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Computing

Tell It Right: Sequencing a Story as an Algorithm

Overview

Students explore how putting steps in the wrong order changes the outcome of a task or story.

Learning Objective
Students understand that the order of steps (sequence) is important in algorithms.

Resources needed

  • No materials required
  • Optional: story prompts

Lesson stages

0 / 10 done
  1. 1 Introduce sequencing as putting steps in the correct order.
  2. 2 Give an example of a mixed-up story.
  3. 3 Students reorder the story correctly.
  4. 4 Discuss how order affects meaning.
  5. 5 In pairs, create a simple sequence (e.g. brushing teeth).
  6. 6 Swap with another pair.
  7. 7 Reorder each other’s sequences.
  8. 8 Check accuracy.
  9. 9 Discuss: what happens when steps are wrong?
  10. 10 Reflect on why sequence matters in computing.

Tap a step to mark it as done.

Variations

  • Use actions instead of stories.
  • Create longer sequences.
  • Combine with debugging tasks.
More information

Teach: sequence, order, step, first, next, last. Use frames: 'First… then…'.

Use pictures or actions instead of writing.

Can students arrange steps in the correct order? Can they explain why order matters?

Fully unplugged.

Students may think order does not affect outcome.

Sequencing is fundamental to programming and algorithm design.

Activity details
Primary Medium 25 minutes no prep Pairs, Small Group Indoor & Outdoor
Topics
Sequencing Algorithms Logic Order