Step-by-step sequences and unplugged algorithms
Aligned to CSTA-AP — CSTA K-12 Computer Science Standards.
What this lesson teaches
An algorithm is just a list of steps to do something, in the right order. Computers and people follow steps one at a time, so the order really matters. If you mix up the steps, you can end up with a silly or wrong result.
Worked example
To wash your hands: 1) turn on the water, 2) add soap, 3) scrub, 4) rinse, 5) dry. If you dry your hands before you scrub, they would still be dirty! The order keeps the steps working.
Practice questions
- Put these in order: get a glass, pour the milk, drink the milk.
- Why does the order of steps matter?
- Say the steps for putting on your shoes, in order.
Watch the lesson
Every lesson comes with a video taught in English and Spanish — the same video the QR code in the printed workbook opens.
▶ Watch this lessonEn español
Secuencias paso a paso y algoritmos sin computadora
Un algoritmo es simplemente una lista de pasos para hacer algo, en el orden correcto. Las computadoras y las personas siguen los pasos uno a la vez, por eso el orden es muy importante. Si mezclas los pasos, puedes obtener un resultado gracioso o incorrecto.
Ejemplo: Para lavarte las manos: 1) abre la llave del agua, 2) pon jabón, 3) tállate, 4) enjuágate, 5) sécate. Si te secas antes de tallarte, ¡tus manos seguirían sucias! El orden hace que los pasos funcionen.
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