) Computational Thinking et #RoadMap Discuss the concept of computational thinking Identify the components of computational thinking Analyse and solve problems using computational thinking approach Discuss the use of algorithms Don't worry son! No problem is difficult if you analyse the problem and follow a methodical ‘approach. Come let me tell you more about this. COMPUTATIONAL THINKING Computational thinking is an approach that enables us to solve any problem through an analytical and methodical approach. It is a problem-solving process that focusses on logical and critical thinking. Dad, | have to prepare areport suggesting ways and means to reduce the use of plastic in school. | just don't know what to do. It seems too big a problem for me. Computational thinking approach is useful for computer programmers as it helps them develop efficient computer programs or software. However, this approach is useful for everyone and can be applied for problem solving in everyday life. Let us learn more about it in detail. PEN PLC ec me Oe Hees Eee ak naieteallSignificance of Computational Thinking Computational thinking approach helps in breaking down a complex problem into parts and develop possible solutions for it. This approach proves useful in handling simple tasks such as solving puzzles to handling difficult tasks such as developing software. Some of the features of computational thinking approach are: + Itis a fundamental skill useful in everyday life. + Itis a problem-solving process. + Ithelps in breaking a problem into parts and finding a pattern. + Ithelps in designing efficient software systems. Components of Computational Thinking It has the following components: 1. Decomposition: Decomposition involves breaking down a problem into a series of small, more manageable problems. This makes complex problems easier to solve. 2. Pattern Recognition: Pattern recognition involves finding similarities, connections and observing patterns or trends. It is away to solve a new problem based on our past experience of handling problem of similar nature. Observing patterns makes it easy for us to solve problems. For example, the task of adding all numbers from 1 to 200 becomes easy when we are able to find a pattern We notice a pattern here: co The sum of the first and the last number, that is, 1 + 200 = 201. © The sum of the second and the second last number, that is, 2 + 199 = 201. o The sum of the third and the third last number, that is, 3 + 198 = 201. + BAtHence, the problem is now reduced to finding the sum of number 201 occurring 100 times, that is, 201 x 100 = 20100. 3. Abstraction: Abstraction involves focusing on the important points relevant to the problem and ignoring the irrelevant details. For example, when we ride a bicycle, we simply pedal the bicycle to move it without thinking about the working of the different internal parts that make up the bicycle. 4. Algorithm Design: Algorithm design involves developing a list of steps that can be followed to complete a task. Algorithm design is an important component of computational thinking. CASE STUDY ON COMPUTATIONAL THINKING Let us understand the computational thinking approach to accomplish the simple task of preparing a sandwich. Decomposition The task of making a sandwich can be broken down into the following main steps: 1. Decide on the type of sandwich-bread to be used and the desired filling. . Collect the ingredients. . Assemble the ingredients according to the recipe . Put the sandwich in a toaster or sandwich maker. oR WD . Observe the indicator lights on the sandwich maker to know when the sandwich is ready.Pattern Recognition You have seen your mother preparing multi-layered sandwiches, burgers and hot dogs. You draw similarities and identify patterns based on your experience of watching your mother prepare these recipes. Abstraction Sandwich makers or toasters are of various types. It could have different settings, grilling plates for different types of sandwiches. Here, the focus will just be on choosing the settings for making a tomato cheese sandwich. . The word algorithm is Algorithm derived from the name of 1. Spread butter ona slice a Persian mathematician, of bread. Al-Khwarizmi who worked ‘on algebra, arithmetic, astronomy and solving equations. . Add tomato slices to it . Add cheese. .. Put the second bread slice on top. . Heat the toaster. . Put the sandwich in the toaster for the required time. NOURWN The sandwich is ready. #SnapCheck . You have to arrange for your little sister's birthday party. Use computational thinking approach to develop a list of steps to be followed