Flowcharts and algorithms
This unit from the Continuing Mathematics Project on flowcharts and Algorithms employs, three basic conventions:
(i) the use of a flowchart and the appropriate symbols
(ii) the use of computer statements, such as 'c = c + I1
(iii) the use of the inequality signs >, <, ≤ and ≥
Three very short programmes at the start of the unit are intended to help students if they are not familiar with the above conventions.
The objectives for the unit are that students will be able:
(i) to recognise in a flowchart the symbols for a START or END box, a PROCESS box, a DECISION box, and a CONNECTOR box;
(ii) to follow a flowchart of elementary difficulty using these four symbols, and the convention for DECISION boxes described in the unit;
(iii) to understand and use elementary statements of inequality, using the symbols >, < ≥and ≤.
(iv) to substitute values for the variables in elementary computer statements such as 'c = c + 1'
(v) to use algorithms, given in flowchart form, for the construction of some 'magic squares', obtaining square roots by an iterative method, and solving quadratic equations.
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