Lesson Plan | Technical Methodology | Algorithms and Problems: Medium

Objectives

Duration: 10 - 15 minutes

The purpose of this stage of the lesson plan is to ensure that students understand the fundamental concepts of algorithms and their practical application in problem-solving. This is essential for developing practical skills that are highly valued in the job market, especially in fields related to technology and engineering. By learning to create and interpret flowcharts, students will be able to visualize and solve problems in a structured and efficient manner.

Main Objectives

1. Understand the importance of algorithms in solving logical problems.

2. Develop the ability to create and interpret flowcharts.

3. Apply algorithm concepts to check if a number is even.

Side Objectives

1. Encourage critical thinking and analytical skills.
2. Promote collaboration and teamwork.

Introduction

Duration: 10 - 15 minutes

The purpose of this stage of the lesson plan is to spark students' interest in the subject, contextualizing the importance of algorithms in everyday life and the job market. This will help connect theoretical content with practical applications, making learning more relevant and engaging.

Contextualization

Algorithms are present in almost every area of our modern lives, from simply choosing the fastest route on GPS to the complex data analysis in large companies. The ability to solve problems and create efficient solutions is an essential skill in today's world, where technology plays a central role. Understanding how algorithms work and how they can be applied in different contexts is a fundamental step to becoming a competent and innovative professional.

Curiosities and Market Connection

Did you know that companies like Google and Facebook use algorithms to personalize the content you see? Additionally, algorithms are fundamental for the development of artificial intelligences, such as virtual assistants and recommendation systems. Professionals with algorithm skills are in high demand in sectors such as technology, finance, and engineering, where the ability to solve complex problems efficiently is crucial.

Initial Activity

To start the class, show a short video (3-5 minutes) about how algorithms influence our daily lives and ask students to think of an example of an algorithm they use daily, such as navigation apps or social networks. Then, ask some students to share their examples with the class.

Development

Duration: 40 - 50 minutes

The purpose of this stage of the lesson plan is to ensure that students can apply the theoretical concepts of algorithms in practical and visual activities. Through collaborative challenges and individual exercises, students will develop a deeper and more practical understanding of algorithms and flowcharts, essential skills in the job market.

Covered Topics

1. Definition and importance of algorithms
2. Steps for building algorithms
3. Interpretation and creation of flowcharts
4. Algorithms to check if a number is even

Reflections on the Theme

Guide students to reflect on how algorithms facilitate the resolution of complex problems in daily life. Discuss how creating a flowchart can help visualize and structure a problem more clearly and efficiently, and how these skills are valued in the job market.

Mini Challenge

Maker Challenge: Building a Flowchart

Students will be divided into groups and challenged to create a flowchart that describes the process of checking if a number is even. They should use paper, colored pens, and post-its to represent each step of the algorithm in a visual and organized manner.

Instructions

1. Divide the class into groups of 4-5 students.
2. Provide materials such as paper, colored pens, and post-its for each group.
3. Explain that they need to create a flowchart that represents the algorithm to check if a number is even.
4. Encourage students to discuss and plan each step of the algorithm before they start drawing.
5. Ask each group to present their flowchart to the class, explaining each step of the process.

Objective: Develop teamwork skills, critical thinking, and the ability to create visual solutions for algorithmic problems.

Duration: 25 - 30 minutes

Evaluation Exercises

1. Ask students to individually create a written algorithm describing the process of checking if a number is even.
2. Request that each student draw a flowchart of the algorithm they created.
3. Propose an extra challenge: Ask students to modify the algorithm to check if a number is odd.

Conclusion

Duration: 10 - 15 minutes

The purpose of this stage of the lesson plan is to ensure that students consolidate the acquired knowledge, reflecting on the importance of algorithms and flowcharts. This will help solidify the concepts and understand their practical applications, reinforcing the relevance of the content for everyday life and the job market.

Discussion

Promote an open discussion where students can share their experiences and reflections on the class. Ask them to comment on how creating flowcharts helped in visualizing algorithms and solving problems. Inquire how they see the application of these concepts in daily life and the job market. Encourage them to talk about the challenges faced during the group activity and how they overcame those obstacles.

Summary

Summarize the main content presented: the definition and importance of algorithms, the steps for building algorithms, the interpretation and creation of flowcharts, and the application of algorithms to check if a number is even. Reinforce the connection between the theory presented and the practical activities carried out, highlighting how each stage contributed to the understanding of the topic.

Closing

Explain the importance of algorithms in daily life, highlighting their applications in various fields, such as technology, finance, and engineering. Emphasize how the ability to create and interpret flowcharts is valued in the job market, as it allows for the visualization and structured solution of complex problems. Encourage students to continue exploring the world of algorithms and to apply this knowledge in their everyday lives and future careers.