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Term 3 · Weeks 17–24

Detecting invisible hazards, reporting on visual displays and the core rule-engine loop modes. Each lesson includes its full classroom material, activity and challenge.

Algorithmic Thinking & Flowcharts

Week 20 Term 3 45-60 minutes

Learning Objective

Understand the concept of algorithms as step-by-step instructions. Master conditional logic (IF-THEN-ELSE) through flowcharting, preparing for the creation of automation rules.

Theory: Thinking Like a Computer

What is an Algorithm?

An algorithm sounds like a big scary word, but it's really just a fancy word for a "recipe" or a "set of instructions". Computers are very fast, but they are not smart on their own. They need exact, step-by-step instructions to do anything. If you miss a step, the computer will get confused!

Think of a recipe for baking a cake:
1. Mix flour and sugar.
2. Add eggs.
3. Bake at 180°C for 30 minutes.
If you bake it for 3 hours instead of 30 minutes, you get charcoal! An algorithm must be precise.

The Magic of IF-THEN-ELSE

Computers make decisions using a special trick called IF-THEN-ELSE. It works just like decisions in real life!

IF (It is raining outside)
   THEN (Take an umbrella)
ELSE
   THEN (Wear sunglasses)

For Teachers

Computational thinking is a critical 21st-century skill. This lesson helps students transition from manually turning a knob to autonomously setting rules for the MakerBuddy.

Activity: The Human Algorithm

Before we program the MakerBuddy, let's program a human! We will create a flowchart for a daily routine.

Materials Needed:

  • Paper and pencils
  • Or A whiteboard/blackboard

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Choose a Routine: Pick a simple daily task like "Getting Ready for School".
  2. Identify the Start: Draw an Oval labeled "START".
  3. List Actions: Write down the steps in rectangles.
  4. Add Decisions: Add at least one Diamond shape for a decision (e.g. "Is it raining?").
  5. End the Flowchart: Finish with an Oval labeled "END".
  6. "Run" the Program: Have a partner act out the steps exactly as written!

Challenge: The Smart Home Architect

Design a Smart System

Now apply your flowchart skills to the MakerBuddy IoT Kit components. Be creative!

Scenario 1: The Smart Fan

Goal: Keep the room cool but save energy.

  • Input: Temperature Sensor (DHT11)
  • Output: Fan (Relay)
  • Condition: If Temp > 28°C, Turn Fan ON. Else, Turn Fan OFF.
  • Task: Draw the flowchart for this system.

Scenario 2: The Security Light

Goal: Light up the porch only when someone is there AND it is dark.

  • Inputs: Motion Sensor (PIR) and Light Sensor (LDR)
  • Output: Light (LED)
  • Task: Draw a flowchart with two decision diamonds, then combine them with AND. The Rule Engine can place both sensor tests inside one Condition rule — you will build this exact security light in Week 27.

Coming Up Next Week:

Week 21: The Rule Engine & The 4 Loop Modes