Computational Thinking Discussion Prompts and Pause Points

Before the Movie

What do you know about computational thinking? 

Where have you seen the word algorithm used before?

During the Movie (Pause Points)

Stop at the following times in the movie and ask questions or prompt a discussion to keep students focused and to assess their understanding before moving on:

Timecode 2:07: Why is it  important to understand each separate component of computational thinking? 

Timecode 4:42: What’s the difference between quantitative and qualitative data?

Timecode 5:49: Why is it important that algorithms be clear and precise? 

Timecode 7:31: What’s the relationship between iterations and writing an algorithm?

After the Movie

Have you ever written an algorithm without knowing it? Give examples. 

Look at the four related movies at the bottom of the page. Explain how each is connected to Computational Thinking. 

BrainPOP recommends reading the movie description that appears on the Computational Thinking Topic Page to your class. Then show the movie once through without pausing.  Watch it again, this time using the discussion prompts.

*BrainPOP’s Discussion Questions and Prompts align to CCSS Speaking and Listening Standards.