Computational Thinking Challenge

What is an algorithm?

• An algorithm is a type of computer virus

• An algorithm is a step-by-step procedure or formula for solving a problem or accomplishing a task.

• An algorithm is a type of programming language

• An algorithm is a type of mathematical equation

Explain the concept of abstraction in computational thinking.

• Abstraction is the process of removing unnecessary details and focusing on the important parts of a problem.

• Abstraction is the process of adding unnecessary details to a problem.

• Abstraction is the process of simplifying a problem by adding complexity.

• Abstraction is the process of focusing on all details equally in a problem.

How does decomposition help in problem-solving?

• Decomposition does not impact problem-solving in any way.

• Decomposition breaks down complex problems into smaller, more manageable parts.

• Decomposition makes problems more complex by adding unnecessary steps.

• Decomposition combines unrelated problems into one big issue.

Give an example of pattern recognition in everyday life.

• Recognizing shapes

• Recognizing faces

• Identifying colors

• Remembering phone numbers

What does algorithmic efficiency refer to?

• Algorithmic efficiency refers to the size of the algorithm

• Algorithmic efficiency refers to the taste of the algorithm

• Algorithmic efficiency refers to how well an algorithm performs in terms of time and space complexity.

• Algorithmic efficiency refers to the color of the algorithm

What is the importance of debugging in programming?

• Debugging only slows down the development process

• Errors in code should be left as they are

• Debugging helps in identifying and fixing errors in the code.

• Debugging is not necessary in programming

Describe a scenario where you would use a sorting algorithm.

• Sorting a list of animals by weight

• Sorting a list of employee names

• Sorting a list of student grades

• Sorting a list of grocery items by price

How can you improve the efficiency of an algorithm?

• Using inefficient data structures

• Adding unnecessary complexity

• Ignoring time complexity

• Optimize the code, use appropriate data structures, implement efficient algorithms, and reduce time and space complexity.

What are some common debugging techniques?

• Ignoring the issue, hoping it goes away

• Print statements, breakpoints, stepping through code, analyzing error messages, rubber duck debugging

• Asking a friend who knows nothing about coding

• Sleeping, eating, exercising

Discuss the role of abstraction in writing efficient algorithms.

• Abstraction complicates algorithm design

• Abstraction plays a crucial role in writing efficient algorithms by simplifying the design and implementation process.

• Abstraction has no impact on algorithm efficiency

• Abstraction only works for simple algorithms