Context of the Standard

Algorithms are commonly used in school and at home as students engage in step-by-step activities that are done on a routine basis. Students can create algorithms as they describe and sequence tasks that are part of daily activities.  Students can also use loops to repeat steps when a task requires a repeated action or actions.  In third grade, the construction of loops becomes more complex as students use a wide variety of patterns to include repeating and growing patterns.  In a repeating pattern the units of the pattern repeat and remain the same.  In a growing pattern, an addition is added to the pattern causing the pattern to change every time it repeats.  Growing patterns involve a progression from step to step which make them more difficult for students than repeating patterns.

In fourth grade, algorithms become more complex through the addition of variables.  Variables in a computer program are analogous to "Buckets" or "Envelopes" where information can be maintained and referenced. On the outside of the bucket is a name. When referring to the bucket, we use the name of the bucket, not the data stored in the bucket.  Many programming languages provide variables, which are used to store and modify data. The data type determines the values and operations that can be performed on that data.

In fourth grade, understanding how to use variables to conduct number calculations (e.g., addition, subtraction, multiplication and division) is sufficient. Manipulation on non-numeric data types is not expected.

Essential Skills

Essential Questions

Essential Vocabulary

Students should demonstrate these skills:

• Identify and describe algorithms used to accomplish a variety of tasks.
• Describe when a variable can be used.
• Identify a variable in an algorithm.
• Construct algorithms that use loops and variables.
• Apply the use of variables in a math calculation.

Students should investigate these concepts:

• What are the kinds of tasks that you can write an algorithm to complete?
• What is a variable?
• Why do we use variables in algorithms?
• How can you write an algorithm to complete basic mathematical calculations?

Students should apply these terms in context:

• Algorithm
• Loop
• Variable