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Queen Mary University of London
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These resources have been reviewed and selected by STEM Learning’s team of education specialists for factual accuracy and relevance to teaching STEM subjects in UK schools.
The Imp Computer
This unplugged activity from the CS4FN team uses two examples – an insulting computer and one that can play snap – to look at simple computer programming, flow of control and logic. Everything is provided for this front-of-class activity, which would act as an effective starter for a lesson on programming concepts.
A high-level program is ‘compiled’ into a series of low-level instructions, carried out by ‘imps’ as found in Terry Pratchett novels. Terms such as ‘compile time’ and ‘run time’ are explained while the activity, involving ropes and tubes, continues.
A detailed explanation is provided for the teacher of control flow and of the compilation process. Several extension activities are suggested for different student interests, along with further reading suggestions.
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Imp computer (teachers' notes) 2.19 MB -
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Imp computer (presentation) 168.5 KB
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