Clear instructions — Computing, 4–6 years
A computer cannot guess what we mean. It follows small instructions in the order we give them.
Small steps
A computer works by following instructions, one small step at a time. We can give instructions to a toy robot too: move forward, turn left, then stop. The order matters.
Why be exact?
People often fill in missing steps because they understand the goal. A computer does not know that we meant pick up the cup before pouring water. Exact instructions solve the problem of guessing.
Guide the robot
The robot is two squares from a star. First say: move forward two squares. Next say: pick up the star. If we say pick up first, the robot reaches empty space. Each instruction has a clear place.
The missing step
It is natural to say, go to the door, because a person knows how to get there. A robot may need forward, forward, turn, and forward. The mistake is reasonable: our brains quietly fill in the route.
Instructions everywhere
Recipes, building toys, and crossing a road all use steps. A recipe tells us what to do first and what comes next. Thinking in steps helps when a task has many parts.
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