be exploring algorithms in more detail, how they work, and even create our own."

Components of an Algorithm

"Now that we know what an algorithm is, let’s talk about its components. There are three main parts: input, process, and output.

1. Input: This is the information we put into the algorithm.
2. Process: This refers to the steps the algorithm takes to manipulate the input data.
3. Output: Finally, this is what we get out of the algorithm after it has finished processing the input.

To help illustrate these components, let’s consider an example. If we want to create an algorithm to calculate the area of a rectangle, our input would be the rectangle's length and width, the process would be multiplying these two values together, and the output would be the area itself. Any questions?"

Writing Simple Algorithms

"Next, let’s write a simple algorithm together using pseudocode. Pseudocode is a way to express an algorithm using a plain language structure that resembles programming languages but is easier to read.

Let's take a common task: ‘Making a sandwich.’ I’ll guide you through it step by step.

1. Start.
2. Gather ingredients: bread, cheese, ham, and lettuce.
3. Take two slices of bread.
4. Place the cheese on one slice.
5. Add ham on top of the cheese.
6. Add lettuce on top of the ham.
7. Cover with the second slice of bread.
8. Cut the sandwich in half.
9. Serve.
10. End.

Now, who can tell me what we did here? (Pause for responses.) Yes, we outlined the steps clearly! Now it's your turn to try this on your own."

Hands-On Activity

"In pairs, I want you to create your own algorithm for a simple task. It could be something like getting ready in the morning, walking a dog, or even playing a game. Remember to clearly define your input, process, and output.

You’ll have about 5 minutes to work on this. Once you're done, I’ll ask a few pairs to share their algorithms with the class. Let's get started!"

Homework Assignment

"Alright, as we wrap up our lesson, I want to assign you some homework. For this task, you will need to write an algorithm for a specific real-life process – for instance, how to complete a homework assignment or go through your evening routine.

Your algorithm should include at least five steps and be written in pseudocode format. I’ll be passing out handouts with the guidelines and expectations for your assignment.

Make sure to complete this at home and be prepared to discuss it in our next class."

Conclusion

"To conclude today’s lesson, let’s recap what we’ve learned. We started by defining algorithms and discussing their importance in computer science. We then looked at the components of algorithms—input, process, and output—before moving on to write our own algorithm using pseudocode. Finally, we crafted some fun algorithms in pairs and discussed our homework.

Always remember, algorithms are all around us, from the apps we use to the tasks we perform daily! Does anyone have any final questions before we finish? (Pause for questions.)

Great job today, everyone! I’m excited to see your homework and how you apply algorithms to your everyday life."

Homework

1. Define an algorithm in your own words. Why are algorithms important in computer science?

2. Identify and label the three main components of an algorithm using the example of calculating the area of a rectangle. What would be the input, process, and output?

3. Write a simple pseudocode algorithm for the task of "Brushing your teeth". Be sure to clearly outline at least five steps and specify the input, process, and output.

4. In pairs, you created an algorithm during class. Discuss the strengths and weaknesses of your algorithm with your partner. What did you learn from this discussion?

5. Think of a common household activity (e.g., cleaning your room, preparing a meal, etc.). Write an algorithm in pseudocode format for this task. Include at least five steps.

6. Choose one of the algorithms you’ve written for homework. How would you explain this algorithm to someone who knows nothing about computer science? What analogy or visual might help them understand?

7. Reflect on the importance of clarity in algorithms. Why do you think it is crucial for algorithms to be clear and easy to follow? Provide examples from your own algorithms to support your response.