Computing · Stage 1
Make an Algorithm
First Steps · ordered steps that finish a job = an algorithm
✦ Computing📘 Stage 1 · S1⏱ ~11 min🧒 Ages 5–6★ Free to start
make an algorithm: a complete list of ordered steps that finishes a job
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Kavi Learns a Big Word
"Ordered steps that get a job done have a special name," Kavi whispered. "An algorithm!" A recipe is an algorithm. Tying your shoe is an algorithm. "It's just a complete list of steps, in the right order," said Kavi. "If I leave a step out, the job doesn't finish. Let's make a good algorithm together."
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What your child will learn
1A good algorithm finishes the jobBoth lists try to make a cup of juice. Tap each to hear it. One finishes the job — the other leaves a step out, so the job isn't done.
2Spot the missing stepA computer only does the steps you write. If a step is missing, the job stops. Predict which step is missing, then reveal.
3An algorithm is ordered steps that finish the jobAn algorithm is a complete list of steps, in the right order, that gets a job done. Press Run — this algorithm washes an apple from start to finish. Every step is there, in order.
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A peek inside
Kavi's algorithm to draw a square with code: pen down · walk forward · turn right · repeat four times. Which step comes FIRST?
you can't draw until the pen is touching the paper
Try this at home: What is an algorithm?
Ready to play and learn?
Start the free interactive lesson, or print the handout for screen-free play.
Part of Computing · Stage 1 · S1 on KAVI Academy — a secular, whole-child learning platform for ages 5–12.