Computing At School
Network of Excellence CPD
Activity 4 – Algo-Rhythms
Resources:
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Lots of space
MP3 player and speakers/other music system
Dance-able songs e.g. Gangnam Style, Cha Cha Slide, Reach for the Stars, Wheels on the Bus, Wind the
Bobbin Up or nursery rhymes for little ones
Large sheets of flip chart, cartridge or sugar paper
Pens
Learning Objectives (from Computing At School Curriculum):
KS2 
Algorithms can be represented symbolically [flowcharts] or using instructions in a clearly defined
language [turtle graphics].
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Algorithms can include selection (if) and repetition (loops).
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Algorithms may be decomposed into component parts (procedures), each of which itself contains an
algorithm.
KS3 –
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An algorithm is a sequence of precise steps to solve a given problem.
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A single problem may be solved by several different algorithms.
Activity:
For this activity you will need to use plenty of space. Play a song to your students (you could show them a video too
if you wish).
Tell the students to get into groups of 4-6. Explain to them that they are going to design an algorithm for a dance.
Each group needs a sheet of paper and pens. Demonstrate how to draw a simple flowchart for a sequential set of
instructions (example below). In a dance routine, students will realise that instructions need to be repeated in a loop
(iteration) and sometimes, depending on a certain condition, one action will be performed or another action
(selection).
Students must now design a dance algorithm for a song. Choose a well-known song but students don’t need to copy
a dance from a video – they can design their own original “moves”. They will draw a flowchart of the dance.
Groups then swap flowcharts and the fun begins! Give each group a couple of minutes to look through the dance.
Start the music and let the first group take to the floor! Can they follow the algorithm successfully?
Some of the algorithms may be quite complex just like real programs. Students need to appreciate that a large
algorithm needs to be broken down into smaller ones.
Lead School:
The Stourport High School & VIth Form Centre
Master Teacher:
Christine Swan
([email protected])