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Coding · Grade 6

Algorithms, Pseudocode and Tracing

Learners discover what makes an algorithm precise, ordered and finite by programming a library delivery robot, then plan algorithms in simple pseudocode. They learn to trace step by step with a trace table, and to debug by finding the first line where a traced value goes wrong.

  • 4 lessons
  • About 75 minutes
  • Check what you learned: 8 questions
  • Ways to answer: program with blocks, choose an answer, put code in order, trace code, highlight a text and type a number
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What learners will discover

  • Explain what makes an algorithm precise, ordered and finite, and spot ambiguous instructions.
  • Put algorithm steps in a working order and write simple pseudocode using SET, INPUT and OUTPUT.
  • Trace pseudocode with a trace table, recording each variable's value as it changes.
  • Find and fix a mistake in an algorithm by tracing it with a known example.

Lessons

  1. What makes an algorithm? 6 steps3 practiceabout 18 min
  2. Sequences and pseudocode 6 steps3 practiceabout 18 min
  3. Tracing with a trace table 6 steps3 practiceabout 20 min
  4. Debugging an algorithm 5 steps3 practiceabout 18 min
  5. Check what you learned 8 questions at the end

Keep exploring

Games to practice with

  • Robot RoutesSnap together arrow, repeat and dance blocks to guide Bolt the robot home.
  • Bug DetectiveA robot program almost works. Run it, spot the buggy block, and fix it.
  • Sorting FactoryTurn a work order into if/else rules and watch the conveyor sort every item.

More 6th grade coding

Guide for grown-ups