SHS1 Computing · Semester 2 Week 5: Algorithm and Data Structure

Lesson notes

Learning Objectives

Indicator: 1.2.1.LI.1

By the end of the lesson, learners can:

Define data structures in their own words, giving at least one everyday example from their surroundings.
Explain at least three reasons why data structures are important for organising and manipulating data efficiently.
Identify and name common everyday situations in Ghana where data is organised using structures.
Give a simple analogy (such as a market, a school register, or a phone contact list) to illustrate what a data structure is and why it matters.
Discuss with peers, through think-pair-share and group discussion, how organised data helps in making quick and accurate decisions.

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Curriculum details

Strand: Computational Thinking (programming Logic) (Strand 2)
Sub-strand: Algorithm and Data Structure (2.1)
Content standard: 1.2.1.CS.1 - Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of Data Structures 1.2.1.LO.1 Apply knowledge of data structures to explain their real-life applications effectively.
Indicator: 1.2.1.LI.1 - Explain in detail the concepts of Data Structures and their importance in organising and manipulating data efficiently.
Suggested placement: Semester 2, Week 5 (Week 25 of the year)
Our suggestion, laid out in curriculum order across three terms of twelve weeks. NaCCA does not fix the week, so follow your school's scheme of learning.
Curriculum reference: NaCCA curriculum document, p. 37

Exemplars (from the NaCCA curriculum)

Problem-Based Learning: Brainstorm and discuss the importance and practical applications of data structures, providing examples to illustrate their relevance in different scenarios.
Group Work/Talk for Learning: Engage in collaborative activities such as think-pair-share or small group discussions to define data structures in their own words, promoting a deeper understanding through shared perspectives.
SEL: When teaching students about Data Structures and their importance, you can integrate Social Emotional Learning (SEL) principles to create an engaging and supportive learning experience. Here are some SEL features you can incorporate into this specific topic:
Self-awareness:
- provides opportunities for self-assessment of their skills and progress in applying these concepts to manipulate data.
- helps students to recognise their emotions and attitudes towards the topic, and support their self-confidence and self-efficacy.
Self-management:
- guides students in setting goals and planning their work
- fosters resilience and perseverance by supporting students in managing challenges and setbacks they may encounter during the learning process.
Social awareness:
- promotes collaborative learning by assigning group projects or activities to learners
- encourages students to share their knowledge and expertise with their peers, creating a supportive learning community.
Relationship skills:
- promotes teamwork and collaboration by encouraging students to work together to solve complex problems and share their insights and solutions.
- emphasises the value of giving and receiving constructive feedback.
Responsible decision-making:
- encourages learners to make informed decisions.
- encourages critical thinking and reflection.
Teaching and Learning Materials:
- * Notepad or exercise book * Pen * Smartphones * Laptops
- * Desktop computers * Tablets * TV and Radio * Open Educational Resources (including YouTube, MOOCs -
- Udemy/Coursera, Khan Academy, and TESSA)
- * The iBox/iCampus (CENDLOS) * Productivity tools ix. Subject-based application software * Instructional Laboratories (with multimedia equipment and smartboards) * Maintenance and repair workshops
Assessment (1.1.1.AS.1). The document marks these depth-of-knowledge levels for this indicator: Level 1 Recall.