Algorithms: Vocabulary
For secondary school learners
(age 11-16)
Live
Using the vocabulary slides
Algorithm
Secondary
A series of precise instructions that end when the problem is solved.
Abstraction
A simplified representation of something more complex identifying what is important.
�Source: https://code.org/curriculum/docs/k-5/glossary
Primary
Secondary
Debugging
Finding and fixing errors in your algorithm.
Primary
Secondary
Decomposition
Breaking a problem down into smaller parts that are easier to understand and program.
An algorithm can be created for each part.
Primary
Secondary
Efficiency of algorithms
The time or resources required to carry out an algorithm.
Some algorithms are more efficient than others.
Secondary
Flowchart
A visual representation of an algorithm or program.
Primary
Secondary
Input
Input is data sent to a computer system from devices such as a keyboard, mouse, microphone, camera or physical sensor.
Primary
Secondary
Instructions
The individual steps in the algorithm that explain what to do.
Primary
Secondary
Iteration
Iteration in programming means repeating steps, or instructions, over and over again. This is often called a ‘loop’.
Secondary
Loop
A piece of code or instruction in an algorithm that repeats.
Primary
Secondary
Output
Output is data or information communicated from a computer system to the outside world via various devices.
Primary
Secondary
Pseudocode
Writing a set of instructions for a computer program in plain English
IF spaceship touches asteroid:
Show explosion
Play sound
Lives -1
END IF
Secondary
Selection
When a computer executes instructions if a particular condition is met or not.
https://www.barefootcomputing.org/
Primary
Secondary
Sequencing
Sequencing is the specific order in which instructions are performed in an algorithm
Primary
Secondary
Variable
A value held under one name, known as an identifier. The value can change during the execution of the algorithm.
Secondary