Have you ever thought that some of your daily activities might be an algorithm? Just what is an algorithm?

According to Dictionary.com, an algorithm is a “process or set of rules to be followed in calculations or other problem-solving operations, especially by a computer.” Students in the 4th and 5th grades are learning about algorithms in their computer class. Before they can learn how to code on a computer, students must first learn what an algorithm is and how it works offline.

In order to learn more about this process, students followed a set of rules in card and dice games to calculate and score points. The rules involved many different problem-solving operations. After students finish learning about algorithms and other coding skills offline, they will apply those skills as they begin coding different programs on the computers over the next few weeks. Students said they enjoyed learning about algorithms this way. The young engineers can already see how this applies to computer coding and are eager to dive deeper into algorithms and coding.