Classroom Notes: 1.1 Flowcharts
Q1) What is Computational Thinking?
Computational thinking is a way of solving problems step by step, using a computer.
Q2) What are the steps involved in computational thinking?
Steps in Computational Thinking:
- Decomposition - Break a big problem into smaller parts.
- Pattern Recognition - Find similarities or repeated ideas.
- Abstraction - Focus only on the important details, ignore the rest.
- Algorithm Design - Create clear step-by-step instructions to solve the problem.
Q3) What is an Algorithm?
An algorithm is a clear set of step by step instructions to solve a problem listed in a proper order.
Q4) What is a Flowchart?
A flowchart is a diagram that represents a algorithm using different shapes and flowlines or arrows.
Q5) List the shapes of flowchart and what they represent:
- Oval (Terminator): Represents the Start or End of a process.
- Rectangle (Process): Represents an action, operation, or calculation. It shows a step where something is actively being done.
- Diamond (Decision): Represents a checkpoint or question with two or more outcomes (usually Yes/No or True/False). The path taken depends on the answer.
- Parallelogram (Input/Output): Represents receiving data or displaying results. Input is getting data from a user or sensor, while Output is presenting data.
- Arrows (Flowlines): Connect the symbols to show the direction and sequence of execution from start to finish.
Q6) How to follow a Flowchart?
- Start at the top oval labeled "Start."
- Follow the arrows line by line to move from shape to shape.
- Do what each shape says:
- Parallelogram: Enter or view data.
- Rectangle: Do an action or calculation.
- Diamond: Answer the question (Yes/No) and take that specific path.
- Stop at the bottom oval labeled "End."
Q7) What is a variable?
A variable is a named storage location in a computer's memory that holds a value or piece of data.
Q8) Please convert the below algorithms into flowcharts:
Algorithm 1: Make a Glass of Lemon Juice
1. Start
2. Take a glass
3. Add water
4. Add lemon juice
5. Add sugar
6. Stir well
7. Drink
8. End
Algorithm 2: Find the Largest of Two Numbers
2. Take a glass
3. Add water
4. Add lemon juice
5. Add sugar
6. Stir well
7. Drink
8. End
1. Start
2. Read two numbers (A and B)
3. If A > B
Print "A is largest"
Else
Print "B is largest"
4. End
2. Read two numbers (A and B)
3. If A > B
Print "A is largest"
Else
Print "B is largest"
4. End