Logo programming - creating algorithms

Programming algorithms for drawing shapes

In this programming activity, students will use the programming language Logo to understand and create algorithms for drawing shapes. Through creating their own unique shapes via algorithms, students will see their code come to life on screen.

This is one of a set of resources developed to aid the teaching of the secondary national curriculum, particularly KS3. It has been designed to support the delivery of key topics within maths, engineering and computing.

Activity: Programming algorithms for drawing shapes
The first part of this activity is intended to encourage students to examine a sequence of instructions, look for a pattern, and explain this pattern. The next problem asks the students to continue the pattern, making deductions about how the pattern will continue. Students are then challenged to produce a set of instructions for drawing different shapes before trying some designs of their own. They will be encouraged to use an online logo app like Papert to try out their instructions. Problem-solving questions will stimulate students to identify and extend a sequence, requiring reasoning and proof.

The engineering context
Algorithms form the backbone of many engineering processes, from automation and improving efficiency to data analysis and problem solving. As such, learning about algorithms prepares students for more advanced engineering studies.

Pythagoras’ theorem and trigonometry are fundamental in multiple engineering fields such as civil engineering for structural design, electrical engineering for signal analysis, and mechanical engineering for understanding dynamics and mechanisms.

Suggested learning outcomes
This lesson plan aims to cover potential GCSE content such as identifying and explaining patterns and sequences, understanding the exterior angles of shapes, and applying Pythagoras and trigonometry. In the process, students will also develop key problem-solving skills as they predict sequences, work out instructions, and discuss their reasoning. This activity will also give students a deeper appreciation for the role of algorithms in our daily lives.

Download our activity sheet and other teaching resources
The activity sheet includes teachers’ notes, useful web links, and links (where appropriate) to the national curriculum in each of the four devolved nations; England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.

All activity sheets and supporting resources are free to download, and all the documents are fully editable, so you can tailor them to your students’ and your schools’ needs.

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