Computer Programming I - SSS 2 plan

LESSON PLAN

Subject	Digital Technologies
Class	SSS 2
Term	Second Term
Week	1
Topic	Computer Programming I
Subtopics	Algorithms; characteristics of a good algorithm; introduction to flowcharts; common flowchart symbols.
Duration	80 Minutes (Double Period)
Date	________________________

Learning Objectives

By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:

1. Define an algorithm.
2. Explain the importance of algorithms in problem-solving and programming.
3. Identify the characteristics of a good algorithm.
4. Explain the meaning of a flowchart.
5. Identify common flowchart symbols and state their uses.
6. Draw a simple flowchart for a familiar problem.

Teaching Aids

• Computer system
• Whiteboard and markers
• Flowchart diagrams
• Projector, where available
• Sample algorithms
• Flowchart symbol charts

Previous Knowledge

Students have previously encountered computer problem-solving procedures and basic programming concepts. They can follow simple step-by-step instructions in everyday activities.

Presentation Steps

Time	Stage	Teacher's Activities	Students' Activities
10 mins	Introduction	Introduces the topic by asking students how they would explain the steps for performing a familiar task such as making tea, preparing food or calculating the sum of two numbers. Connects their responses to step-by-step problem solving.	Respond to questions and give examples of activities that require instructions to be followed in a particular order.
15 mins	Algorithms	Explains the meaning of an algorithm and its importance in programming and problem-solving. Gives examples of simple algorithms, including adding two numbers.	Listen, ask questions and identify the steps involved in simple everyday tasks.
10 mins	Characteristics of a Good Algorithm	Explains characteristics such as clarity, definiteness, finiteness, proper order and effectiveness. Discusses why unclear or incomplete instructions can produce poor results.	Identify and explain characteristics of a good algorithm. Compare clear instructions with unclear instructions.
10 mins	Introduction to Flowcharts	Defines a flowchart and explains how it represents an algorithm visually. Demonstrates how arrows show the direction of a process.	Observe the flowchart examples and explain the relationship between an algorithm and its flowchart.
15 mins	Flowchart Symbols	Introduces the terminator, process, input/output, decision, flow line and connector symbols. Explains the purpose of each symbol and demonstrates their use.	Identify the symbols, state their functions and copy or draw the symbols in their notebooks.
10 mins	Practical Activity	Guides students to write an algorithm for determining whether a student's score is a pass or fail. Demonstrates how the algorithm can be represented using a flowchart.	Write the algorithm and draw a simple flowchart using the appropriate symbols.
5 mins	Evaluation & Conclusion	Asks oral questions about algorithms, flowcharts and their symbols. Summarises the major points and corrects misconceptions.	Answer questions, participate in the review and state the main points learned.
5 mins	Assignment	Gives students an assignment to write an algorithm for finding the sum of three numbers and draw its corresponding flowchart.	Record the assignment and ask questions where necessary.

Evaluation Questions

1. What is an algorithm?
2. State three characteristics of a good algorithm.
3. What is a flowchart?
4. Name four common flowchart symbols.
5. What is the purpose of a decision symbol?

Assignment

Write an algorithm for finding the sum of three numbers and draw a flowchart representing the algorithm. Label the flowchart symbols used.