fora well-planned party. +At | Peace oeeecs ag anaes a iedccilncdedeiallALGORITHM DESIGN An algorithm is a list of well-defined steps or instructions for completing a task systematically. As discussed earlier, it is a very important component of computational thinking. An algorithm helps us to think logically to find out the best way to solve a problem and reach the solution Algorithms are used in everyday life as well as in the field of computer programming. A well-written algorithm is the first step towards developing good program. Let us consider a few examples of writing an algorithm Problem 1: To make chilled mango shake. Algorithm: 1. Cut mango into pieces. . Transfer mango into the blender jar. . Add milk, sugar and ice cubes. . Switch on the blender. . Blend until the mixture turns smooth and creamy. . Pour it into the glass. Garnish it with almonds and ice cream. . Serve it cold. ONATAWH Similarly, an algorithm could also be written to list the steps required to solve a problem on a computer. Sia ke a ae peiindpee eeProblem 2: To find the total amount after accepting the price and quantity. Algorithm: 1. Take Price of the item. 2. Take Quantity of the item 3. Find the Total Amount (Price x Quantity). 4. Display the total amount. In real life, applications frorn search engines to social RY networking sites, make use of algorithms to generate results based on past choices made by the user. Computational Thinking: A problem-solving process that uses analytical and methodical approach and involves decomposition, pattern recognition, abstraction and algorithm design. Algorithm: A list of well- defined instructions for completing a task. #THR(O)WBACK Suku en ial Patter it Decomposition ma oes Algorithm Recognition Design + Bt | Aistalesccea steleetiaan Seaoatiseas ful#LetUs &@ & A. Tick (VW) the correct answer. 1. Which of the following is not a component of the computational thinking approach? a. Decomposition b. Abstraction cc. Programming d. Pattern Recognition 2. Which computational thinking component involves breaking down a complex problem into smaller manageable parts? a. Abstraction b. Pattern Recognition cc. Algorithm d. Decomposition 3. What is the purpose of pattern recognition in the computational thinking approach? a. It helps in drawing similarities and connections. b. It helps to learn from our past experience of handling similar problems. c. Ithelps us to focus on important points ignoring the irrelevant details. d. Both (a) and (b). 4. Identify the incorrect statement about algorithms. a. It is the patterns and trends used to solve a problem b. It is a list of well-defined instructions for completing a task. Cc. Itis used in everyday life as well as in the field of computer programming. d. Awell-written algorithm is the first step towards developing a good program. B. Here are some problems related to pattern recognition. Tick (W) the correct answer. 1. SCD, TEF, UGH, ?, WKL a. CMN b. UJI ec. VU d. UT t Bt2. Find the odd one out. a. Tulip —_b. Rose c. Bud d. Daisy 3. Which shape will replace the '?’ mark? a q ee ell eels ‘lee ° ee! ellecle A oO e I il} Ml Vv ee a. Il b. IV ot d. Ill x a. il b. Il c IV C. Consider the given algorithm and answer the following questions. Step 1. Take a number from the user. Step 2. If the number is divisible by 2, display value obtained by dividing the number by 2 Step 3. If the number is not divisible by 2, display value obtained by multiplying number by 2. 1. What will be the output when the number given by user is 100? 2. What will be the output when the number given by user is 53? D. Answer the following questions. 4. Define computational thinking 2. Explain the various components of computational thinking. 3. What is an algorithm? + At | or econ Core re EON 9 ce-supan 2121 rum . Consider the map that shows the tourist attractions in a city and the roads that connect them. Find a route for the tourists in such away that they start from the hotel and cover all the attractions. The tourists should not pass through the same place twice and should end up back at the hotel after covering all attractions. Hotel B “ 5 3 | Old fort Bird Pork, i Fay 14 ¢ | Woon \ Majestic New Sree ean \ Palace‘ City / \ Mall. / Ne tienen eee 11 | Heritage Park 107 Zoo eo 242 #OpenForum ‘A goal without a plan is just a wish:—Antoine de Saint-Exupery. Aclass discussion can be conducted on the ‘Importance of Planning: a. #HyperLink Time Management and planning are two important life skills. Ask students to design a poster on the importance of these skills in a students’ life. + Bt a mea peiceesea eee a iooeati pe aeese eatsreul