Working with Algorithms POWERPOINT is the perfect tool for introducing students to the concept of an algorithm in a clear, practical and relatable way. This PowerPoint explores what algorithms are, how they’re used in everyday life, and how they form the basis of logical, step-by-step thinking in maths and beyond.

Designed for use with early primary learners, this resource helps students make connections between abstract concepts and real-life experiences. Whether it’s brushing teeth, making toast, or drawing a picture, students begin to see how algorithms are all around them!

Use this PowerPoint for explicit teaching during whole-class sessions or as part of small group instruction. It’s a flexible and accessible way to lay the foundation for future learning in digital technologies and computational thinking.

Key Learning Outcomes:

• ✅ Understand what an algorithm is and its purpose
• ✅ Identify everyday examples of simple algorithms
• ✅ Follow and describe sequences of steps to complete a task
• ✅ Build foundational skills for computational thinking and problem solving
• ✅ Apply logical reasoning to sequence events correctly

What’s Included:

• Informative PowerPoint presentation introducing algorithms
• Real-world examples of step-by-step processes
• Discussion questions to engage student thinking and connection
• Clear and simple visuals to support understanding

Materials Needed:

• PowerPoint-compatible device with classroom display
• Whiteboard or chart paper for shared algorithm modelling
• Optional: printed task cards or templates for follow-up practice

How to Use:

1. Introduce the PowerPoint and discuss the term “algorithm” with your class.
2. Use each slide to explore a real-life example or problem-solving scenario.
3. Encourage students to brainstorm other examples of everyday algorithms.
4. Pause for discussion or group work where students create their own simple step-by-step tasks.
5. Revisit the presentation as a refresher before unplugged algorithm activities or writing tasks.

Ideas for Classroom Use:

• 💡 Use during a digital technologies block or STEM session
• 💡 Pair with unplugged tasks where students write their own life algorithms
• 💡 Display slide examples during writing sessions to link to procedural texts
• 💡 Incorporate into your maths unit when teaching sequencing or position
• 💡 Have students draw or act out their own algorithms after watching

Top Teacher Tips:

• 💛 Reinforce the term “algorithm” using everyday routines like lining up or packing up
• 💛 Encourage students to explain why the order of steps matters
• 💛 Link algorithms to visual schedules or morning routines for early learners
• 💛 Use this PowerPoint at the start of a coding unit to build foundational understanding
• 💛 Keep it accessible as a reference tool during follow-up unplugged algorithm activities

Working with Algorithms POWERPOINT provides a simple, structured and relatable way to introduce the concept of algorithms to young learners. It’s an ideal stepping stone into digital technologies, logical reasoning and everyday problem solving.

Looking for unplugged activities to reinforce this concept? Try our Drawing Shoes Algorithms worksheet, or get hands-on with A-maze-ing Algorithms Unplugged and Fairy Bread Algorithm Unplugged.