Algorithms & Programming

• Individuals develop and follow directions as part of daily life.

• A sequence of steps can be expressed as an algorithm that a computer can process.

• Real world information can be stored and manipulated in programs as data (e.g., numbers, words, colors, images).

• Computers follow precise sequences of steps that automate tasks.

• Complex tasks can be broken down into simpler instructions, some of which can be broken down even further.

• People work together to develop programs for a purpose, such as expressing ideas or addressing problems.

• The development of a program involves identifying a sequence of events, goals, and expected outcomes, and addressing errors (when necessary).

Different algorithms can achieve the same result.

• Some algorithms are more appropriate for a specific use than others.

• Programming languages provide variables, which are used to store and modify data.

• A variety of control structures are used to change the flow of program execution (e.g., sequences, events, loops, conditionals).

• Programs can be broken down into smaller parts to facilitate their design, implementation, and review. Programs can also be created by incorporating smaller portions of programs that already exist.

• Individuals develop programs using an iterative process involving design, implementation, testing, and review.

Individuals design algorithms that are reusable in many situations.

• Algorithms that are readable are easier to follow, test, and debug.

• Programmers create variables to store data values of different types and perform appropriate operations on their values.

• Control structures are selected and combined in programs to solve more complex problems.

• Programs use procedures to organize code and hide implementation details. Procedures can be repurposed in new programs. Defining parameters for procedures can generalize behavior and increase reusability.

• Individuals design and test solutions to identify problems taking into consideration the diverse needs of the users and the community.

• Individuals evaluate and select algorithms based on performance, reusability, and ease of implementation.

• Programmers choose data structures to manage program complexity based on functionality, storage, and performance trade-offs.

• Trade-offs related to implementation, readability, and program performance are considered when selecting and combining control structures.

• Complex programs are designed as systems of interacting modules, each with a specific role, coordinating for a common overall purpose. Modules allow for better management of complex tasks.

• Complex programs are developed, tested, and analyzed by teams drawing on the members’ diverse strengths using a variety of resources, libraries, and tools.