This term, in Computing, Year two have been learning all about algorithms. They have worked with beebots to create, predict and test different algorithms. Did you know that an algorithm is a specific set of instructions that can be followed by a computer to achieve a task?
First, the children learnt that computers cannot think for themselves, they can only follow instructions they have been given. To practise giving precise instructions, the children worked in pairs to tell a partner how to draw a simple shape. They described what to do without looking at what their partner was drawing and tried hard to create the same images. The boys and girls also had a go at pretending to be a robot and following instructions from their classmates to move to different points around the classroom. The children found that it was very important to be clear and precise in their instructions.
Next, it was time to put their skills to the test using beebots. The children started by exploring how the same instructions could produce different outcomes if they were given in a different order. They discovered that the order of the instructions was very important. They used this information to help them to program the beebots on the beebot app.
After that, the children used their knowledge of algorithms to help them to predict where a beebot would end up on a grid after following an algorithm. They made predictions and then used paper bots to identify whether or not their predictions were correct. It was quite challenging to identify where the beebot would end up but the children persevered and found that they became more accurate in their predictions over time.
Article 28: We all have the right to a good quality education.
