🎯 Aim
Today you will learn that computer simulations can represent real or imaginary situations.
💡 What is a Simulation?
A computer simulation is a program that copies a real-life or imaginary situation.
Simulations allow people to try things that might be too dangerous, too expensive or impossible to do in real life.
For example, pilots often practise flying using a simulator before flying a real plane.
✈️ Try a Flight Simulation
Use the flight simulator below. Can you safely control your aircraft?
How to play:
- Choose Free Flight Mode
- Select an aircraft
- Use the arrow keys to steer
- Try to take off and land safely
🚗 Another Example
Simulations can also copy everyday situations. Try this parking simulation.
Think carefully:
- What is this simulation copying?
- Why could this be useful?
- What skills does it help you practise?
🍕 Simulation Challenge
Some simulations copy jobs. In this game you will run your own pizzeria.
Can you follow the recipe carefully and make each pizza correctly?
💬 Think About It
Talk to your partner:
- Which simulation felt the most realistic?
- What did the computer pretend to be?
- Why are simulations useful?
📊 Success
Your learning today will be successful if you can:
- WTS: Say what a simulation is.
- EXS: Explain why simulations can be useful.
- GDS: Compare different types of simulations and explain which is most realistic.
What is a computer simulation?
A computer simulation is a program that imitates a real life scenario. Simulations let you make choices to try out things that might be too difficult, dangerous or expensive to do in real life.
For example, let's say Mrs. Klein fancies a change of career and would like to train as a pilot! It might be a good idea to let Mrs. Klein use a simulation first to see if she can control a plane.
Using the simulation below see if you can take-off, land and evade missiles! You need a steady hand and quick fingers – as some of the larger planes can be extremely difficult to control.
How to Play:
1. To start with press Free Flight Mode.
2. Left click on the plane of your choice.
3. Use the arrow keys to control your plane:
Up Arrow = Accelerate
Left & Right Arrows = Change Altitude
Down Arrow = Flip the plane upside-down
Running a Pizzeria Simulation
Have you ever wanted to run a pizzeria? Here's your chance! Make sure you follow the algorithm (or recipe) for making each pizza carefully. What happens if you make a mistake?
