To understand that algorithms are a set of instructions that complete a task. To understand that computers work by following a set of instructions called a program.
Today you are going to follow a set of instructions to draw a picture of a monster. You can do this task on your computer using Paint or you can do an unplugged version using paper and a pencil.
Have each player partner up with another player. Each player must sit side by side on their computers, but they must turn their computer screens so they cannot see what one another are drawing.
Explain that one person (the Artist) will draw a monster using only simple shapes and lines. The other player (the Apprentice) cannot look while he is doing it. When the Artist is done, he must give the Apprentice verbal directions on how to draw his picture. The Artist may not look at the Apprentice’s work while he is drawing. When the Apprentice is finished, the two players compare their drawings. They can then switch roles and play again.
Example
1. Draw a medium-sized circle in the middle of your paper.
2. Draw a medium-sized square below the circle but have the top of it touch the bottom of the circle.
3. Draw a medium-sized heart in the square.
4. Draw two smaller rectangles, one on each side of the square.
5. Draw a medium-sized triangle above the circle. The bottom of the triangle should touch the top of the circle.
6. Draw three small stars anywhere inside the triangle.
7. Draw a small triangle in the center of the medium-sized circle.
8. Draw an arc which curves up below the small triangle.
9. Draw two small circles above the small triangle, one slightly to the right and one slightly to the left.
10. Done.
