LESSON PLAN 52: Designing Algorithms with Decisions (40 minutes)

LESSON PLAN 52: Designing Algorithms with Decisions (40 minutes)

Class: Grade 10

Subject: Computer Studies

Strand: 3.0 Software Development

Sub Strand: 3.1 Program Development Overview

Lesson Duration: 40 minutes

Date:

Key Inquiry Question (Starter)

“How do programs make choices?”

Specific Learning Outcomes

• Use decision symbols in flowcharts
• Write pseudocodes with conditional statements
• Design algorithms to solve real-life problems

Learning Experiences

• Use pseudocodes and flowcharts to solve real-life problems
• Write an algorithm on how traffic lights enhance road safety

Learning Resources

• Projector and computer
• Whiteboard and markers
• Computer Studies textbook (section on Decision Structures)
• PowerPoint slides: Conditional statements and decision flowcharts
• Printed handouts: Traffic light algorithm worksheet and practice problems
• Video clip: How traffic lights work (2 minutes)
• Chart paper for group work
• Markers and rulers
• Student exercise books

Lesson Structure

Introduction (5 min)

• Project quick symbol review quiz (interactive slides)
• Show video: Traffic light intersection in operation
• Question: “What decisions are being made at a traffic intersection?”

Development (30 min)

1. Project slide: Real-world decision-making scenarios
2. Introduce IF-THEN-ELSE concept with animated slides:
   • IF light is RED, THEN STOP
   • IF light is YELLOW, THEN PREPARE
   • IF light is GREEN, THEN GO
3. Students read textbook section on conditional statements (4 minutes)
4. Projected demonstration: Traffic light pseudocode with decision structure