Algorithm Inputs, Processes & Outputs (AQA GCSE Computer Science)

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James Woodhouse

Written by: James Woodhouse

Reviewed by: Lucy Kirkham

Algorithm Inputs, Processes & Outputs

  • Applying algorithmic thinking leads to a set of precise step-by-step instructions that can solve a problem

  • To create an algorithm, the inputs, processes and outputs must be identified

What is an input?

  • An input is data or information being entered/taken into a program before it is processed in the algorithm

  • An input can come from a variety of sources, such as:

    • User - keyboard, mouse, controller, microphone

    • Sensors - temperature, pressure, movement

What is a process?

  • A process is a doing action performed in the algorithm that transforms inputs into the desired output. The central processing unit (CPU) executes the instructions that define the process

  • An example would be:

    • Comparing two numbers

    • Calculating an average

What is an output?

  • An output is the result of the processing in an algorithm and usually the way a user can see if an algorithm works as intended

  • An output can take various forms, such as:

    • Numbers - result of calculations

    • Text

    • Images

    • Actions - triggering events

Example 1 - Area of a shape

  • A user wants to write a program to calculate the area of a shape

Input

Process

Output

  • Length

  • Width

  • Length X width

  • Area

Example 2 - Average test score

  • A teacher wants to calculate the average mark achieved on a test amongst students in a class. The teacher needs to enter how many students in the class and for each students a score out of 50

Input

Process

Output

  • Number of students

  • Score per student

  • TotalScore = TotalScore + score per student

  • Average = TotalScore / Number of students

  • Average mark

Worked Example

A bus company offers a discount to passengers if they have a valid 'student' card or are over 65 years of age.

Identify all the inputs that will be required in an algorithm to solve this problem [2]

Answer

  • Student card (YES/NO)

  • Age (integer)

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James Woodhouse

Author: James Woodhouse

Expertise: Computer Science

James graduated from the University of Sunderland with a degree in ICT and Computing education. He has over 14 years of experience both teaching and leading in Computer Science, specialising in teaching GCSE and A-level. James has held various leadership roles, including Head of Computer Science and coordinator positions for Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4. James has a keen interest in networking security and technologies aimed at preventing security breaches.

Lucy Kirkham

Author: Lucy Kirkham

Expertise: Head of STEM

Lucy has been a passionate Maths teacher for over 12 years, teaching maths across the UK and abroad helping to engage, interest and develop confidence in the subject at all levels.Working as a Head of Department and then Director of Maths, Lucy has advised schools and academy trusts in both Scotland and the East Midlands, where her role was to support and coach teachers to improve Maths teaching for all.